The Iconic Hilton Hotel Nairobi Closes Its Doors After 53 Years

The iconic Hilton Hotel in Nairobi’s central business district has shut its doors permanently after 53 years of operation.

In April last year, International Hotels Kenya Limited which manages the hotel announced the facility would cease operations on December 31st.

“Following extensive discussions with the hotel ownership, Hilton Nairobi will close its doors for the last time on 31st December 2022 and cease operations,” a Hilton spokesperson said at the time.

The spokesperson clarified that the closure of the hotel was not entirely due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which saw many international luxury brands scale down operations or shut down outlets altogether.

“Covid-19 created unprecedented challenges for our industry. However, the decision to cease operations is not directly connected to the pandemic,” the representative added.

The closure will see some of the hotel’s employees laid off while others will be redeployed to its other two outlets within the city—Hilton Nairobi Hurlingham and Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi Airport.

“Unfortunately, the closure of the hotel will result in a retrenchment process. However, we will work with those impacted to help them find alternative employment,” the hotel added.

Located strategically at the heart of Nairobi city centre, Hilton began operations in 1969 and boasted 287 rooms including 45 twins, 185 doubles, seven suites, 22 pool rooms, and 27 executive rooms.

It had three restaurants, an American-themed coffee shop, two bars (indoor and outdoor) and a fully equipped gym facility with a spa, and heated swimming pool.

“The hotel has welcomed guests for more than 50 years. We are proud of the legacy of hospitality delivered and would like to thank all those who have contributed,” it added.

Hilton Nairobi hosted various international celebrities over the years including Sydney Poitier, Angelina Jolie and musician Sean Paul.

The Kenya government holds 40.57 percent of shareholding in its operator International Hotels Kenya Limited.