The Ambassadeur Hotel is one of the popular landmarks in Nairobi Central Business District (CBD).
The hotel is located next to Kencom Buildings, adjacent to the Kenya Bus Service (KBS) bus stop, and a few metres away from the National Archives.
Founded in 1961 by former Kirinyaga Central MP John Ngata Kariuki and Gurcharan Singh Vohra Ambassadeur Hotel served as the go-to leisure spot for politicians from around the East African region.
The 3-star not only served as a chill spot for politicians but also as a conference and meeting hall for the country’s affluents.
However, the hotel lost its allure over the years largely due to the establishment of a bus stop at its door-step. The facility boasts 94 well-appointed rooms, multiple conference rooms accommodating 10 to 150 people, and ample parking space for over 30 vehicles.
It caters to a diverse clientele including tourists who enjoy complimentary benefits such as a free breakfast buffet as well as dry cleaning and laundry services.
Little-known architect who designed iconic UAP Old Mutual Tower in Nairobi
Ambassadeur Hotel current owner
In 2004, the iconic hotel was acquired by businessman Samuel Maina, who remain
s its owner todate. The late businessman was the owner of the firm Ambassadeur Investments Kenya Limited, which controls the Ambassadeur Hotel and other businesses.
Besides the hospitality sector, businessman Maina is said to have also invested heavily in the real estate and gas sectors.
His businesses in Nairobi and Murang’a counties include shops, flats and the Oil Libya Petrol Station in Spring Valley, Nairobi.
Also in his portfolio is a house and shop in Mlango Kubwa, a stall in Kibera market, a bungalow in Buruburu Estate and an undisclosed number of godowns in Athi River.
He was also the owner of Bilmas Hotel in Nairobi CBD and a building in Murang’a Gikoe Shopping Center.
