Accor and the Arora Group break ground on the highly anticipated Sofitel Dublin Airport. This luxurious addition to Ireland’s main international gateway is expected to open its doors by late 2026, offering travelers an elevated experience right next to Terminal 2.
With 412 elegantly designed rooms and suites, Sofitel Dublin Airport promises to set new standards in hospitality. The hotel will cater to discerning travelers with a range of upscale amenities, including an all-day dining restaurant, a sophisticated tea salon, and an exclusive sky bar on the 11th floor. Here, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Dublin Airport and its surroundings, making it a unique vantage point for both locals and travelers alike.
This franchised development, led by the Arora Group, represents a significant investment in Dublin’s hospitality landscape. Known for their expertise in airport hotels, the Arora Group also operates the Sofitel London Heathrow and Sofitel London Gatwick, making this their third collaboration with Accor. Arora secured the rights to develop this over €100 million project after a competitive bidding process conducted by the Dublin Airport Authority (daa) in 2018.
The new Sofitel will connect directly to Terminal 2, allowing seamless access for travelers passing through Dublin Airport, which handles more than 31 million passengers annually. The hotel’s strategic location, just 7 kilometers from Dublin’s city center, makes it convenient for both transit passengers and visitors looking to explore the city.
Sébastien Bazin, CEO & Chairman of Accor, expressed enthusiasm about expanding Accor’s presence in Ireland, noting the country’s attractive tourism market and welcoming culture. “Together with our valued and trusted project partner, Arora Group, we see a significant opportunity to support the Irish tourism sector with more high-quality hospitality experiences,” he said, highlighting the importance of this addition to the Accor portfolio.
Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel, Sofitel Legend, MGallery, and Emblems, remarked that Sofitel Dublin Airport will represent the brand’s first hotel in Ireland, bringing a blend of French luxury and local charm to Irish shores. This milestone, she said, strengthens the connection between Ireland and France while promoting sustainable luxury and heartfelt service.
Travelers passing through Dublin Airport can look forward to an array of exclusive amenities at the Sofitel. Beyond its culinary offerings, the hotel will feature an executive lounge, a fitness center, and extensive meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom and eight adaptable meeting rooms. These facilities aim to serve both leisure and business travelers, offering a sophisticated environment for events and gatherings.
Surinder Arora, Founder & Chairman of the Arora Group, shared his excitement for the group’s first hotel project outside the United Kingdom, emphasizing the personal significance of this development. He also noted the pleasure of working with daa and Sofitel Hotels & Resorts on this groundbreaking project.
Kenny Jacobs, CEO of daa, echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism about the impact of Sofitel Dublin Airport on travelers and the local economy. He noted that the construction and operation of the hotel will create hundreds of jobs, benefitting local suppliers and enhancing travel options at Dublin Airport.
Expected to open in late 2026, Sofitel Dublin Airport is poised to redefine the travel experience in Ireland, combining luxury, convenience, and a touch of French elegance for visitors to Dublin. This project marks a new chapter in the partnership between Accor and Arora, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to elevating airport hospitality standards.
