SAMHI Hotels Acquires 70% Stake in RARE India for INR 470 Million
Filing Summary
SAMHI Hotels Limited has announced the acquisition of a 70% stake in RARE India, marking its first asset-light and experiential leisure investment. The transaction, valued at approximately INR 470 million, includes a primary infusion and partial share purchase. SAMHI and RARE have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Marriott International for exclusive rights to operate under the Outdoor Collection brand. This strategic move expands SAMHI’s portfolio to around 100 hotels and aligns with its strategy to diversify into high-growth segments while maintaining its core focus on business hotels.
SAMHI Hotels Limited has approved the acquisition of a majority stake of 70% in RARE India, a platform known for heritage hotels and experiential stays. This acquisition marks SAMHI’s entry into the asset-light and experiential leisure segment. The transaction was approved by the Board of Directors on 5th March 2026. SAMHI plans to finalize definitive agreements by May 2026, expanding its portfolio to approximately 100 hotels through ownership and affiliation models.
The financial commitment for this acquisition is approximately INR 470 million. This amount includes a primary capital infusion into RARE India and a partial purchase of shares from existing holders. The primary capital will be utilized to enhance management capabilities, upgrade technology and distribution, and expand marketing and brand reach to support RARE’s growth.
Operationally, SAMHI and RARE have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Marriott International. This agreement grants RARE exclusive rights to operate its hotel portfolio under the Outdoor Collection brand by Marriott Bonvoy across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. The affiliation aims to leverage Marriott’s global distribution and loyalty ecosystem, enhancing RARE’s market presence and operational capabilities.
The timeline for the acquisition involves entering into definitive agreements by May 2026. Post-acquisition, SAMHI expects to finalize agreements with Marriott International to solidify the operational framework under the Outdoor Collection brand. This timeline aligns with SAMHI’s strategic objectives to diversify its portfolio while maintaining its core focus on business hotels.
The entities involved in this transaction include SAMHI Hotels Limited, RARE India, and Marriott International. SAMHI will hold a 70% stake in RARE, which will continue to operate independently under its founder and existing team. Marriott International will provide global distribution support through its established channels.
In the context of market relevance, this acquisition allows SAMHI to diversify into the experiential leisure segment, which is experiencing significant growth. RARE India’s portfolio includes 67 hotels with 990 rooms across 15 states in India, as well as international presence in Nepal and Bhutan. This strategic move aligns with SAMHI’s objective to explore high-growth segments without altering its core balance sheet strategy.
Marriott International is a global hospitality company with a vast portfolio of brands and properties worldwide. The collaboration with RARE India aims to extend Marriott’s distribution platform to a curated collection of unique stays, enhancing its presence in the experiential and heritage-led hospitality segment.
SAMHI Hotels Limited is a branded hotel ownership and asset management platform in India. It operates under an institutional ownership model with long-term management arrangements with global hotel operators such as Marriott, IHG, and Hyatt. SAMHI’s strategic focus includes expanding its hotel portfolio in key office and gateway markets across India.