Marriott Expands Footprint in Africa with New Hotels in Kinshasa, DRC

Published on December 4, 2025

Marriott International has officially entered the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) with the opening of two landmark properties in Kinshasa, the country’s thriving capital. The newly opened Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa and Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa will accommodate both business and leisure visitors to one of Africa’s most dynamic cities. These hotels are expected to improve the local hospitality landscape by providing much-needed accommodations for tourists, business professionals, and government officials.

The opening of these hotels marks a significant milestone in Marriott’s strategy to expand its presence on the African continent. Kinshasa, located on the Congo River, is a strategically important city, both politically and economically. Kinshasa, with a population of over 17 million, is not only the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s political and cultural capital but also a thriving hub for trade, art, and international diplomacy.

A Strategic Location in Kinshasa

The city’s rich cultural tapestry, paired with its role as a major player in regional commerce, makes it an ideal location for Marriott’s expansion into Central Africa. The DRC is home to vast natural resources and is considered one of the most resource-rich nations in the world. Kinshasa itself offers visitors a vibrant mix of history, arts, and modern business infrastructure. The city’s music scene is internationally renowned, while its markets and restaurants provide a taste of Congolese life, making it an exciting destination for both work and leisure.

Kinshasa is also strategically positioned for easy access to the natural wonders of Central Africa, such as the famed Virunga National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas. This blend of urban energy and proximity to nature is expected to draw a diverse range of tourists from across the globe. As more international businesses establish themselves in the city, the need for high-quality hotel accommodations has never been more pronounced, and Marriott’s entry into the market is a timely response to this demand.

Marriott’s Brand Offerings in Kinshasa

The two new Marriott properties in Kinshasa cater to a wide variety of guest needs, offering options for both business travelers and tourists. Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa, located in an upscale neighbourhood, features 88 contemporary rooms that blend modern amenities with local touches. Many of these rooms offer stunning views of the Congo River, providing guests with a scenic backdrop to their stay. The hotel’s location near key government offices, corporate headquarters, and shopping centres makes it an ideal choice for professionals visiting Kinshasa on business. It also offers a host of leisure facilities, including an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and an all-day restaurant called Marché 15.

For those seeking more luxurious accommodations, the Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa offers 134 stylish rooms in the city’s central business district. The hotel is designed to meet the needs of both corporate clients and leisure visitors, with its modern facilities, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city, a 24-hour fitness centre, and the Lufira Restaurant. The hotel’s meeting and event spaces, which cover approximately 230 square metres, are equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, making it a perfect venue for corporate events, conferences, and social gatherings.

Collaboration and Economic Impact

The opening of the two hotels is not only a boost to Marriott’s regional portfolio but also to the local economy. The hotels are operated by SARV Management LLC, a third-party management company, and have created numerous job opportunities for local residents. In addition to employment, the properties are expected to contribute significantly to skills development in the hospitality sector. Marriott’s entry into Kinshasa aligns with the DRC government’s focus on enhancing the country’s infrastructure and fostering growth in the tourism and hospitality industries.

Karim Minsariya, the director of SAMAY Hospitality SARL, the ownership company behind the hotels, emphasized the importance of this collaboration in boosting Kinshasa’s appeal as both a business and leisure destination. He pointed out that the opening of these hotels would not only cater to the rising demand for quality accommodations but also support the local economy through increased tourism and employment.

Enhancing Connectivity and Convenience for Travelers

Both the Protea Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton are designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience for guests. The hotels are strategically located in key areas of the city, making them easily accessible for both business travelers and tourists. Protea Hotel by Marriott is situated near major business districts, government offices, and shopping centres, while Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa enjoys a prime location in the city’s bustling business hub.

With the DRC experiencing rapid economic growth and an increasing number of international visitors, the demand for reliable, high-quality hotel accommodations in Kinshasa is expected to rise. Marriott’s decision to introduce its globally recognized brands to this market not only enhances the city’s hospitality offerings but also strengthens its position as a key destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Kinshasa’s Growing Potential as a Business Hub

Kinshasa has long been an important economic centre in Central Africa, and with the opening of these hotels, it is poised to become an even more attractive destination for international businesses and investors. The city is rapidly becoming a focal point for regional trade, with growing infrastructure and a thriving commercial sector. The presence of multinational corporations and international organizations further highlights the city’s significance on the global stage.

The hospitality sector, which is crucial to the city’s economic development, will benefit immensely from the addition of these international hotel brands. Marriott’s entry into Kinshasa aligns with the DRC’s broader efforts to position itself as a regional leader in business and tourism, with the city serving as a gateway to the country’s vast natural and economic resources.

Conclusion

The opening of Protea Hotel by Marriott Kinshasa and Four Points by Sheraton Kinshasa ushers in a new era for Marriott International and the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s hospitality industry. Kinshasa, with its strategic location, vibrant culture, and expanding business and tourism sectors, is poised to become a popular international travel destination. Marriott’s commitment to expanding its presence in Africa, combined with strong local partnerships, promises to boost the city’s global profile, making it a desirable destination for both leisure and business travellers.