Aleph Hospitality just celebrated it’s 10th anniversary of rewriting the rulebook for hotel management in the Middle East and Africa.
From its first property in 2015 to 50 operating hotels across 39 cities and 23 countries in 2025, the Dubai-based powerhouse has grown into the largest independent hotel management company in the region, and they are showing no signs of slowing down.
When Founder and Managing Director Bani Haddad launched Aleph Hospitality, he envisioned a model built on freedom, flexibility and trust, one that would empower hotel owners rather than tie them down. He said:
“Pioneering a new business model requires patience, and the determination to remain steadfast in a vision that anticipated industry change a decade ahead. It is deeply rewarding to see that foresight validated today and that our business model has proven to be both resilient and successful.”
That “owner-first” approach has paid off handsomely. More than 60% of Aleph’s partners now manage multiple properties under the company’s care, a testament to its transparent operations, tailored solutions, and strong financial returns.
The midscale sweet spot
Aleph Hospitality has become popular among mid-to-upscale hotels, a segment currently experiencing remarkable investor momentum. As outlined in its ‘Midscale Momentum‘ analysis, this segment is where the numbers make sense, delivering high ROI, fast scalability, and resilient demand, even in fluctuating economies.
With travellers increasingly seeking affordable quality, authentic experiences, and modern comfort, Aleph’s adaptable management model gives independent owners and mid-tier brands the agility to compete with international giants without losing local flavour. Whether managing a smart city hotel, a chic boutique stay, or a resort that delivers both global service with regional soul, Aleph’s hands-on approach ensures each property thrives in its own niche.
Milestones and the road ahead
In 2025, Aleph Hospitality secured the largest hotel management portfolio deal in the region, partnering with African Hotel Development Group to operate 26 ONOMO-branded hotels across 15 African countries, a landmark moment cementing its status as a regional leader. Aleph was was named Leading Hotel Management Company at the Leaders in Hospitality Awards 2025 by Hotel & Catering Middle East.
Looking ahead, the company is gearing up for another phase of accelerated growth. In 2026, Aleph will open four new regional offices in Casablanca, Abidjan, Cape Town, and Nairobi, ensuring even faster response times and closer collaboration with hotel owners. It has also announced a dedicated Luxury Division to support its growing high-end portfolio.
Having achieved its goal of 50 hotels by 2025, Aleph Hospitality is now setting its sights on 100 hotels by 2029. And if history is any guide, they are well on track to get there. As Executive Director Neil George summed it up:
“It took considerable market education to introduce a model that, although well proven in the rest of the world, was new to our region. The results of those efforts are now evident. Our focus for the future is clear: to continue to deliver locally smart, world-class owner-centric hotel management services across the region.”
Aleph Hospitality’s secret sauce is a winning formula of global know-how and local flair, coupled with nimble decision-making and straight-shooting partnerships. This dynamic combo has made them the darling of emerging markets, delivering top-notch returns and rave reviews; and with their mantra “smart management builds lasting value” ringing true, this decade-old trailblazer is just getting started, shaking up the hospitality scene from Riyadh to Kigali, one savvy hotel at a time.
