Our Story
The Origin of the Name “LuxuryStay”
When Muhammad Ilyas first envisioned a place where guests could experience unparalleled comfort without losing the warmth of home, he chose the name LuxuryStay. “Luxury” reflects the high standards and opulence—the polished brass fixtures, the bespoke furniture, the curated art collection—while “Stay” evokes the sense of belonging, inviting travelers to pause, relax, and connect with the soul of Karachi. It’s a name that bridges grandeur with genuineness, promising that each guest will leave refreshed and enriched.
Meet the Visionary: Muhammad Ilyas
Born into a close-knit Memon family, Muhammad Ilyas grew up hearing tales of entrepreneurship, perseverance, and faith. From a young age he dreamed of creating spaces that transcended lodging—places that became landmarks of cultural pride and social harmony. After years learning every facet of hospitality—from guesthouse housekeeping to boutique front-desk management—he returned to Lyari, determined to transform his childhood neighborhood.
Family Legacy of Strength & Compassion
Father: Muhammad Shabbir was a skilled carpenter whose meticulous craftsmanship taught Ilyas that every detail matters, from the grain of a wooden headboard to the warmth of a greeting at check-in.
Mother: The family’s heartbeat, extended legendary hospitality in her home—her recipes for samosas and chai now inspire LuxuryStay’s in-room dining.
Grandmother: Lived through tumultuous times and shared ancestral songs and remedies. Today, her handwritten notes adorn our lounge, honoring her wisdom and heritage.
Journey of Migration
In 1947, amid Partition, the family left their ancestral home in Gujarat, India, carrying little but faith. They settled in Lyari, forging new lives despite hardship. Their resilience now forms the bedrock of LuxuryStay—a proud symbol of triumph over adversity.
Embracing Memon Traditions
- Charitable Outreach: A portion of each booking supports local schools and clinics.
- Community Engagement: Weekly Q&A breakfasts invite neighbors to share ideas.
- Ethical Hospitality: Halal kitchens and dedicated prayer spaces ensure guests observe faith with ease.
A Haven in Lyari
Inspired by Mughal motifs and contemporary minimalism, each suite bears a family virtue—“Patience,” “Compassion,” “Fortitude”—and handcrafted textiles. Rooftop gardens offer panoramic views of Karachi’s skyline, a tribute to the sunsets once seen from village courtyards.
Why LuxuryStay Matters
LuxuryStay is more than a building; it’s a legacy:
- Heritage Preserved: Honoring our migration stories and cultural fusion.
- Family Bonds: Upholding the values of Zubaida, Razia, and Shabbir.
- Community Uplift: Revitalizing Lyari through employment and outreach.
- Personalized Hospitality: Ensuring every guest feels seen, valued, and at home.
Meet the Partner: Muhammad Ayub
Muhammad Ayub, Ilyas’s childhood confidant, brings over a decade of financial expertise to LuxuryStay. Growing up together in Lyari, they shared dreams of uplifting their community. Ayub’s tenure at leading Karachi finance firms honed his skills in budgeting and strategic investment. His vision for LuxuryStay’s expansion and his meticulous financial planning have been pivotal in turning Ilyas’s dream into a sustainable reality. Today, as co-owner and Chief Financial Officer, Ayub ensures that LuxuryStay thrives economically while staying true to its community-driven mission.
Meet the Partner: Abdul Hadi
Abdul Hadi, a longtime friend and tech innovator, leads LuxuryStay’s digital and marketing initiatives. With a background in app development and digital strategy, Hadi crafted the hotel’s seamless booking platform and vibrant social media presence. His passion for storytelling through visuals and user-centric design reflects in every guest interaction online. As Chief Technology & Marketing Officer, Hadi blends innovation with hospitality, ensuring LuxuryStay remains at the forefront of guest engagement and brand experience.