Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Zimbabwe with the opening of Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom, which is expected to welcome guests in late 2027 following the signing of a management agreement between a Hyatt affiliate and an affiliate of Albwardy Investments LLC. The upcoming luxury hotel will become Hyatt’s second branded property in Zimbabwe and is expected to strengthen the country’s position as one of Africa’s leading leisure tourism destinations.
Historic Landmark to Be Transformed into Luxury Destination
Originally constructed in 1966 and redeveloped in 1999, the property will undergo a comprehensive renovation and complete design transformation to align with Grand Hyatt’s luxury standards. The redevelopment aims to preserve the hotel’s historical significance while introducing modern luxury, world-class hospitality, and contemporary amenities that reflect the Grand Hyatt brand’s signature guest experience. Upon opening, the hotel will also participate in the World of Hyatt loyalty programme, allowing members to earn and redeem rewards during their stay.
Prime Location Near Victoria Falls
The future Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom will be located in the heart of Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most celebrated natural attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls attracts millions of visitors annually and remains one of Africa’s premier tourism destinations.
The hotel will be situated just a five-minute walk from the Victoria Falls rainforest, providing guests with convenient access to the waterfall, nearby safari destinations, guided excursions, restaurants, cultural attractions, and other tourism experiences. Its strategic location also places it approximately 20 minutes from Victoria Falls International Airport, making it easily accessible for both international leisure travelers and business visitors.
Luxury Accommodation and World-Class Facilities
Once completed, the hotel is expected to feature 245 luxury guestrooms designed to provide premium comfort and modern elegance. The property will also include approximately 1,800 square metres (19,375 square feet) of meeting and event space, positioning it as an attractive venue for conferences, corporate events, weddings, and international gatherings.
Additional facilities will include:
- Three signature restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences;
- A luxury spa and wellness centre;
- A fully equipped fitness centre;
- A spacious Grand Lobby Lounge;
- Premium leisure and recreational amenities.
Hyatt said the hotel will combine luxury accommodation with exceptional dining, wellness experiences, and personalized hospitality designed to meet the expectations of modern global travelers.
Strengthening Hyatt’s Presence in Africa
Commenting on the development, Ludwig Bouldoukian, Regional Vice President of Development for the Middle East and Africa at Hyatt, said the partnership represents another milestone in Hyatt’s continued expansion across Africa. He noted that the hotel’s exceptional location near the Victoria Falls rainforest makes it one of the most attractive hospitality projects in the region. According to Bouldoukian, the new Grand Hyatt property reflects Hyatt’s commitment to expanding its brand presence across Africa while offering World of Hyatt members greater access to inspiring travel destinations.
Albwardy Investments Sees Strong Potential
Ali Albwardy, Chairman of Albwardy Investments, said the company is proud to collaborate with Hyatt in bringing the prestigious Grand Hyatt brand to one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic hospitality landmarks. He noted that the property has served visitors for more than six decades and possesses tremendous heritage and long-term tourism potential. Albwardy said the redevelopment will create an elevated hospitality experience that celebrates the culture, history, and significance of Victoria Falls while reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to Africa’s growing hospitality industry.
Supporting Zimbabwe’s Tourism Growth
Industry experts believe the project will further strengthen Zimbabwe’s tourism sector by attracting high-end international travelers and increasing accommodation capacity at one of the continent’s most visited destinations. The investment is also expected to generate employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and support Zimbabwe’s broader tourism development strategy. As the hotel nearest to the entrance of Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side, the property is expected to become a preferred choice for leisure tourists, safari travelers, business delegates, and event organizers.
Hyatt Continues Global Expansion
Headquartered in Chicago, Hyatt Hotels Corporation is one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, operating a portfolio of more than 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties across 83 countries as of March 31, 2026. The company manages a wide range of globally recognized brands across luxury, lifestyle, resort, and business travel segments, including Grand Hyatt, Park Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Andaz, Alila, Thompson Hotels, Hyatt Centric, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, and several all-inclusive resort brands. The planned opening of Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom in 2027 marks another important milestone in Hyatt’s international growth strategy while enhancing Victoria Falls’ reputation as one of Africa’s premier luxury tourism destinations.
