Sadness as Iconic Hilton Hotel Nairobi to close down after 53 years in operation

The Hilton Hotel located in the Nairobi Central Business District will close down in December after being in service for over 53 years.

Through its spokesperson, the hotel announced its intended December closure on Wednesday.

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

The hotel said it will not be closing down for reasons entirely related to the Covid-19 pandemic that saw many similar establishments close or scale down their operations.

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

The hotel management also announced the layoff of some staff members and the redeployment of other staff to other Hilton branches within Nairobi. 

The management also pledged to help their staff that the retrenchment process will affect with finding alternative employment opportunities.

“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 said.

The 17-storey Hilton Hotel (CBD) that was constructed between 1966 and 1969 has seen visitors walk in through its doors for 53 years and the management appreciates all the people who contributed to its rich legacy.

“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,” Hilton said.

The establishment boasts 283 rooms, which include 45 twin rooms, 185 doubles, 27 executive rooms 22 pool rooms and 7 suites.