Amidst Cuba's severe economic turmoil, MGM Muthu Hotels has embarked on an ambitious promotional campaign for its exclusive hotel in Havana, presenting it as "a luxurious haven" nestled in the heart of the Cuban capital. This resort, situated in one of the city's most iconic areas, aims to provide guests with a unique experience that blends comfort, exclusivity, and the cultural allure of Cuba, starkly contrasting with the economic hardship faced by most Cubans.
Located just a 15-minute drive from José Martí International Airport and near landmarks such as the Malecón, the hotel boasts modern accommodations with stunning views, complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, cable TV, a safe, and a minibar, according to a post shared by Muthu Hotels on their Facebook profile.
The hotel also offers a high-end culinary experience, leisure facilities including a pool, gym, and spa, alongside contemporary event spaces. However, this image of opulence sharply contrasts with the harsh economic reality that the majority of Cubans endure.
Despite expanding its presence with at least 10 hotels across Cuba, MGM Muthu Hotels faces criticism regarding the relevance of its business model in a nation where most citizens lack access to basic goods and services. The controversy has deepened following the recent opening of a supermarket within the hotel's premises.
Opened in January 2025, this store operates exclusively in U.S. dollars, accepting cash payments or cards linked to foreign currency accounts. It offers a wide range of products, from groceries and personal care items to household appliances, but its prices are considered unaffordable for the majority of Cubans, whose minimum wage is 2,100 CUP (approximately 6.67 USD at the informal exchange rate of 315 CUP per dollar).
The situation is exacerbated by the supermarket's refusal to give change in dollar coins, as these do not circulate in Cuba. Instead, customers receive candies or cookies as change, a practice criticized for echoing past monetary exchange methods deemed exploitative by many.
The supermarket's opening has been viewed as a reflection of the partial dollarization of the Cuban economy, prioritizing sales in foreign currency while the majority of the population, who earn their wages in Cuban pesos, struggle to access essential products.
This scenario has sparked outrage and debate on social media, where the fairness and accessibility of such establishments are questioned in light of the island's current economic landscape.
Understanding the Economic Impact of MGM Muthu's Havana Hotel
How does MGM Muthu Hotels' promotion of its Havana hotel contrast with Cuba's economic reality?
MGM Muthu Hotels promotes its Havana hotel as a luxurious escape, which stands in stark contrast to the economic hardships faced by most Cubans who lack access to basic goods and services.
What controversy surrounds the supermarket within the MGM Muthu hotel?
The supermarket, which only accepts U.S. dollars, has sparked controversy due to its high prices, unaffordable for most Cubans, and the practice of giving candies or cookies instead of dollar change.