Nairobi’s hospitality sector is entering its most commercially significant period with hotels rolling out December programmes aimed at capturing increased domestic and corporate spending. Ole-Sereni is among the establishments activating its holiday calendar, using traditional rituals and themed events as demand drivers in a season operators hope will help stabilise a mixed year.
The hotel’s cake-mixing and tree-lighting ceremonies, held annually at the end of the year, has become a familiar signal of the festive push across city hotels. While rooted in old European baking customs, the rituals now serves largely as marketing and engagement tools for properties seeking early visibility in a crowded seasonal market.
Industry indicators suggest the hotel’s efforts reflect broader national trends. Kenya’s hospitality industry which is closely tied to tourism is projected to contribute a record KSh 1.2 trillion to the economy in 2025, equivalent to more than 7 percent of GDP and supporting an estimated 1.7 million jobs.
The outlook is driven primarily by domestic spending of nearly KSh 560 billion and over KSh 300 billion in international visitor expenditure, the latter up 31 percent from 2019. Coastal operators report unusually strong domestic bookings, with some properties already full for the holiday stretch.
Tourism stakeholders attribute the improved outlook to recent infrastructure upgrades, including the Dongo Kundu bypass and expanded commuter rail services, which have eased movement across Mombasa. Nationally, according to data from the Tourism Ministry,the sector recorded 2.4 million international arrivals in 2024, which was a 14.6 percent rise.
International visitor numbers are projected to climb further, supported by a 35 percent rise in global arrivals to Kenya and expanded air connectivity. Nairobi continues to attract high spending tourists and business travellers, with new investments including an estimated 80-room expansion pipeline, signalling heightened investor confidence.
Despite the optimism, the sector faces headwinds. Growth slowed to 4.1 percent in Q1 2025 from 38.1 percent the previous year, reflecting economic pressures and weaker visitor activity. Industry analysts warn of risks tied to reliance on safari tourism, overcrowding in signature destinations, climate impacts, and rising concerns over safety and service quality, factors prompting calls for tighter regulation.
Against this backdrop, Ole-Sereni is positioning its December programme around food-and-beverage offerings, still the strongest revenue lever for city hotels during the holidays. General Manager Amit Sharma said the property expects demand from local families, domestic travellers and corporate groups.
“December remains one of our most important months for both occupancy and dining, the hotel has lined up themed meals and events aimed at capturing seasonal spending,” said Sharma.
Group Executive Chef Torsten Schubert said the culinary approach this year involves reworking traditional holiday dishes.
“We are presenting turkey in a lot of different ways, and each outlet will offer a distinct interpretation aimed at balancing tradition and innovation,” Schubert said.
Ole-Sereni’s line-up, which runs through Christmas and New Year’s Eve, mirrors similar pushes across Nairobi’s hotel market as operators attempt to capture heightened seasonal spending amid ongoing pressure on conference business and fluctuating international arrivals.
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