Virginia’s Premier Family-Owned Hotel Developer Recognized for Outstanding Performance, Innovation, and Strategic Partnership in Growing Marriott’s Portfolio
RICHMOND, VA – SINA Hospitality, Virginia’s premier family-owned hotel developer, has been honored with the prestigious 2026 Developer of the Year Award by Marriott International. The international award recognizes SINA’s exceptional performance, innovative approach to hotel development, and strategic partnership in expanding Marriott’s global portfolio across key markets.
The Developer of the Year Award represents Marriott International’s highest recognition for hotel developers who demonstrate leadership in quality construction, design excellence, and successful execution of Marriott-branded projects. Recipients are acknowledged as industry trendsetters who set standards in hospitality development while significantly contributing to Marriott’s growth and success.
“Receiving the Developer of the Year Award from Marriott International is both humbling and deeply meaningful for our entire team,” said Ravi Patel, Chief Executive Officer of SINA Hospitality. “This recognition validates our commitment to excellence and reinforces our belief that doing business with integrity, never backing out of agreements, never abandoning projects, creates lasting value for everyone involved.”
SINA Hospitality’s track record with Marriott International began in 2013 and demonstrates the company’s development expertise across multiple brand segments. The family-owned company has delivered award-winning properties, including the 2016 Opening Hotel of the Year (Fairfield Inn & Suites Richmond Midlothian), the 2022 Best Opening Hotel of the Year (Fairfield Inn & Suites Louisville Expo Center), and the 2023 Richmond Region Tourism Hotel of the Year (SpringHill Suites Chester).
About SINA Hospitality
Founded in 1997, SINA Hospitality owns and operates 35 premium-branded hotels totaling more than 3,400 guest rooms across six states. The family-owned company partners with Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Carlson, and Best Western brands. The company serves on multiple hospitality industry advisory committees, including Marriott International’s Capital Asset Planning & Execution Committee and the Fairfield Inn & Suites Franchise Advisory Committee.
About the Developer of the Year Award
Marriott International’s Developer of the Year Award recognizes hotel developers and development companies that demonstrate outstanding performance, innovation, and partnership in growing Marriott’s portfolio. The award highlights leadership in high-quality building and design, successful execution of Marriott-branded projects, and strategic expansion of the brand’s presence in key markets worldwide.

