Summary: IHG will open InterContinental Port Moresby in late 2028 — the brand’s first property in Papua New Guinea — bringing 179 rooms, extensive meeting space and a focus on sustainability to the capital’s diplomatic district.

IHG Hotels & Resorts has confirmed plans to introduce InterContinental Port Moresby in late 2028. The new property will be the first InterContinental-branded hotel in Papua New Guinea and is intended to raise the city’s profile among luxury and business travellers.

Strengthening hospitality infrastructure in Papua New Guinea

Positioned in Port Moresby’s diplomatic precinct, the InterContinental will be located close to key government buildings, foreign embassies and the National Parliament House. The hotel will offer 179 guest rooms and aims to serve visiting dignitaries, corporate travellers and international guests.

A boost for luxury and business travel

The arrival of a global five‑star brand is expected to expand Papua New Guinea’s appeal to higher‑spending visitors and meeting planners. InterContinental Port Moresby will present upgraded facilities intended to attract conferences, corporate events and affluent leisure travellers to the Pacific nation.

  • 179 guest rooms
  • Multiple dining venues
  • Fitness centre
  • More than 600 square metres of meeting and event space
  • Prime location near government offices, embassies and the National Parliament House

Introducing a branded luxury hotel is part of a broader push to diversify accommodation options in Papua New Guinea, where upscale inventory has historically been limited. The new property is expected to help position Port Moresby as a competitive venue for international gatherings and upscale travel within the Pacific region.

Rendering of the planned InterContinental Port Moresby hotel in the diplomatic district
An artist’s rendering of InterContinental Port Moresby, planned for Port Moresby’s diplomatic precinct

Economic and employment impact

IHG and local stakeholders expect the development to generate substantial local economic benefits. The hotel’s operation will create direct roles within hospitality and management, alongside indirect opportunities for suppliers, transport providers and tourism operators.

  • Direct employment for hotel staff and management
  • Business for local suppliers and contractors
  • Increased demand for restaurants, transport and tour operators
  • New opportunities for event organisers and meeting services

Sustainability and cultural connection

Sustainability is a stated priority for IHG in the project. Plans include sourcing local materials, supporting green initiatives and engaging with the community to reduce environmental impact while delivering international standards of service.

The hotel will also place emphasis on cultural authenticity by incorporating Papua New Guinean traditions into its design and guest experiences, and by working with local artisans and cultural groups to deepen visitor engagement with the country’s heritage.

What this means for travellers and the industry

For travellers, the new InterContinental will increase high‑end accommodation choices in Port Moresby and offer improved facilities for business trips and events. For the hospitality sector and local economy, the hotel represents both an investment in infrastructure and a catalyst for broader tourism development across Papua New Guinea.

So what? The InterContinental Port Moresby will make Papua New Guinea more accessible to luxury and corporate travellers, create jobs, and support a shift toward sustainable, culture‑led tourism — trends travellers and industry stakeholders should monitor as the 2028 opening approaches.