SC Capital Holding Eyes Cyprus for Multi-Asset Hospitality Expansion: An Interview with CEO Simo Chaabani

As SC Capital Holding AG positions itself at the forefront of sustainable luxury hospitality in the Mediterranean, Cyprus has emerged as a central focus of its latest growth strategy. In this exclusive interview, CEO Simo Chaabani discusses the firm’s upcoming entry into the Cypriot market, not as a one-off transaction but as part of a broader commitment to multiple hotel acquisitions and developments across the island. With a strong sustainability ethos and a high-performing team driving its success, SC Capital Holding is ready to redefine the Cypriot hospitality landscape.

Q: SC Capital Holding is making a bold entry into Cyprus. Can you tell us why the island is such a key strategic focus?

Simo Chaabani: Cyprus presents a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and market opportunity. It’s a well-connected destination that draws millions of tourists each year, and yet many of its luxury hospitality assets are under-optimized. That’s where we add the most value—by revitalizing assets with strong fundamentals and repositioning them for long-term value. Importantly, our plans for Cyprus go beyond a single hotel. We are actively exploring multiple acquisitions and ground-up developments throughout the island.

Q: So this is just the beginning for SC Capital Holding in Cyprus?

Simo Chaabani: Absolutely. The current transaction is in late-stage discussions, but it’s only one piece of a larger portfolio strategy. Our vision is to establish a collection of assets that together elevate the luxury hospitality standard in Cyprus.

Q: What makes SC Capital Holding’s approach to hospitality stand out in a competitive market?

Simo Chaabani: Our approach considers the full lifecycle of the asset. We don’t just buy properties; we transform them. We integrate sustainability at every level, from infrastructure and energy systems to guest experience and operational efficiency. Each asset undergoes a comprehensive upgrade guided by our “internal sustainability roadmap,” targeting certifications like LEED Gold or BREEAM Excellent. We also bring in advanced technology and tailored management frameworks that drive consistent results across geographies.

Q: Could you elaborate more on that green roadmap and the specific targets you aim to hit?

Simo Chaabani: Certainly. Our roadmap includes achieving at least 40% renewable energy adoption through solar and battery systems, a 30% reduction in water usage, and a 75% waste diversion rate through composting and recycling partnerships. This isn’t just about ESG compliance; it’s about redefining what modern luxury means. Guests today expect comfort, yes, but also purpose. And we aim to meet both without compromise.

Q: What kind of technology are you implementing to enhance both sustainability and guest satisfaction?

Simo Chaabani: We deploy our proprietary Smart-Stay suite, which includes AI-powered energy management, contactless guest interfaces, and predictive maintenance tools to ensure smooth operations and minimize disruptions. These technologies enable us to operate with greater precision and lower cost, while also giving guests a seamless, modern experience. Efficiency and elegance are not mutually exclusive; they can and should reinforce one another.

Q: How is the Cyprus project being financed, and what’s the timeline?

Simo Chaabani: Even though we have access to capital through several European financial partners, we are going to raise financing for our Cypriot project locally, as part of our commitment to supporting and contributing to the local economy. If everything proceeds as expected, we aim to close the transaction by Q4 2025 and begin phased renovations shortly after, with the goal of unveiling the reimagined property in time for the 2027 high season.

Q: Given the scale of your plans, what do you consider the most important factor in executing them successfully?

Simo Chaabani: Without a doubt, our team. I often say that I may be the public face of the company, but the real strength, the driving force behind every acquisition, every transformation, is our team. We have one of the most diverse and experienced leadership groups in global hospitality. Their expertise in real estate, finance, operations, branding, and engineering allows us to move quickly and decisively. Their collaborative mindset ensures that every project benefits from deep, multidisciplinary insight.

Q: What role do local partnerships play in your Cyprus expansion strategy?

Simo Chaabani: They’re essential. We believe in building strong local ecosystems. That means working with vocational training institutes to develop future hospitality talent, partnering with local suppliers and contractors, and maintaining an open dialogue with community leaders. Our projects are not just investments; they’re long-term commitments to the places we operate in.

Conclusion

SC Capital Holding’s expansion into Cyprus is far more than a real estate play; it’s a vision of how sustainable, community-integrated luxury hospitality should evolve in the modern era. With multiple acquisitions and developments planned, a clear sustainability framework, and one of the industry’s most capable teams driving execution, the firm is set to make a transformative impact on the Cypriot tourism landscape. As Simo Chaabani puts it, “The destination is right, and the team—our greatest asset—is ready to deliver.”

For more information, visit: www.sccapitalholding.ch.