Marriott International, Inc. has announced an ambitious plan to expand its footprint across Africa with the addition of over 50 new properties and 9,000+ rooms by the end of 2027. This expansion will introduce Marriott into five new African markets: Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, and Mauritania.
With nearly 150 hotels currently operating across 20 African countries under 22 brands, Marriott’s push aims to capture growing demand for quality hospitality in both established and emerging markets.
“Africa’s tourism sector is being redefined by infrastructure development, regional integration, and diversified travel,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer for Europe, Middle East & Africa. “Marriott is uniquely positioned to support this transformation through our brand portfolio and Marriott Bonvoy.”
Growth Driven by Premium & Select-Service Brands
The expansion will be led by Protea Hotels by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, and Courtyard by Marriott, as consumer demand increases for reliable, design-forward, and flexible hospitality options. More than 30% of the new additions will stem from conversions and adaptive reuse projects, highlighting a trend toward revitalizing existing properties.
Top growth markets include:
- Tanzania, Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, and Nigeria, together accounting for over half of the planned openings within the next two years.
- Branded residences are also seeing increasing traction across the continent.
“We see opportunities from safari circuits to business hubs,” said Karim Cheltout, SVP Development, Middle East & Africa. “Our wide range of brands helps developers deliver tailored, high-quality travel experiences.”
Regional Highlights
North & East Africa: 60% of Planned Growth
- Egypt: Expected debut of Aloft Hotels with Aloft Ghazala Bay (2027) and several conversion projects.
- Morocco: Debut of AC Hotels by Marriott in Casablanca (2027).
- Kenya & Tanzania: Six safari properties including The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp and Mapito Safari Camp, Autograph Collection in Serengeti (2025). Kenya will also see two Courtyard by Marriott openings in Nairobi.
- Uganda: Debut of Marriott Hotel Kampala and Marriott Executive Apartments Kampala by end of 2025.
West Africa: New Markets & Brand Expansion
- Nigeria: Six new properties including Courtyard by Marriott Abuja and new Protea and Marriott Hotels.
- Cape Verde: Debut with Four Points by Sheraton Sao Vicente Resort (2025).
- Côte d’Ivoire: Entry via Autograph Collection Hotel in Assinie-Mafia (2027).
- Mauritania: Debut with Sheraton Hotel Nouakchott (2025).
Southern & Central Africa: Steady Pipeline
- South Africa: Expansion of Autograph Collection with Morea House, Cape Town (2025) and a Kruger National Park property (2026).
- DRC: Entry with Protea Hotel by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton in Kinshasa (2025).
- Madagascar: Entry with Delta Hotels by Marriott Antananarivo (2025) and a Protea Hotel (2026).
- Cameroon: Le Méridien brand to debut in 2027.
A Strategic Play for Africa’s Tourism Future
As Africa undergoes economic diversification and tourism-driven transformation, Marriott’s multi-brand strategy positions it to serve a wide range of travelers—from luxury safari-goers to business executives. The company’s growth aligns with key government development goals and rising international travel demand.
With this expansion, Marriott strengthens its commitment to the continent and is set to shape the next chapter in Africa’s hospitality landscape.
