It’s a Wrap! HICSA 2026

What does hospitality leadership really look like today’s volatile world?

That was the question that set the tone for the Hotel Investment Conference South Asia (HICSA) 2026 at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & Residences, as Manav Thadani opened the conference with a powerful session on Leadership in a World on Fire.  Drawing on insights from a Hotelivate study of more than 100 industry leaders, the session highlighted a simple truth: there is no single formula for leadership. Additionally, in today’s environment, volatility isn’t a phase, it’s the only constant. From geopolitical shifts to economic uncertainty and rapid technological change, leaders are navigating constant disruption while making decisions with greater speed and clarity than ever before.

It was a fitting way to begin two days of candid conversations, fresh perspectives and debate around the themes shaping hospitality today.

The exclusive Owners’ Only Meet brought together some of the sharpest minds in the business—diving into the realities shaping hotel ownership today. From the evolving role of third-party operators to the fine balance between debt and sustainability, the conversations were candid, complex and deeply relevant. Debates around balancing costs and design highlighted a fundamental question—how much is too much? Legal perspectives added another layer, while long-standing owner challenges were unpacked with honesty and clarity.

If you were in the room, you know.

The modern GM is no longer just an operator—but a business leader.

From embracing humility and continuous learning to navigating AI-led transformation and evolving profitability metrics, the role is changing rapidly. The focus is shifting beyond RevPAR towards GOPPAR and flow-through, alongside unlocking F&B potential and managing increasingly complex cost structures. The workshop concluded with a session powered by Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne on navigating the key challenges faced by today’s GM. One message stood out clearly: leadership today is about adaptability, intentionality and enabling others to succeed.

In conversation with Latha Venkatesh, Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL, unpacked a world shaped by disruption—and an industry that continues to adapt and IHCL’s place as the leading hotel company in India. Even as disruptions—from geopolitical conflicts to airline incidents—reshape the landscape, the sector’s resilience remains intact. Recovery is faster, more agile and increasingly dependent on operational readiness.

In conversation with Manav Thadani, William Heinecke, Founder & Chairman Minor International, shared the journey of building a global hospitality group—and why India is central to its next phase of growth. From launching the business at 17 to scaling over 640 hotels globally, the story is one of bold decisions and long-term thinking. India’s entry may have come later—but as he put it, they “saved the best for last.” At the core of it all lies a simple philosophy: People First. Always.

In a thoughtful chat with Manav Thadani, Arjun Oberoi reflected on what it takes to build a brand that endures. As travel demand continues to rise—both domestically and globally—the Oberoi Group is entering a renewed phase of growth, with a strong pipeline and expanding international presence. Yet, at the core of this expansion lies an unwavering commitment to product quality and people. Because enduring luxury isn’t scaled—it’s carefully built, protected and consistently delivered.

ITC Hotels’ new outlook post-demerger is bold, focused and ready for expansion. The strategy is firmly “asset right”—prioritising the right mix of ownership, partnerships and scale. At the core of this next phase lies a clear competitive advantage: its talent and its strength in F&B. These pillars continue to define ITC Hotels’ positioning, even as the brand sharpens its growth ambitions and prepares to expand with greater agility and intent.

Moderated by Achin Khanna, this power-packed panel unpacked the key forces shaping the industry today. Geopolitical tensions, AI disruption, evolving owner–operator dynamics, the talent crisis and economic volatility are reshaping hospitality at every level. As Rajeev Menon aptly put it, “Volatility is the new baseline.” And yet, the outlook remains steady. Hospitality has always been resilient—built on connection, purpose and long-term demand. Rebound cycles are shortening, and the industry is adapting faster than ever before. Technology is enabling smarter operations, while AI is enhancing—not replacing—the human element. Owner–operator relationships continue to evolve, with stronger alignment and trust. Yet, the biggest challenge remains talent—because while systems can scale, people define the experience.

Moderated by Uttam Dave, this session brought together leaders from Marriott International, Hilton, Radisson Hotel Group and IHCL to unpack global development trends. Growth today is no longer just about expansion—it’s about how you grow. Flexible models, asset-light strategies and conversions are enabling faster, more efficient scale, even as markets like India continue to see strong new-build momentum. The direction is clear: scale with intent, not just ambition.

Branded residences are no longer niche—they’re emerging as a powerful intersection of real estate and hospitality. In India, demand is shifting from aspirational to functional, with buyers prioritising services, security and lifestyle. Mixed-use developments are driving growth, where brand association plays a critical role. The focus is clear: build the right product, in the right market, with the right partner—because this is no longer just about luxury, but long-term value creation.

As always, the conference closed with candour, clarity and unfiltered perspectives. The annual Hotseat, moderated by Manav Thadani, remains one of the most anticipated sessions of HICSA—bringing together some of the industry’s most seasoned leaders for an engaging and free-flowing conversation.

Blending sharp insights with candid moments, the discussion offered a rare window into leadership—exploring defining experiences, tough decisions and the lessons that shape leaders over time. From navigating uncertainty to building teams and culture, the session captured what leadership truly looks like in today’s evolving hospitality landscape. No scripts. No safe answers. Just honest conversations.

Day One closed on an inspiring note as Amitabh Kant was honoured with the HICSA Lifetime Achievement Award. In conversation with Dr. Jyotsna Suri, the session reflected on a journey defined by vision, nation-building and a deep commitment to India’s growth story. From driving transformative initiatives to shaping India’s global positioning, his contributions to tourism and hospitality have been both foundational and far-reaching—including the iconic Incredible India campaign, which redefined how the world experiences India.

He left us with a powerful reminder of the immense potential of India’s tourism sector—still underpenetrated yet poised to become one of the country’s most significant drivers of growth, employment and global influence.

A moment to recognise hotels that are not just performing—but setting the standard. The HICSA Hotels of the Year Awards 2026 honoured standout properties across seven segments:

• Luxury
• Upper Upscale
• Upscale
• Upper Midmarket
• Midmarket
• Budget
• Boutique

Each exemplifying excellence in design, operations, guest experience and long-term value. These are the hotels raising the bar for the industry.

Every great hotel has a leader behind it—shaping teams, driving performance and creating memorable guest experiences.

The MakeMyTrip General Manager of the Year Awards 2026 recognised exceptional leaders across segments—those who consistently deliver results, inspire teams and set new benchmarks for excellence. A celebration of leadership that continues to drive the industry forward.

This year, HICSA took an unexpected turn as Suhani Shah, Mentalist brought a unique blend of intrigue, energy and audience engagement to the stage. What followed was a series of moments that blurred the line between logic and intuition—sharp decisions, unexpected twists and reactions that ranged from disbelief to sheer amazement. The session wasn’t just entertaining; it was immersive, drawing the audience into an experience that was as thought-provoking as it was captivating.

That spirit of experience extended beyond the stage. From the Opening Cocktails & Dinner at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai Hotel & Residences, featuring international chefs from across the Hyatt portfolio, to the Closing Cocktails at ITC Maratha showcasing iconic restaurants like Dum Pukht, Bukhara and Peshawari, every touchpoint was thoughtfully curated. The After Hours at Bombay Swim Club at the ICONIQA Mumbai International Airport—newly crowned Upper Upscale Hotel of the Year—brought the conference to life in a more relaxed, celebratory setting.

Together, it was a reminder that great experiences, much like hospitality itself, are not just created—they are felt, remembered and talked about long after the moment has passed.

HICSA 2026 brought over 800 of the best of the industry together—leaders, ideas and conversations that reflected both the challenges and the immense opportunities ahead. From navigating a “world on fire” and redefining leadership, to exploring new models of growth, talent dynamics and evolving guest expectations, the conference captured a sector that continues to adapt, innovate and push boundaries.

As the industry continues to evolve, so will the conversations—see you at HICSA 2027.