New Delhi, Feb 12: In light of recent media articles reporting unusually high hotel room tariffs in Delhi during the upcoming AI Impact Summit, a meeting was convened by the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, to review the situation.
The Hotel Association of India (HAI), as part of this discussion, undertook a rapid assessment with its member hotels to ascertain the prevailing market reality. Based on preliminary inputs received, the weighted average room rates across member properties during the summit period are currently ranging between INR 40,000 and INR 60,000 per night.
HAI would like to clarify that global events of the scale and significance of the AI Impact Summit naturally lead to a temporary surge in demand, particularly in a market already experiencing constraints in certain room categories. Reports citing room tariffs in lakhs appear to be selective references to premium inventory and are not reflective of the broader market average.
Delhi is witnessing exceptionally strong demand during the summit period, coinciding with approximately a dozen wedding dates and major international sporting events, including the Cricket World Cup. As a result, the city is approaching near-full occupancy across categories, with several hotels already sold out.
It is important to note that the higher figures reported in certain instances typically pertain to luxury rooms, deluxe categories, and presidential suites, which command premium pricing due to enhanced space, services, and inclusions.
For the AI Impact Summit specifically, a substantial proportion of hotel inventory was contracted well in advance across multiple segments at pre-negotiated rates. Consequently, the effective average base room rates for the majority of booked inventory remain significantly lower than the figures highlighted in some recent reports. The limited remaining availability is largely confined to luxury and suite categories and is being priced in accordance with established market dynamics during periods of exceptionally high demand.
While HAI, as an industry body, does not intervene in the individual pricing decisions of its member hotels, it is actively engaging with stakeholders to compile accurate, data-backed information to ensure transparency and clarity. Our members remain committed to safeguarding guest interests and upholding India’s reputation as a credible, world-class host for global events.
As the AI Impact Summit approaches, the hospitality industry reaffirms that all guests are welcome. HAI urges the industry to extend every possible support to ensure the comfort, convenience, and positive experience of visiting dignitaries and delegates.
