Global hotel operator Minor Hotels has unveiled plans to open a 352-room property in Kota Kinabalu during the first quarter of 2027. The development, named Avani Kota Kinabalu, will bring the Avani brand to Sabah for the first time.

The property is being constructed within The Logg Luyang, an integrated mixed-use scheme created by developer KTI Landmark in the Luyang neighbourhood. Acting as the central hospitality element of the development, the property will offer accommodation, event venues, wellness spaces and dining options.

Situated roughly ten minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport by road, the site provides direct links to local commercial districts, housing areas and key tourist sites. The addition reinforces the group’s current portfolio in Malaysia, where it already operates the Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas in Johor.

“Kota Kinabalu is evolving rapidly as a regional business and tourism hub, creating strong demand for a hotel that can move easily between corporate, leisure and social use,” said Winston Gong, General Manager of Avani Kota Kinabalu. “Our focus will be on delivering an efficient, locally relevant guest experience while building a property with genuine appeal to the city’s residents.”

Architectural work for the project is being managed by Shah Architect, while SD2 is overseeing landscape architecture and INdulge is designing the interior spaces. Accommodation choices across the 352 rooms are planned to suit short visits, business trips and extended stays.

The complex will house five distinct food and drink venues. Options include an all-day dining restaurant offering Sabahan, Malaysian, Korean and international dishes alongside a Sunday lunch service. A Chinese restaurant will highlight regional Hakka culinary traditions, while a lobby lounge will offer daytime space before serving afternoon tea, cocktails and whiskies in the evening. A takeaway bakery called The Pantry and a rooftop venue, SEEN Restaurant & Bar, complete the offering.

Additional guest amenities will comprise an infinity swimming pool, an AvaniFit fitness centre and dedicated conference facilities for corporate or social gatherings. The nearby Tun Fuad Stephens Park will also give guests access to outdoor recreation space. The property forms part of Minor Hotels’ wider strategy to expand its lifestyle portfolio across growing markets in Asia.