Hilton has announced the signing of a management agreement with real estate development group GFC Company Limited to operate a new hotel in the heart of Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, part of a mixed-use development, the opening of the 280-room Hilton Phnom Penh in 2022 will mark the entry of the hotel company into the country.

“As we expand the flagship brand, we are hyper-focused on introducing hotels in locations where travellers want to go, and global interest in Cambodia continues to increase at record-breaking speeds,” said Vera Manoukian, senior vice president and global brand head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. “In partnership with the Hilton Phnom Penh team and GFC Company Limited, we look forward to bringing Hilton’s premiere hospitality and exceptional service to Cambodia.”

Located just nine kilometres from Phnom Penh International Airport, Hilton Phnom Penh will be in close proximity to some of the capital’s famous landmarks, such as the Art Deco-styled Phnom Penh Central Market — otherwise known locally as Phsar Thmey, or "New Market" — and the tallest high-row building in Phnom Penh: the Vattanac Capital Tower.

When it opens, Hilton Phnom Penh will cater to various gastronomic preferences through dining spaces, including an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a café and a bar in the lobby. Meetings and events professionals will have access to a generous functions space spanning more than 1,500 square meters, including an 875-square-metere ballroom.

The hotel will also feature an executive lounge where business travelers can work from between meetings, as well as a fitness center and swimming pool.

“Cambodia as a destination is on a growth trajectory, with global businesses establishing a presence in the capital city and the government investing into its infrastructure to boost its tourism appeal. It is a great time to be entering the market, and we are delighted to have signed with our partners GFC Company Limited to build a new, brand-defining Hilton hotel in a great location within Phnom Penh,” said Guy Phillips, senior vice president, development, Asia & Australasia, Hilton.

“We have been looking for the right partner to enter Cambodia with, and Hilton gives us confidence in being able to build our market share with the strength of its brand and commercial engine globally. The flagship Hilton brand is also one of most recognizable hotel brands in the world, and we believe it will be top of mind for travelers — whether they are visiting for business or leisure,” said Jeremiah Lee, managing partner, GFC Company Limited.

Hilton currently operates 40 properties across nine markets in South East Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia and Myanmar. Over the next three to five years, the company is targeting to open 54 more hotels in its pipeline, which includes the launch of the Canopy by Hilton into South East Asia and the company’s entry into Dili, Timor Leste next year.