Africa Witnesses Hotel Boom in 2025 with Hilton and Marriott Leading the Charge, Driving Thirteen Percent Growth and Over One Hundred Thousand Rooms in Development

Written By: Dixita Baruah

Dixita Baruah

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April 20, 2025 22:46 GMT+5:30

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Africa’s hospitality industry is experiencing a remarkable surge in 2025, with major international hotel chains like Hilton and Marriott leading the way. The latest developments reveal an impressive thirteen percent year-on-year growth, with over 100,000 rooms in the pipeline across the continent. This boom highlights Africa’s growing appeal as a prime destination for global hotel investments, driven by expanding urban centers, increasing tourism, and a rising demand for international-standard accommodations. As international brands continue to expand, Africa’s hotel sector is poised for significant transformation, setting the stage for an exciting future in hospitality.

The hospitality industry in Africa is witnessing a phenomenal growth trajectory in 2025, with global hotel brands significantly ramping up their operations across the continent. According to the latest Hotel Chain Development Pipelines in Africa 2025 report by the W Hospitality Group, the number of hotel projects underway has reached an all-time high of 577 properties, totaling a remarkable 104,444 rooms. This represents a 13.3% increase year-over-year, positioning Africa as a key region in the global hospitality sector.

The report, which compiles data from 50 hotel chains—both regional and international—provides valuable insights into the future of Africa’s hospitality landscape. These figures are based on signed deals and planned developments, offering a glimpse into the dynamic growth of the industry rather than the current operating hotels.

Hilton Takes the Lead in Africa’s Hospitality Expansion

Hilton has emerged as the leader in the African hotel pipeline, with a robust 32 hotels planned for 2025. This expansion will add 7,575 rooms to Hilton’s African portfolio, marking an 11.9% increase compared to the previous year. Each property will average 237 rooms, highlighting the significant scale of Hilton’s presence across the continent.

Protea Hotels and Four Points by Sheraton on the Rise

In second place, Protea Hotels has 24 hotels in development, set to contribute 3,217 rooms to the African market. However, Protea has seen a slight dip in expansion activity, with a 0.9% decrease from the previous year. Following closely in third place, Four Points by Sheraton is significantly increasing its footprint, with 21 new properties in the pipeline and 3,663 rooms—marking a 14.2% increase over the previous year.

DoubleTree by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Boost Their Growth

Tied for fourth position are DoubleTree by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn, both of which are accelerating their development plans with 20 hotels each. DoubleTree’s expansion will add 3,890 rooms, an impressive 32.1% growth from 2024. Hilton Garden Inn, on the other hand, is seeing a spectacular expansion rate of 120.6%, with 3,117 rooms to be added in its new developments.

Marriott and Radisson Strengthen Their Presence Across Africa

In sixth place, Marriott Hotels and Resorts has 19 properties planned for 2025, set to contribute 5,382 rooms to the African market. This represents a modest 4.1% growth from the previous year. Radisson follows closely in seventh place, with 13 hotels under development and 2,212 rooms—an 8% increase in its portfolio compared to 2024.

Ritz-Carlton and Autograph Collection Mark Their Territory

Ritz-Carlton and Autograph Collection share the eighth and ninth spots, each with 10 new hotels in development. Ritz-Carlton will introduce 1,039 rooms, while Autograph Collection is set to deliver 1,880 rooms. While the year-over-year changes for these two brands are not specified in the report, their steady growth is evident.

Courtyard by Marriott Rounds Off the Top Ten

Courtyard by Marriott completes the top ten, with nine hotels set to add 2,076 rooms to the African hospitality market. This represents a significant 19.3% growth from 2024, reinforcing Marriott’s growing footprint on the continent.

Africa’s Flourishing Hospitality Sector Reflects Broader Economic Trends

The rapid expansion of the hotel industry in Africa highlights the continent’s increasing importance as a hub for global hotel investment. The growing demand for international-standard accommodations, coupled with rising urbanization, improving infrastructure, and a surge in intra-African travel, makes Africa a highly attractive market for hospitality development. With a steady influx of international brands and a growing middle class, Africa’s hospitality industry is set for sustained expansion and transformation in the coming years.