The iconic Serena Hotel in Kabul, Afghanistan, has closed its doors after the Taliban government took over its management
The iconic Serena Hotel in Kabul, Afghanistan, has closed its doors after the Taliban government took over its management. The five-star hotel, renowned for its elegant architecture and luxurious amenities, had been a landmark in the Afghan capital since its reopening in 2005 following extensive renovations.
Originally opened in 1945 as the Kabul Hotel, the property underwent a significant restoration by the Aga Khan Development Network, adhering to classical Islamic architectural principles. The hotel had, however, faced several security challenges, including major attacks in 2008 and 2014.
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The Taliban government-run Hotel State Owned Corporation (HSOC) terminated the Serena Hotels group’s contract five years before its scheduled expiration, assuming control of the property. While the HSOC expressed confidence in its ability to manage the hotel, concerns remain regarding the maintenance of the five-star level of service, particularly given the limited access to such luxury accommodations for most Afghans.
The closure of the Serena Hotel has sparked mixed reactions among the Afghan public. While some may lament the loss of a prestigious landmark, many Afghans, particularly those from less privileged backgrounds, have never experienced the hotel firsthand. Its exclusivity and association with foreigners have made it somewhat of an outlier in the Afghan social landscape.
The closure of the Serena Hotel marks another significant change in post-war Afghanistan, reflecting the ongoing transformation of the country under Taliban rule.
Funeral Ceremony of Shah Karim al-Hussaini, His Highness the Aga Khan IV
KABUL SERENA HOTEL – IMPORTANT NOTICE
After nearly two decades of dedicated services to Afghanistan and its citizens, setting high International benchmarking in the hospitality industry, hosting large numbers of International guests and state delegations and above all training thousands of local nationals, Kabul Serena Hotel shall be closing its operations effective February 1, 2025. The operations of the Hotel will, as from now on, be taken over by Hotel State Owned Corporation (HSOC). Please address any query you may have for any other further information directly to them.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our guests and partners who have been part of this wonderful journey. Our particular thanks goes to our dedicated team members who, with their commitments and devotion, have been instrumental in making the Kabul Serena Hotel a great success for its true hospitality and impeccable services. Serena Hotels remains committed to welcoming you at our other 33 destinations in 9 countries across the globe where you will continue to experience our traditional hospitality and exceptional services.
Thank you for being part of our journey.
Management
Serena Hotels
Funeral Ceremony of Shah Karim al-Hussaini, His Highness the Aga Khan IV
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