Millat Group joins the Executive Committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council

International

First South African private equity firm to take a seat on WTTC’s highest governing body.

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.