Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to expand its presence in Africa with the signing of Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom in Zimbabwe. The hotel, expected to open in late 2027, will be developed under a management agreement between a Hyatt affiliate and an affiliate of Albwardy Investments LLC.
Upon opening, the property will become the second Hyatt-branded hotel in Zimbabwe and will join the World of Hyatt portfolio, enabling members to earn and redeem loyalty benefits.
Originally built in 1966 and redeveloped in 1999, the hotel will undergo an extensive renovation and design transformation in line with the Grand Hyatt brand. Hyatt said the redevelopment will create a premium hospitality experience that reflects the destination’s heritage while introducing the brand’s signature service and design standards.
Located in the heart of Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke That Thunders’), the hotel will be within a five-minute walk of the Victoria Falls rainforest and offer convenient access to safari circuits, guided excursions, restaurants and cultural attractions.
Commenting on the signing, Ludwig Bouldoukian, Regional Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt, said, “We are delighted to collaborate with Albwardy Investments to bring the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls. With its landmark location just moments from the Victoria Falls rainforest, this property represents a truly exceptional setting. This signing marks a significant milestone in Hyatt’s continued expansion across Africa, reinforcing our commitment on growing our brand presence in the region and providing World of Hyatt members more travel choice in inspiring destinations.”
Ali Albwardy, Chairman, Albwardy Investments, added, “We are proud to collaborate with Hyatt on plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls. As one of the destination’s most established hospitality landmarks for more than 60 years, the property holds significant heritage and potential within Zimbabwe. Through its transformation under the Grand Hyatt brand, and with plans to reopen in late 2027, we aim to create an elevated hospitality experience that celebrates the culture, energy and significance of Victoria Falls, further reinforcing our commitment to Africa’s hospitality sector.”
The hotel is expected to feature 245 guestrooms, approximately 1,800 sq m of meeting and event space, three dining venues, a spa, fitness centre and a grand lobby lounge. Hyatt said the property will cater to both leisure and business travellers while offering a range of culinary, wellness and event experiences.
Situated closest to the entrance of Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side of the border, the hotel will also be approximately 20 minutes by road from Victoria Falls International Airport, enhancing its accessibility for domestic and international visitors.
