IHG Hotels & Resorts has recently unveiled the debut of the Holiday Inn Express in Islamabad, Pakistan, and the opening of the first Garner Hotel, Garner Auburn, in Seattle. This strategic development marks a significant milestone in IHG’s pursuit to cater to diverse market needs across the world, showcasing its commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.
The launch of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites The Avenue Islamabad, scheduled for 2026, represents IHG’s endeavor to strengthen its presence in key international markets. This new property, in collaboration with Square Nine Estate Developers Pvt. Ltd., will enhance IHG’s already impressive portfolio, which includes more than 3,000 operational Holiday Inn Express hotels and over 650 in the pipeline globally. Renowned for its efficient, dependable services, the Holiday Inn Express brand has become synonymous with smart and seamless travel experiences.
Positioned in the heart of Islamabad, the upcoming Holiday Inn Express & Suites is set to offer a modern and convenient hospitality experience. Surrounded by the city’s enchanting landscape, the hotel is poised to become a preferred destination for both leisure and business travelers. Its location in Islamabad’s vibrant business environment, combined with its commitment to comfort and accessibility, aligns perfectly with the brand’s ethos of refined hospitality.
The new hotel will feature 150 rooms as part of The Avenue, an upscale mixed-use development. Designed to meet the needs of today’s tech-savvy travelers, the hotel will offer facilities such as an all-day dining restaurant, lounge, meeting rooms, and a well-equipped gym. Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa at IHG, expressed enthusiasm about bringing the Holiday Inn Express brand to Pakistan, citing its fit for a market like Islamabad.
Meanwhile, in the United States, the introduction of the first Garner Hotel, Garner Auburn – Seattle, underscores IHG’s prowess in the midscale hotel sector. This establishment, located in the Seattle suburb of Auburn, Washington, emphasizes the brand’s commitment to providing affordable, high-quality accommodation. Owned and managed by S1 Hospitality Management, Garner Auburn – Seattle offers amenities that cater to the essentials of modern travelers, including a complimentary hot breakfast bar and a cookie happy hour, all within convenient proximity to popular entertainment venues and business campuses.
Andy Cho, President of S1 Hospitality Management, lauded the collaboration with IHG, noting the potential of the Garner brand in the midscale market. The Garner Auburn – Seattle serves as a testament to the brand’s appeal and a model for future conversions within the IHG brand family.
As IHG continues to operate 109 hotels across eight brands in the Middle East, the introduction of the Holiday Inn Express in Islamabad and the Garner Hotel in Seattle represents a dual stride in its global expansion. This dual launch not only enhances IHG’s brand portfolio but also sets new benchmarks in hospitality, offering travelers across the globe innovative and comfortable accommodation options. With these openings, IHG demonstrates its capability to adapt to varied market needs, reinforcing its position as a leader in the global hospitality industry.
