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After nearly three decades as a landmark in the CBD, the Hilton Durban closed its doors this month and will no longer be operating under the Hilton brand.
Located adjacent to the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) and just a short stroll from Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Cricket Ground, the five-star property has long been a cornerstone of Durban’s business and conferencing landscape.
According to statements issued to multiple media outlets (including IOL, Moneyweb and Travel News), Hilton confirmed that its management agreement with African American Properties Hotel Pty - the owning company of the property - ended on 5 February 2026.
This effectively means the hotel is no longer part of the global Hilton Worldwide portfolio and cannot be booked via Hilton platforms.
Who owns the property?
The property is owned by African American Properties Hotel Pty, a subsidiary of the UAE-based Bin Otaiba Hotel Group, which acquired the hotel in 2018 under its Royal Majestic Hotels portfolio. Reports suggest there are plans to rebrand several South African properties under the Royal Majestic banner, although no formal announcement has yet been made regarding the Durban site’s future.
Farewell to a local icon
Hilton Durban originally opened in 1997 and quickly became synonymous with executive travel in the city. The hotel underwent a significant R150-million revamp in 2014, introducing upgraded rooms, a new restaurant and bar, and luxury suite offerings.
However, like much of the hospitality sector, the hotel was hit hard by the pandemic and closed in 2021 amid financial strain. After more than three years, it reopened under the Hilton brand in 2024, coinciding with Tourism Month.
While the Durban exit marks the end of an era, Hilton says its commitment to South Africa remains firm. Its current local portfolio includes:
- Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston
- DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town – Upper Eastside
- Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof
- Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch
Notably, the original Hilton properties in Sandton and Cape Town City Centre have also transitioned to other brands in recent years.
Prime position in Durban
While the closure may be a temporary setback, the property’s location remains unbeatable. Set in the heart of the CBD, steps from the Durban ICC, Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium and major corporate offices, it occupies one of the most strategic hospitality sites in the city.
Durban’s tourism and events economy continues to rebuild, and prime real estate of this calibre rarely sits idle for long. We’re looking forward to the next chapter of this iconic site!
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