IHG signs Holiday Inn Express hotel in Krabi - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Holiday Inn Express Krabi Ao Nang, a 158-room conversion hotel that will further strengthen the company's presence in one of Thailand's most popular beach destinations. The property is expected to open before the end of 2026 following an extensive rebranding programme.

Expanding partnership in Krabi

The new hotel marks another milestone in IHG's partnership with Chok Deesuk Co., Ltd., which already owns the nearby Holiday Inn Resort Krabi Ao Nang Beach.

Pathana Jitsaereetham, Director of Development, Thailand at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said the agreement reflects owners' continued confidence in IHG's brands, commercial expertise and ability to deliver long-term value.

He added that hotel conversions continue to gain momentum in Thailand, where they accounted for almost 40 per cent of all signed rooms in 2025. According to IHG, owners are increasingly attracted by the company's global distribution network, loyalty programme and international brand recognition.

First Gen 5 Holiday Inn Express in Thailand

Holiday Inn Express Krabi Ao Nang will become the first Holiday Inn Express hotel in Thailand to feature the brand's latest Generation 5 (Gen 5) design concept and only the second in Southeast Asia.

The next-generation design introduces more flexible and social public spaces that encourage guests to work, relax and connect, while maintaining the brand's focus on smart simplicity, comfort and functionality.

The 158-room hotel will offer an all-day dining restaurant, pool bar, swimming pool and fitness centre.

Prime location in Ao Nang

Located in the centre of Ao Nang, the hotel will be situated just one kilometre from Ao Nang Beach along one of the destination's main commercial streets, surrounded by restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Krabi International Airport can be reached in around 40 minutes by car.

Ao Nang serves as the gateway to many of Krabi's best-known attractions, including Railay Beach, Poda Island, Chicken Island and Hong Island. The destination continues to attract domestic and international visitors looking for beach holidays, island excursions, outdoor activities and vibrant nightlife.

Supporting continued growth

Peeranat Deechaisatetha, Chief Business Development Officer of Chok Deesuk Co., Ltd., said the new Holiday Inn Express complements the company's existing Holiday Inn Resort and enables it to serve a broader range of travellers visiting Krabi.

He added that the two hotels together will strengthen the destination's hospitality offering while supporting Krabi's continued development as one of Thailand's leading leisure destinations.

IHG currently operates 42 hotels across 11 brands in Thailand and has a further 39 properties in the development pipeline, underlining the company's ongoing expansion strategy in the country.

Image Credit: © IHG