Tourexpi
The
World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced that Millat Group has
become a member of its Executive Committee, marking the first time a South
African private equity firm has secured a place on the Council’s top governing
body. The committee brings together leaders from across the global Travel &
Tourism industry.
Established
in 2016, Millat Group has quickly emerged as a major force in African
hospitality. The company is credited with reintroducing the Hyatt brand to
South Africa and is now the largest owner of Hyatt-branded properties on the
continent, including Hyatt Regency Cape Town, Hyatt House Sandton, Hyatt House
Rosebank, and the recently opened Park Hyatt Johannesburg.
Julia
Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, welcomed the announcement: “We are delighted
to have Millat Group join our Executive Committee. Their leadership in bringing
world-class hospitality brands to South Africa, along with innovative ventures
in food services and retail, demonstrates their ability to connect investment
with meaningful impact. Africa is one of the most dynamic growth regions for
Travel & Tourism, and Millat’s participation will bring vital perspectives
as we expand opportunities, promote sustainability, and elevate the continent’s
role within the global tourism economy.”
At
the helm of Millat Group is Founder and CEO Hamza Farooqui, whose vision has
consistently positioned the company at the forefront of African tourism
investment. “It is a privilege for Millat to join the WTTC Executive
Committee,” Farooqui said. “This is not only a milestone for our Group, but
also for South Africa. We see this as a platform to advocate for greater
institutional capital investment into African tourism and hospitality, while
demonstrating the sector’s ability to drive both economic growth and
sustainable impact.”
As
part of the Executive Committee, Millat Group will contribute to setting WTTC’s
global agenda, supporting initiatives around sustainability, investment,
regional growth, and innovation. Its membership also reinforces Africa’s voice
in the international Travel & Tourism community.
Image
Credit: © WTTC
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