The Kabul Serena Hotel , one of the Afghanistan’s few luxury hotels, has ceased operations after nearly two decades, with its management transferred to the Taliban government’s Ministry of Finance. According to an official statement, the handover was made to the state-owned Hotels and Tourism Services Company (HSOC) on February 1.
The statement issued by Kabul Serena Hotel did not specify the reasons for its closure.
Economic and Tourism Impact
Economic analysts warn that the hotel’s shutdown will have negative economic repercussions, particularly given Afghanistan’s struggling economy.
“The closure of Kabul Serena will impact tourism and business travel in the country. The economic situation is already deteriorating, and this development will only worsen conditions,” said economist Mir Abdul Fahim Rashidi.
The hotel employed over 100 staff members and was considered a key venue for hosting international guests, including diplomats, foreign officials, and humanitarian workers. Rashidi noted that its closure represents a significant economic setback, particularly for employees who relied on it for their livelihoods.
A Symbol of International Engagement
Kabul Serena Hotel, part of the Aga Khan Development Network, began operations in 2005. Over the years, it symbolized Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts and international engagement, attracting high-profile guests and foreign delegations.
The hotel was also seen as a vital part of Afghanistan’s tourism and hospitality sector, offering secure accommodations in a country where safety concerns have long deterred international visitors. Business consultant Mohammad Maroof expressed skepticism about the hotel’s ability to attract foreign guests under its new management.
“With the Taliban now overseeing the hotel, it’s unlikely that foreign visitors will choose to stay there. International guests prioritize security and comfort, and this change in administration raises serious concerns,” Maroof told Yaraan.
Security Challenges and Past Attacks
Throughout its years of operation, Kabul Serena was targeted multiple times. One of the deadliest attacks occurred on March 20, 2014, when Taliban gunmen stormed the hotel, killing nine people, including foreign nationals and an Afghan journalist. The Taliban later claimed responsibility, stating that they had explicitly targeted foreigners.
Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August 2021, Kabul Serena Hotel has continued to host international delegations and diplomatic missions. However, the broader security situation and the withdrawal of many foreign organizations from the country have significantly reduced the presence of international guests.
Taliban Government’s Response
Regarding concerns over the closure, the Taliban’s Ministry of Finance stated on its website that the state-run Hotels and Tourism Services Company has reactivated six hotels, five in Kabul and one in Jalalabad, since their return to power. According to the ministry, these hotels have created job opportunities for thousands of people and contributed national revenue.
While the future of Kabul Serena Hotel under its new administration remains uncertain, its closure marks another shift in Afghanistan’s evolving business landscape under Taliban rule.
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