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Radisson capitalizes on Africa for its expansion

Monday, 4 May 20263 min read
Radisson capitalizes on Africa for its expansion

Radisson Hotel Group has passed the 100-hotel mark across Africa, combining properties in operation and under development, as it accelerates expansion toward its 2030 targets.

The Radisson Blu brand continues to anchor the company’s legacy footprint, while Radisson is the fastest-growing flag, driven by conversions and a solid pipeline translating into new openings.

Over the past 12 months, the group signed more than 15 hotels totaling about 2,500 rooms, including entries into new markets such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe. Over five years, Radisson and Radisson Blu have ranked among the most active brands on the continent, delivering one of the highest shares of openings.

Core growth markets remain Morocco, South Africa, and Nigeria, where the company is deepening its presence and broadening brand distribution.

Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer, said the milestone reflects disciplined execution and strong owner relationships. He added that the next phase will focus on Morocco and Nigeria while reinforcing South Africa through an active construction pipeline.

Nigeria illustrates the model’s resilience, with 13 hotels open or in development. Abuja leads current expansion, with three projects totaling 458 rooms.

In South Africa, Radisson is refining its strategy with a focus on Cape Town, growth in secondary cities like Durban and Pretoria, and expansion into leisure corridors such as Kruger National Park, Sun City, and the Garden Route.

The group is also targeting Zanzibar and exploring safari and lodge opportunities in Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia to meet rising demand for nature-based travel.

Conversions Fuel Growth

Conversions remain a key driver of speed and scale. Over the past five years, more than 15 hotels—nearly 3,000 rooms—joined the portfolio through conversion, enabling faster market entry while maintaining brand standards.

Recent signings reflect a balanced mix of city hotels, resorts, and conversion projects across Africa.

– Democratic Republic of Congo
Radisson is entering the market with several properties. The Radisson Blu Hotel in Kinshasa, opening in late 2026, will feature 110 rooms in the Gombe district, with dining outlets, wellness facilities, and meeting space. In Lubumbashi, three projects are planned: a 97-room Radisson Hotel (2027), a 160-room Radisson Blu Apartments (2030), and a 105-room airport hotel (2028), supporting both business and extended-stay demand.

– Egypt
Radisson Resort Ain Sokhna Groove, set for 2029, will bring 469 rooms to Egypt’s Red Sea coast with beach access, multiple restaurants, and event facilities. In Greater Cairo, Radisson Serviced Apartments Sheikh Zayed City (2030) will offer 120 units in a fast-growing mixed-use hub near major landmarks and Sphinx International Airport.

– Morocco
Expansion includes the Radisson Blu Hotel & Conference Center Casablanca Bouskoura, a 119-room property with a dedicated conference facility near Palm Golf. In Rabat, a dual hotel and serviced apartment project in Technopolis will combine 140 rooms and 56 apartments. In Marrakech, a low-rise resort with 80 bungalows and Atlas Mountain views is scheduled for 2028.

– Nigeria
New projects include Radisson Hotel Aba (2031), a 120-room riverside property; Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Yenagoa (2027), a 196-room business-focused hotel; and Radisson Collection Hotel Lagos Atlantic (2029), a 107-room luxury property on Victoria Island.

– South Africa
Radisson Serviced Apartments Umhlanga (2029) will add 155 units in a major business and lifestyle hub, catering to extended-stay demand near key office parks and retail centers.

– Zimbabwe
Marking its entry into Zimbabwe, Radisson will open serviced apartments in Harare (2028), offering 147 units in the upscale Borrowdale district. The Park Inn by Radisson Victoria Falls Resort (2029) will feature 150 rooms near one of the world’s most iconic natural attractions, appealing to both leisure travelers and tour groups.