CityBlue Hotels - Kampala

CityBlue Hotels is a rapidly expanding hospitality brand that has made significant strides in the African hotel industry since its inception in 2013. Founded with the vision of introducing quality hospitality facilities across Sub-Saharan Africa, CityBlue has established itself as a trusted name for both business and leisure travelers. ​

Founding and Vision

CityBlue Hotels was founded in 2013 with the ambition of addressing the need for quality hospitality facilities in Sub-Saharan Africa’s hotel landscape. The company has built a reliable and passionate team of local and international professionals, instilling discipline, growing standards, and fostering a sense of family. ​

Geographical Presence

CityBlue Hotels has expanded its footprint across several African countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Ghana. The brand operates in key cities such as Nairobi, Kigali, Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and Accra, with plans to reach 50 operating hotels by 2028.

Properties and Services

CityBlue’s portfolio includes a diverse range of properties catering to various market segments. Notable establishments include:

Urban by CityBlue, Kigali: Located in the upscale suburb of Kiyovu, this hotel offers 17 spacious rooms equipped with high-quality amenities. It features The Bistro, a popular dining spot, and The Office, a trendy rooftop bar.

CityBlue Creekside Hotel & Suites, Mombasa: Situated on the tidal Tudor Creek, this hotel boasts 100 rooms and suites, a bar, restaurant, fitness center, and pool.

CityBlue Hotels emphasizes comfort, efficiency, and value for money, ensuring guests experience a blend of cultural tradition and modern innovation.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

CityBlue Hotels has engaged in strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings and expand its reach. In 2021, the company entered a joint venture with Valor Hospitality Partners, an Atlanta-based management firm, to co-develop projects in Africa. The venture, named Valor Diar, began by operating Divine Residences by CityBlue in Nairobi, Kenya.

Additionally, in 2024, CityBlue Hotels partnered with Dream Hotels & Resorts, a prominent player in South Africa’s hospitality industry. This collaboration aims to create a unified hospitality experience that resonates with both local and international travelers.

Sustainability Initiatives

Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, CityBlue Hotels acquired an equity stake in Farm to Feed, a Kenyan agri-tech startup, in 2024. Farm to Feed is a B2B platform that sources surplus produce directly from farmers, reducing food loss and increasing farmers’ income. This partnership aligns with CityBlue’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives and supports the impact investment strategy of its parent company, The Diar Group.

Cultural and Heritage Collaborations

CityBlue Hotels has also collaborated with the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) to promote cultural heritage and tourism. This partnership aims to enhance knowledge and appreciation of Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage, contributing to national development.

Future Outlook

With a clear vision and strategic partnerships, CityBlue Hotels is poised for continued growth across the African continent. The company’s commitment to quality hospitality, sustainability, and cultural heritage positions it as a significant player in Africa’s evolving hospitality landscape.