A perfect venue for all things MICE

Romie Dutt, Executive Director, Aamby Valley City and Hotel Sahara Star, highlights key points of why Hotel Sahara Star makes for a perfect for all things MICE, whether it is a corporate event or a wedding. The property also aligns with the vision of eco-conscious events and implements energy-efficient infrastructure throughout the hotel.

TT Bureau

What makes Hotel Sahara Star a great venue for MICE?

Hotel Sahara Star is undoubtedly the ideal venue for MICE events, offering an unbeatable combination of location, amenities, and expertise. Its strategic location near Mumbai’s domestic airport ensures convenience for both domestic and international travellers. With over 100,000 square feet of versatile banquet space, including our pillarless ballrooms and the exclusive Presidential Boardroom, we cater to a wide range of events, from intimate board meetings to large-scale corporate conferences and exhibitions.

Our magnificent tropical lagoon adds a tranquil atmosphere, providing the perfect backdrop for delegates to unwind between sessions. Our in-house team of dedicated event professionals works closely with corporates and event planners to bring their vision to life, ensuring every detail is meticulously handled, from organising grand seminars to smaller incentive programmes. We ensure a seamless execution of events with customised services that elevate the experience for our clients.

Are weddings also a big focus segment for you? If yes, why?

Absolutely. Weddings are a significant focus at Sahara Star, especially considering their cultural importance in India. Indian weddings are emotional, grand celebrations that bring families together, and we recognise the need for perfection in every detail. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand affair, our team of wedding specialists ensures every wedding is tailor-made to suit the couple’s preferences.

We offer 354 guest rooms, including 25 suites, providing ample space for wedding guests to stay and celebrate together. Our hotel features multiple banquet venues for smaller wedding functions and a magnificent tropical lagoon, which serves as a popular spot for pre-wedding photoshoots.

Additionally, our outdoor pool venue is a favourite spot for mehendi. We also provide a variety of amenities, including a recreational space for kids, a 7,000 sq ft gym for fitness enthusiasts, and a private preview theatre where families can come together and enjoy glimpses of their beautiful weddings. Our salon caters to all the wedding grooming needs, while our spa provides the perfect setting for post-wedding relaxation.

How important are travel agents and event planners/ MICE agents for you?

Travel agents, event planners, and MICE agents are essential partners for Sahara Star. They bring in business, especially for group bookings and corporate events, and help us align our services with client expectations. Their deep understanding of the market and client needs allows us to create personalised experiences, from coordinating logistics to organising customised itineraries. We work closely with these partners to provide tailored solutions for their clients and build long-term relationships that benefit both sides.

We have a number of B2B engagements planned for this year. Fam trips and hotel inspections are an integral part of our strategy. We also host quarterly event planner meets where we engage with our partners to discuss trends, gather feedback and explore collaborations. Our team actively participates in major industry events.

Are you getting a lot of inquiries/ bookings from smaller cities as well?

Yes, there has been a noticeable increase in inquiries and bookings from smaller cities. This is largely due to the rise of a growing aspirational class in these regions who are seeking luxury experiences for their weddings, corporate events and celebrations. The allure of Mumbai’s status as a financial hub and Sahara Star’s reputation for hosting grand, memorable events have made us a top choice for clients from smaller cities.

Please share your perspective on the importance of sustainability for hotels such as yours when it comes to MICE.

Businesses today prioritise eco-conscious events and we align with this vision by implementing energy-efficient infrastructure, waste management systems and using locally sourced ingredients. Our shift to paperless options, paper cups ensures that we minimise our environmental footprint while still offering luxurious experiences. Sustainability in MICE not only meets the growing demand for green practices but also enhances the overall experience.

Technology has become indispensable in the modern hospitality landscape, particularly for MICE events. It plays a pivotal role in enhancing guest experiences, ensuring seamless operations and meeting the growing demand for efficient, engaging and interactive events.

We have invested in cutting-edge solutions to ensure that every event runs smoothly and effectively. This includes high-speed internet connectivity, which is critical for both small and large-scale events and advanced audio-visual equipment that delivers exceptional presentations and broadcasts.

One of the most significant advantages of incorporating technology is the ability to host multi-location events with live streaming and real-time interaction between global attendees. This feature has become particularly important with the rise of hybrid events, where participants can engage both in person and virtually, making it easier to bridge geographical gaps and include wider audiences. Technology helps us provide world-class event experiences, positioning us as a top venue in the MICE sector while ensuring we remain adaptable to future trends and innovations.