BWH Hotels, the global hospitality firm, has elevated its presence in the East African market, rebranding one of its key Nairobi properties as a Best Western Premier—the company’s first hotel under its highest-tier Best Western brand in Kenya.
The former Best Western Plus Westlands, a fixture in Nairobi’s bustling Westlands business and lifestyle district, has been repositioned following a multi-year, strategic upgrade driven by its management partner, Dubai-based Aleph Hospitality. The move signals a concerted effort by both firms to capture a greater share of the upscale business and discerning leisure traveler market in one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
Investment and Repositioning
The rebranding to Best Western Premier Westlands is the “culmination of a multi-year journey of investment, innovation and service enhancement,” according to the press release issued by the companies on Tuesday. While the firms did not disclose the financial terms of the investment, the upgrade included significant overhauls to core guest amenities.
Since Aleph Hospitality took over management in 2019, the property has undergone a comprehensive transformation, focusing on modern sophistication to align with global Premier brand standards.
General Manager Amit Dhanda highlighted the strategic intent behind the move. “This rebranding is more than a name change; it reflects our promise of elevated standards, enriched experiences and upgraded facilities for both business and leisure travelers,” Dhanda stated.
Targeting the MICE Market
Crucially, the hotel’s repositioning aims to capitalize on Nairobi’s thriving MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. The property now features an expanded, state-of-the-art conference wing with upgraded audiovisual systems and specialized support, seeking to become a premier venue for both local and international events.
Beyond corporate facilities, the new Premier-tier experience includes significant enhancements to guest spaces which comprise fully renovated rooms and suites featuring premium bedding, smart TVs, and wireless charging stations. A revitalized lobby and lounge showcasing curated local artwork and sleek, contemporary design. An upgraded food and beverage offerings, including a redesigned rooftop lounge positioned as an urban retreat, and refreshed wellness facilities with an expanded gym and modern spa.
The strategic upgrade places the property in direct competition with international luxury and upper-upscale brands already established in the Kenyan capital. BWH Hotels, which operates three hotel companies including WorldHotels and SureStay Hotels, continues its growth trajectory across Africa as global hospitality groups chase rising demand for premium travel experiences across the continent.
Aleph Hospitality, headquartered in Dubai and with regional offices in Nairobi, specializes in managing internationally branded and independent hotels across the Middle East and Africa, representing over 50 properties in 23 countries.
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