Gheorghe Hagi is preparing a major transformation of the Iaki hotel in Mamaia, having obtained a permit for the demolition of three buildings within the complex and for developing a beach area, a business decision that coincides with the public consultation launched by authorities regarding new hotel classification criteria.
According to the publication Gândul, the former athlete received demolition approval for buildings C1, C2, and C3 of the four-star hotel, with the permit valid until the summer of 2028. This step follows the modernization of the complex’s historic wing in 2025, which received an investment of over EUR 2 million. Currently, Hotel Iaki — acquired in 1999 under the name Hotel București and renamed in 2001 — features 122 rooms and suites (244 beds). The operating company reported a turnover of approximately EUR 4.57 million (RON 24 million) in 2025, down from EUR 5.04 million (RON 26.5 million) in 2024. At the same time, on August 13, 2026, a permit was issued for developing a beach and a beach bar for Hagi Sport SRL, at an awarded fee of EUR 31.4 thousand per year (RON 165,195.60, excluding VAT). The beach sector area shows discrepancies in the provided data, reported as either over 7,000 square meters or 17,195 square meters. Hagi, whose net worth is estimated at EUR 35 million, also owns land valued at EUR 10 million, received following a historical loan of EUR 62.1 thousand (USD 72,500) granted to Gigi Becali.
In parallel, the Ministry of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship and Tourism, led by Irineu Darău, initiated the revision of tourism classification norms. The new framework proposes eliminating physical paperwork and the mandatory Trade Register (ONRC) certificate, promoting digitalization through QR codes and updated websites, requiring EV charging stations, ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities, and extending the remediation deadline for minor deficiencies to 15 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes are planned for Hotel Iaki in Mamaia?
Hotel Iaki plans to demolish three of its buildings (C1, C2, C3) under a permit valid until summer 2028 and develop a private beach sector with a beach bar.
Who owns Hotel Iaki and what is its accommodation capacity?
Hotel Iaki is owned by Romanian football legend Gheorghe Hagi and currently features 122 rooms and suites accommodating 244 guests.
What are the main proposed changes in Romania’s hotel classification standards?
The revised regulations propose full digitalization of paperwork, mandatory EV charging stations, improved disability access, and a 15-day grace period to fix minor deficiencies.