Historic Royal Hotel sold for R78-million
The new owner is Durban property mogul, Saantha Naidu owner of the Saantha Naidu Group.
ONE of Durban’s landmark venues, The Royal Hotel, was sold at auction yesterday for R78-million. The new owner of the history-rich hotel is none other than Durban property mogul, Saantha Naidu owner of the Saantha Naidu Group which is in charge of Coastalnds Umhlanga Hotel, Coastalnds on the Ridge Hotel, Coastlands Musgrave and various resorts.
The auction took place in the conference venue at the hotel and was well attended. The auction was run by Reliance Auctions which is based in Sandton.
The Royal Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in the country. Guests who have been accommodated in its rooms include British royalty, Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Anne.
Media reports indicate that the new owners will keep the hotel and are hoping to restore it to its standing as Durban’s premium Royal Hotel.
