UAE hotel groups expand luxury footprint across Africa

Gulf hospitality groups are investing heavily in Africa’s tourism sector, with Bloomberg reporting on firms targeting both ultra-luxury and mid-market segments on the continent. The investment focus comes amid growing consumer demand for wellness experiences and adventurous travel. Africa is also seeing an increasing focus from Gulf nations as traditional sources of lending, like China, the US, and Europe, pull back.

Major investors include Dubai’s Jumeirah Group, which launched its Privé collection with a USD 50k/night private island resort in Tanzania’s marine reserve. Qatar’s Kasada Capital Management also has holdings in 19 hotels on the continent.