Over the weekend, a bit of bad news came my way – the InterContinental Hotel in Singapore is leaving the IHG network.While it looks as though it will still operate as a hotel, it will not be an InterContinental from 1 January 2026.
Leaving on 1 January 2026
Over the weekend, members with upcoming stays received an email containing the bad news:
We are writing to inform you that the InterContinental Singapore will no longer be a part IHG Hotels & Resorts family of hotels effective January 01, 2026. The hotel assured that they will still honor your reservation scheduled for [redacted]. Please note, however, that IHG One Rewards benefits, including earning of points, will not be honored for this visit.We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and truly appreciate your understanding and continued loyalty as an IHG® One Rewards Diamond Elite Ambassador member.
Should you have any questions, wish to make changes to your reservation, or would like assistance in selecting another IHG Hotels & Resorts property, our team would be delighted to assist you. You may reach us on +61 2 9926 9889 or visit us at www.ihg.com.
The email indicates that while the hotel will continue to operate, it will not be as an InterContinental. However, there is no information on it joining another chain, or continuing to operate as an independent hotel. I guess we will have to wait and see on that matter.
IHG did suggest some alternate hotels – InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay and Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. I have stayed at all three of the hotels, and the InterContinental Singapore (in Bugis) was definitely my favourite of the three. I prefer it both as a hotel, and for its location.
Final Words
Hotels moving between brands (known as reflagging) is fairly common in the hotel industry. Hotel owners may decide for one reason or another to move to a different operator. The unfortunate side effect is that anyone that has booked may not receive the benefits they were expecting.
Over the years, I have had many a pleasant stay at the InterContinental Singapore – it was one of my favourite hotels in Singapore. As an Ambassador member, they have looked after me quite well. In fact, I have used my Ambassador weekend night voucher there on many an occasion.
Of course, it is possible that it will turn up as a brand in another loyalty program. At the moment, there is no word on the street about what exactly is happening on that front.
