Photos: How the grand opening of Dusit Princess Hotel went down in Nairobi

On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Tourism CS Alfred Mutua presided over the grand opening of Dusit Princess Hotel Residences in Nairobi – in an event that was attended by government officials, celebrities, ambassadors, and travel industry specialists.

Dusit Princess, operated by Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, celebrated its grand opening by allowing different stakeholders to tour the property and learn more about Dusit’s commitment to delivering enduring value to the broader community through its operations and service.

Some of the top celebrities who graced the launch were; Kate Actress, Pinky Ghelani, Walter Nyambane, Tatiana aka Mama Olive, and Valentine Njoroge who was the host of the night among others.

Guest of honour at the grand opening was Tourism and Wildlife Dr Alfred N. Mutua who was standing in for Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi.

Others present were Ms June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board, and H.E Ms Morakot Janemathukorn, the Thai ambassador to Kenya.

Speaking at the event mutual said; “My ministry is committed to increasing international tourist arrivals through strategic marketing, repositioning Kenya as a premier global destination. Maintaining high standards in our hospitality sector is crucial, and our ongoing hotel rating exercise supports this goal,”

He added; “The official opening of Dusit Princess Hotel is a significant boost for Nairobi’s hospitality industry, enhancing the city’s appeal to international tourists and business travelers. As our tourism sector continues to grow, such investments are essential for sustaining this momentum and showcasing Kenya’s readiness to welcome the world,”.

Soft opened in March 2023 in Westlands, just 5km from the Central Business District, this elegant hybrid property offers 100 spacious hotel rooms and suites designed for short-term and extended stays.

These include a variety of tastefully furnished Deluxe rooms, Junior suites, and One-Bedroom suites, all providing breathtaking views of the city.

The property’s wide range of facilities includes versatile meeting and event spaces, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a heated swimming pool, and exquisite dining options showcasing local and international cuisines. A standout feature is the birdcage-themed Aviary Rooftop Cocktail Lounge, featuring innovative and classic cocktails, delectable Thai-inspired bites, and panoramic views of Nairobi’s skyline.

Alongside showcasing the hotel’s various facilities, the grand opening event also highlighted Dusit’s unique blend of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality and local service traditions, and the company’s commitment to contributing positively to Kenya’s tourism industry and its economic growth by attracting international visitors and creating meaningful and memorable experiences for guests, residents, and locals alike.

“We are committed to being a vibrant part of the Nairobi community, fostering connections, and creating a lasting positive impact,” said Mr Lionel Formento, General Manager, Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi.

“Through local partnerships, cultural initiatives, and environmental responsibility, we aim to enrich the lives of all those we collaborate with, leaving a legacy far beyond a comfortable stay.”

Additionally, he noted that while Dusit D2 was one of the hotels under the Dusit International brand portfolio, it is a different entity from Dusit Princess. “We are a newly built hotel in a new location with a different brand concept.’’