Hyatt Announces Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Zimbabwe with the opening of Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom. Scheduled to welcome guests in late 2027, the hotel will undergo a comprehensive renovation following the signing of a management agreement between a Hyatt affiliate and an affiliate of Albwardy Investments LLC.

Located in Victoria Falls, home to one of the world's most famous natural wonders, the property will become the second Hyatt-branded hotel in Zimbabwe and further strengthen the company's growing presence across Africa.

Historic landmark to be transformed

Originally opened in 1966 and redeveloped in 1999, the hotel will be completely redesigned in line with Grand Hyatt brand standards. The transformation aims to create a luxury destination that blends the property's rich heritage with contemporary hospitality, offering guests memorable experiences inspired by the culture and natural beauty of Victoria Falls.

Upon opening, World of Hyatt members will be able to earn and redeem loyalty benefits at the property.

Prime location beside a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The future Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom will be located in the heart of Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or "The Smoke That Thunders."

Guests will be just a five-minute walk from the Victoria Falls rainforest, while enjoying convenient access to safari experiences, guided excursions, restaurants and cultural attractions. Victoria Falls International Airport is approximately a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

"We are delighted to collaborate with Albwardy Investments to bring the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls," said Ludwig Bouldoukian, Regional Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt. "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 to growing our brand presence in the region and providing World of Hyatt members more travel choice in inspiring destinations."

Designed for leisure, events and business travel

Following its renovation, the hotel is expected to feature 245 guestrooms, approximately 1,800 square metres of meeting and event space, three restaurants, a spa, fitness centre and an expansive lobby lounge.

The combination of upscale accommodation, dining, wellness facilities and event space is intended to position the property as a leading destination for leisure travellers, conferences and business events alike.

Long-term investment in African hospitality

Albwardy Investments sees the redevelopment as an important milestone for both the company and Zimbabwe's tourism sector.

"We are proud to collaborate with Hyatt on plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls," said Ali Albwardy, Chairman of Albwardy Investments. "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."

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