Luxury / news

Maybourne Group Splits Operations and Real Estate in Qatari Ownership Reset

A new ownership agreement divides the Maybourne hotel group between two Qatari entities, separating operational control from property ownership while keeping the management team intact.

The multi-billion-pound luxury hotel group behind Claridge's, The Berkeley and The Connaught has been restructured under a fresh ownership accord. The agreement, effective 9 July, dissolves a long-standing co-ownership framework between two Qatari investment powers, separating the operation of Maybourne's hotels from the ownership of their underlying real estate.

Under the terms, Regis Maybourne (UK) Ltd gains sole ownership of the Maybourne operating brand and management of all hotels. It also takes ownership of the physical real estate of Claridge's in London, The Maybourne Riviera in France and The Maybourne Beverly Hills in the US.

The other side, Constellation Hotels on behalf of Qatar's sovereign wealth fund, becomes full owner of the buildings housing The Connaught, The Berkeley and The Emory in London, as well as the upcoming Saint Germain property in Paris and a development in Marrakech.

The restructure is described as a "full steam ahead" move for global growth rather than a downsizing or asset sale. For luxury travel advisors, the stable ownership structure is expected to maintain the same level of service across the portfolio.

Day-to-day management continues under CEO Marc Socker, ensuring continuity in guest experience and the legendary service associated with the group's hotels.