Mombasa, Kenya – June 2025 – In a landmark expansion of its coastal portfolio, CityBlue Hotels, one of Africa’s fastest-growing homegrown hotel chains, has officially launched Kilua Residences by CityBlue—a luxury beachfront aparthotel situated along the scenic shores of Shanzu Beach in Mombasa. This new opening marks CityBlue’s second property in the city and its first ever beachfront development in Kenya.
The launch reflects the company’s broader strategy to offer diverse, premium hospitality experiences across East Africa’s key travel destinations, reinforcing its commitment to high-quality service and regional development.
Kilua Residences: Upscale Seaside Living in the Heart of Mombasa
Kilua Residences by CityBlue blends the privacy of apartment living with the luxury of resort-style amenities. This newly opened 4-star aparthotel features:
- Elegantly furnished 1 and 2-bedroom apartments
- Fully equipped kitchens and living areas for short- and long-term stays
- Sweeping sea views from select units
- Terrace spaces for outdoor relaxation and dining
Designed to international hospitality standards, the residences are ideal for leisure travelers, corporate guests, and families seeking an immersive coastal experience.
“Kilua Residences represents a major milestone for our brand and signals our unwavering belief in the growth and potential of Kenya’s coastal tourism market,” said Jameel Verjee, CEO of CityBlue Hotels.
World-Class Amenities for Modern Travelers
The property offers a full suite of resort-style amenities, including:
- A sparkling outdoor swimming pool
- A full-service spa offering wellness and therapeutic treatments
- A state-of-the-art fitness center
- A dedicated children’s playground
- Round-the-clock concierge services
The residence’s beachfront location also ensures easy access to Mombasa’s cultural sites, marine parks, shopping hubs, and restaurants, making it ideal for both holidaymakers and business travelers.
Strategic Growth in Mombasa’s Hospitality Landscape
The opening of Kilua Residences builds on the success of CityBlue Creekside Hotel & Suites, the group’s flagship Mombasa property located along the tidal Tudor Creek. Opened in December 2017, Creekside has become a staple in Mombasa’s urban hospitality scene with:
- Over 100 guest rooms and suites
- On-site dining facilities
- Fitness and wellness amenities
- Meeting and event spaces
Together, Kilua Residences and Creekside offer two distinct yet complementary accommodation experiences—urban convenience and coastal serenity—solidifying CityBlue’s position as a top-tier hospitality provider on Kenya’s coast.
Development Backed by Gulf Homes Management Partnership
The Kilua project is the result of a joint venture between CityBlue Hotels and Gulf Homes Management Limited, a key real estate development player in the region.
“We are incredibly proud to see Kilua Residences by CityBlue come to life,” said Samir Shahbal, Director of Gulf Homes Management. “This property reflects our commitment to crafting desirable and high-quality developments in Mombasa. Together with CityBlue, we’ve created a destination that offers both comfort and distinction.”
This partnership merges world-class hospitality management with real estate development expertise, setting the stage for future collaborations across Kenya and beyond.
Strengthening Mombasa’s Position as a Premium Tourism Hub
The opening of Kilua Residences comes at a time when Kenya’s coastal tourism is witnessing renewed momentum. According to data from the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), the coastal region continues to attract both international and domestic visitors, drawn by its:
- Beautiful beaches and marine biodiversity
- Rich Swahili heritage
- Proximity to national parks and historic sites
- Improved air and road connectivity
Mombasa has also become a hub for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) tourism, making serviced apartment-style accommodations increasingly relevant.
CityBlue Hotels: A Vision for African Hospitality
Founded with a mission to create authentic, African-born hospitality experiences, CityBlue Hotels operates a growing portfolio across:
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Zambia
The brand emphasizes:
- Local empowerment and employment
- Smart design with global standards
- Affordable luxury for modern travelers
Kilua Residences is a continuation of this vision, offering a product tailored for the flexible traveler—someone who values privacy, autonomy, and coastal beauty wrapped in high-end comfort.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Coastal Luxury Living in Mombasa
With the launch of Kilua Residences by CityBlue, the hotel group has taken a significant step forward in redefining luxury beachside accommodation in Kenya. By combining the comfort of apartment living with the amenities of a resort, Kilua sets a new benchmark for hospitality on the Kenyan coast.
Whether you’re planning a short seaside escape, a long-term business stay, or a family retreat, Kilua Residences by CityBlue offers a seamless blend of luxury, location, and lifestyle—right at the water’s edge.
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