IHG® Hotels & Resorts has recently announced the signing of a franchise agreement with DIA SARL to introduce the premium voco brand in the Lebanese capital of Beirut.
The signing ceremony, held in Beirut and attended by H.E. Walid Nassar, Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism, solidifies voco Beirut Central District‘s transformation from a conversion property into a voco-branded hotel. By the end of this year, the hotel will add 123 rooms to IHG’s expanding portfolio in Lebanon.
With 46 operational hotels and more than 50 hotels in development, voco is a significant contributor to IHG’s overall growth in the conversion space worldwide.
voco is a distinctive brand that offers guests a premium experience, combining the personal touch and allure of an independent hotel with the quality and reassurance of a globally recognized brand. Since its global launch in 2018, voco has experienced rapid expansion, with numerous signings across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia (EMEAA), including markets such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt. The introduction of voco Beirut Central District marks the brand’s debut in the Levant region.
Strategically located in one of Beirut’s prominent areas, voco Beirut Central District will provide convenient access to popular attractions like the upscale F&B strip of Zaituna Bay, Beirut Waterfront, and Beirut Souks. In addition to luxurious guest rooms, the hotel will feature an outdoor pool, a rejuvenating spa, a well-equipped gym, a business center, a dedicated theater area, and four meeting rooms, including a banquet-style room. Culinary enthusiasts will have the opportunity to indulge in exceptional dining experiences at three restaurants and a rooftop bar.
voco Beirut Central District will also leverage the strength of IHG’s enterprise platform, redesigned app, and transformed loyalty program, IHG One Rewards, which boasts more than 115 million members.
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed excitement about the partnership with DIA SARL and the opening of voco Beirut Central District. He highlighted the company’s long-standing presence in Lebanon, including the opening of their first hotel, InterContinental Phoenicia, and their commitment to strengthening their footprint in the country. Mattar emphasized their dedication to delivering exceptional hospitality and creating unforgettable experiences for guests in Beirut, aligning with their ambition to enhance their offerings across key Middle Eastern markets.
Hani Sheet, Chairman of DIA SARL, shared his delight in joining the IHG family and introducing the voco brand to Lebanon. The partnership aligns with DIA SARL’s vision of offering upscale hospitality experiences in the country. With its prime location and outstanding facilities, voco Beirut Central District is poised to become a preferred destination for both local and international travelers seeking a premium hotel experience in the heart of Beirut.
The voco brand’s essence, characterized by “come on in,” “me time,” and “voco life,” is ingrained in the DNA of its hotels. From seamless check-ins and locally inspired welcome treats to spacious, comfortable beds and vibrant bar and restaurant spaces, voco brings a unique charm to every guest’s stay.
As the largest hotel operator in Lebanon, IHG presently manages four hotels (with close to 900 keys) across three brands: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, and Staybridge Suites.
IHG Hotels & Resorts’ signing of a franchise agreement with DIA SARL marks a significant step in introducing the premium voco brand to Beirut, Lebanon. With its exceptional offerings and prime location, voco Beirut Central District aims to provide an unrivaled premium hospitality experience for guests visiting the dynamic Lebanese capital.
