Delhi Five-Star Hotel Prices Skyrocket Ahead of Major AI Summit
The national capital is experiencing an unprecedented surge in five-star hotel rates as travel demand escalates ahead of the India AI Impact Summit 2026. According to a PTI report from Sunday, 8 February, occupancy rates are climbing rapidly, driving prices to extraordinary levels.
Summit Details and Expected Footfall
Scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from 16 to 20 February 2026, the artificial intelligence summit is anticipated to draw thousands of international delegates. Official releases cited in agency reports indicate that over 35,000 registrations have already been received, with attendees expected from more than 100 countries.
The event will feature an impressive roster of participants, including 15 to 20 heads of government, over 50 ministers from various nations, and representatives from more than 40 prominent global and Indian companies.
Specific Hotel Pricing Examples
Data compiled by the Economic Times reveals staggering room charges at luxury properties:
- The Imperial Hotel is charging ₹197,049 for one night on 16 February, plus an additional ₹35,469 in taxes.
- Hyatt Regency Delhi has rates approaching ₹50,000 per night.
- The Leela Palace Delhi is asking ₹78,000 per night, inclusive of all taxes.
- Shangri-La Eros Hotel is already sold out for 18 February, with a night's stay on 16 February priced at ₹89,000 including taxes.
Industry Perspectives on the Surge
Hotel executives confirm that demand is exceptionally strong across all room categories, including premium suites. "We are expecting full occupancy on select dates, driven by the high demand from city events and the AI summit. We are nearly at a sold-out situation for February 19 and 20," stated Vineet Kapoor, hotel manager at The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group in New Delhi.
Kapoor added, "There is strong demand across all room types, including suites. We will be hosting several international leaders and delegates during the summit."
Magnitude of the Price Increase
The PTI report highlights that five-star establishments such as Leela Palace, ITC Maurya, and Taj Palace are offering rooms at peak season rates. Davinder Juj, general manager of Eros Hotel in New Delhi, revealed that prices have escalated by approximately 30-50% during the AI summit compared to other dates in February 2026.
Juj noted, "Business in December and January has been a bit softer than expected. Revenue per available room growth has not met the levels seen in some other markets. We are adjusting our strategies to drive revenue in the coming months."
This pricing phenomenon underscores the significant economic impact of major international events on local hospitality sectors, with Delhi's luxury hotel market currently operating at near-capacity levels.
