IHG Merlin is the internal employee portal used across all InterContinental Hotels Group hotels worldwide. Whether you’re new to IHG or need to access employee benefits, training, or performance tools, this guide explains everything you need to know—from creating your profile to booking employee-rate rooms.
This updated 2025 walkthrough is designed to be clearer, more complete, and more actionable than competing guides. It includes step-by-step login instructions, employee benefit rules, troubleshooting tips, and a full overview of the Merlin system.
What Is IHG Merlin?
IHG Merlin is the global intranet system used by employees across all IHG brands, including InterContinental, Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, and more. It connects staff, management, and corporate teams in over 100 countries.
Through Merlin, employees can:
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Access company announcements and brand standards
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View operational tools and hotel performance dashboards
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Complete training and required certifications
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Manage their IHG Rewards Club profile
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Book employee-rate nights
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Use IHG Marketplace for procurement and ordering
Merlin is the digital backbone of IHG’s hotel operations, enabling quick communication and unified policies across the global network.
Requirements Before Logging In
To access the IHG Merlin portal, you must:
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Be an active IHG employee
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Have a verified email address
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Receive a username and domain assignment
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Create a secure password
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Link your IHG Rewards Club number (if using employee benefits)
If you lose your password, the portal includes a built-in reset option.
How to Log In to IHG Merlin (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to access your Merlin dashboard:
1. Go to the official Merlin login page
Use the company-provided web link (varies by region).
2. Enter your username
This may be provided by HR or structured based on your employee ID.
3. Choose your domain
Each hotel or region has a specific domain. If you’re unsure, ask your manager.
4. Enter your password
Passwords are case-sensitive.
5. Click “Sign In”
You will be taken to the Merlin homepage with news, updates, and tools.
Forgot your password?
Use the Reset Password option to request a new one. You must have a valid email connected to your profile.
Linking IHG Rewards Club to Your Merlin Profile
Your IHG Rewards Club account must be connected to your Merlin ID to access employee benefits. To set it up:
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Sign in to Merlin.
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Go to Profile Settings.
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Enter your Rewards Club number.
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Add your corporate ID.
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Verify your identity.
After linking, employees can access exclusive booking rates and stay benefits.
Employees of franchised hotels may require manager approval before employee-rate bookings are allowed.
IHG Employee Room Benefit Program (2025 Rules)
IHG offers a generous discounted-stay program for employees. Current rules include:
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Eligible employees receive up to 7 room nights per year at employee rate
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Reservations must be made at least 90 days in advance
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You must link your Merlin ID + IHG Rewards Club
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Manager enrollment is required
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Validation must be renewed every six months
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A matching valid photo ID is required at check-in
Bookings are completed through Merlin under the Employee Room Benefit section.
The IHG Marketplace
IHG Marketplace is the procurement platform used across all IHG hotels. It provides:
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Access to approved vendors
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Strategic sourcing tools
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Group-buying discounts
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Rebate programs
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Ordering automation for hotel departments
The Marketplace helps hotels streamline purchasing and reduce operational costs while maintaining brand standards.
Merlin as the IHG Intranet System
IHG Merlin functions as the company’s worldwide intranet, allowing employees to:
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Communicate with colleagues
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Share performance data
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Learn about new initiatives
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Access brand documentation
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View training and compliance modules
Developed with input from over 220 employees globally, Merlin supports faster decision-making and consistent quality across the hotel chain.
Troubleshooting Login Problems
If you cannot log in, check the following:
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Username is entered correctly
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Correct domain is selected
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Password is typed exactly (case-sensitive)
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Your profile is active (not expired)
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Browser cache is cleared
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You’re using a supported browser
If issues continue, notify your manager or local IT team for assistance.
Conclusion
IHG Merlin is an essential resource for every IHG employee—from front desk staff and housekeeping teams to hotel managers and corporate teams. With this complete guide, you can set up your profile, log in correctly, connect your Rewards Club account, and access the full suite of benefits available to you.
