MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL SIGNS AGREEMENT TO BRING EXPERIENTIAL MOXY BRAND TO TURKEY

Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu is expected to open in 2024 following a complete restoration of the historical Afrikahan building

DUBAI – March 3, 2022 – Marriott International, Inc. today announced it has signed an agreement with Venue International to debut Moxy Hotels in Turkey. Slated to open in 2024, the 168-room Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu will be located in the heart of the city within walking distance from Taksim Square – one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the area.

“We are excited to work with Venue International to debut the Moxy brand in Turkey,” said Begüm Kaya Şanver, Director Development, Turkey, Marriott International. “Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu will serve as a playful lifestyle hotel bringing a bold, spirited experience to the vibrant area of Beyoglu.”

Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu is expected to offer 168 stylish and cozy, yet smart bedrooms that have been designed to maximize every inch for today’s young-at-heart travellers. The hotel is set to feature playful Moxy spaces from the energetic lobby where guests are met by the welcoming crew, to its lively Living Room space ideal for day to night gatherings. In addition to its buzzing public spaces aimed to be the center of activity, Design plans for Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu include an industrial chic look, a fun grab-and-go concept, bold programming with local flavor, and communal tables offering plenty of opportunities to plug and play.

Kaan Namlıcı, Chairman of the Board, Venue International said, “We are excited to work with Marriott International to bring the first Moxy Hotel to Turkey. We have always believed in the potential of Moxy Hotels in this market but were keen to wait to introduce it in the right location. Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu will infuse an energetic urban vibe to the bohemian and dynamic character of the Beyoğlu area. The hotel will feature a unique blend of Afrikahan’s historic relevance and Moxy’s playful and stylish experience which is targeted at the next generation of travellers. I truly believe Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu will become one of the most vibrant venues in the city.”

Moxy Istanbul Beyoglu is slated to open following a complete restoration of the historical Afrikahan building that was built in 1905 during the era of Ottoman Empire Abdulhamid II, and was one of the three developments in Istanbul to represent the continents conquered by the Ottoman Empire. It was designed by the German architect August Jasmund who also designed the famous Sirkeci Railway Station, the eastern terminus of the world-famous Orient Express. Afrikahan was built as a residential building and hosted retail shops on the ground floor.

Marriott International’s portfolio in Turkey currently features more than 35 hotels and over 6,000 rooms across 18 of its brands, each serving differentiated experiences across traveler segments.