In today’s hospitality industry, the definition of luxury is changing.
While opulent suites, fine dining, and world-class amenities remain desirable, a new priority is emerging: security. For travellers—whether business executives, leisure tourists, or diplomats—the assurance of safety has become just as important as the promise of comfort.
In Kenya, where the tourism and hospitality sector is a major economic driver, security concerns have long been a challenge.
High-profile security incidents at hotels in Nairobi have underscored the vulnerabilities within the industry, leading to increased scrutiny from travellers, corporate clients, and international organisations. The tragic events of past years have shown that security lapses can have devastating consequences—not only for guests but also for a hotel’s reputation and the broader tourism economy.
Recent security incidents involving foreign nationals in Kenya have further fuelled these concerns.
High-profile abductions and violent crimes targeting expatriates and business travellers serve as a stark reminder that hotels must go beyond the standard security protocols. In an era where security is a top concern for global travellers, hotels must actively demonstrate their commitment to guest safety through internationally recognised standards.
The impact of security on the hospitality industry is well-documented.
A 2022 study by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime on tourism and security found that “perceptions of insecurity, whether based on actual crime data or media reports, have a direct correlation with declining hotel bookings and reduced international arrivals.”
The study emphasises that “hotels that proactively invest in security infrastructure and training not only mitigate risk but also enhance their competitiveness in the global market.”
Beyond guest reassurance, strong security measures benefit hotels in multiple ways. They reduce liability risks, lower insurance costs, and protect brand reputation.
More importantly, they contribute to the broader goal of making Kenya a safer and more attractive destination for international visitors. A secure hospitality sector translates into stronger investor confidence, increased conference tourism, and a thriving business travel segment—all of which are essential to the economic growth.
A 2023 report by the World Travel & Tourism Council highlights that “hotels and resorts with verifiable security measures experience a 12–15 percent increase in repeat bookings and longer guest stays compared to those without such measures.” This reinforces the idea that security investments are not just a cost but a long-term driver of business success.
As Kenya’s hospitality sector continues to recover and grow, security must remain at the forefront of industry priorities.
Luxury today is no longer defined by exclusivity and grandeur alone—it is about providing guests with peace of mind.
The most successful hotels will be those that offer both. In Nairobi, a growing number of hotels are rising to this challenge by attaining internationally recognised certifications.
The Writer is the Director of Operations at Radisson Blu Hotel Nairobi Upper Hill
