The global hotel brand has unveiled plans to launch its eighth property in the United Kingdom and its first on the island of Ireland, in partnership with Northern Ireland’s largest hotel group, Andras Hotels.

Slated to open in late 2026, the new-build hotel will be situated in the historic Shaftesbury Square in central Belfast, just minutes’ walk from some of the city’s most popular attractions, including Queen’s University and the Botanic Gardens.

Rohan Thakkar, Chief Development Officer at YOTEL, comments: “We are delighted to bring YOTEL to Belfast, a city that shares our unwavering passion for innovation and creativity. YOTEL Belfast marks an exciting step forward in our global franchise strategy and strengthens our portfolio as the 35th signed hotel, bringing our total key count to nearly 8,000. We are thrilled to partner with Andras Hotels, one of the leading and largest operators in the region.”

The hotel will feature 165 rooms that each embody the YOTEL DNA of prioritising intelligent space-saving design, smart technology and maximum comfort for visitors to the city. Guests can expect brand signatures, such as the YOTEL reclining SmartBed™, SmartTVs, and rain showers with Urban Jungle amenities. 

In addition, YOTEL Belfast will also be home to a dynamic food and beverage concept, a 24/7 fitness centre and a meeting room. The public spaces will be designed in collaboration with local interior designers and architects to reflect the unique character of the Northern Irish capital and create a welcoming space for both hotel guests and the local community to socialise, work, and relax. 

Rajesh Rana, Director of Andras Hotels, comments: “We are excited to be bringing forward this project on a landmark site in the city. The investment of £17 million will provide a modern accommodation option for global travellers and create high quality jobs for the community, establishing the hotel as a major asset to the growing tourism market in Belfast.”

He continues: “The development will play an important role in transforming Shaftesbury Square, providing physical regeneration and bringing visitors to this important area. Our architects have done a wonderful job of designing a building that is modern but sits comfortably with the local context. We are now embarking on the planning process and consulting with community groups before beginning development in 2025.”

YOTEL’s expansion into Belfast is part of the brand’s broader strategy to introduce its innovative hotel concept to more cities across Ireland, the United Kingdom, and around the world, with new openings currently planned in Tokyo, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and more. A Proposal of Application Notice has been submitted to Belfast City Council, kickstarting the planning process for this proposed development.