Hyatt appoints Vikas Chawla as President – India & Southwest Asia

New Delhi: Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the appointment of Vikas Chawla in the newly created senior role of President – India and Southwest Asia effective April 1, 2026.

The chain said it continues to expand its portfolio and pipeline across key urban and leisure destinations in India.

Chawla will report to David Udell, Group President, Asia Pacific at Hyatt. "The creation of this new senior leadership role reflects both the scale of opportunity we see in India and our commitment to this market," said Udell. "Over more than four decades, Hyatt has built a strong foundation in India. As we enter our next phase of growth, Vikas’ extensive experience and entrepreneurial leadership will bring the fresh knowledge, skills and abilities required at the top of our organization in India. His deep understanding of the Indian consumer will be pivotal to drive our strategic growth in this critical market as we accelerate our brand-led expansion and unlock new avenues for success."


With over 30 years of global leadership experience in food and beverage and consulting, Chawla will lead Hyatt's overall strategy, growth, and performance in India and Southwest Asia.

"I am incredibly excited to join Hyatt at such a dynamic moment in its growth journey in India,” said Vikas Chawla, President – India & Southwest Asia. "Hyatt’s strong brand portfolio, exceptional talent, and commitment to delivering meaningful guest experiences create tremendous opportunity. My ambition is to further develop Hyatt’s portfolio, making it the most preferred hospitality brand amongst discerning travelers in India, the best hospitality brand to work for in India, and to become a significant pillar of growth for Hyatt’s global portfolio.”

Hyatt said deals signed in 2025 contributing nearly 5,000 rooms to its India and Southwest Asia pipeline.

The chain has 55 hotels across nine brands spanning India and Southwest Asia. The first Destination by Hyatt property in Asia Pacific, Hari Bagh Jaipur, is set to debut in 2026.

Looking ahead, Hyatt said it plans to continue to strengthen its brand presence in key gateway markets such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, New Delhi and Hyderabad, while expanding into high growth, experience-led destinations across India and Southwest Asia—including leisure markets, spiritual hubs and select tier two and tier three cities.