Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the appointment of Vikas Chawla as President, India & Southwest Asia, a newly created role aimed at accelerating growth and strengthening its brand presence in one of its most strategic markets.
The move underscores Hyatt’s increasing focus on India, where it continues to expand its portfolio and pipeline across key urban and leisure destinations.
Leadership focus for a high-growth market
In his new role, Chawla will oversee Hyatt’s overall strategy, growth and performance across India and Southwest Asia. A seasoned entrepreneur with over three decades of global leadership experience in food and beverage and consulting, he is expected to drive the next phase of expansion in the region.
He will report to Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Asia Pacific Group President, David Udell.
Strengthening India strategy
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Asia Pacific Group President, David Udell, said: “The creation of this new senior leadership role reflects both the scale of opportunity we see in India and our commitment to this market.”
He added that Hyatt’s strong foundation in India, built over more than four decades, will be further strengthened by Chawla’s entrepreneurial leadership and deep understanding of the Indian consumer.
Growth ambitions and market opportunity
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, President, India & Southwest Asia, Vikas Chawla, said: “My ambition is to further develop Hyatt’s portfolio, making it the most preferred hospitality brand amongst discerning travellers in India and a key growth pillar for Hyatt globally.”
India remains one of the most dynamic growth markets for Hyatt in the Asia Pacific region, driven by rising middle-class demand for premium travel, luxury experiences and differentiated dining.
This momentum is reflected in Hyatt’s development pipeline, with deals signed in 2025 adding nearly 5,000 rooms across India and Southwest Asia.
Expanding footprint and brand portfolio
Hyatt currently operates 55 hotels across nine brands in India and Southwest Asia and continues to scale its presence across segments.
The company is also set to introduce the Destination by Hyatt brand in the Asia Pacific region, with Hari Bagh Jaipur scheduled to debut in 2026. The property will mark Hyatt’s third hotel in Jaipur and its second collection brand in India.
Focus on emerging destinations
Looking ahead, Hyatt plans to deepen its presence in key gateway cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, New Delhi and Hyderabad, while also expanding into high-growth leisure and experience-led destinations.
These include spiritual hubs and emerging tier-two and tier-three cities, supported by strong domestic travel demand and evolving consumer preferences.