Marriott to Add 50 New Hotels in Africa by 2027: Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, DRC, Madagascar & Mauritania

The African hospitality industry is on the cusp of a major transformation as Marriott International announces its ambitious plan to add 50 new properties by 2027. The expansion will cover key destinations including Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Madagascar, and Mauritania. This bold move reflects both the rising importance of Africa in the global travel market and the growing demand for quality accommodation across the continent.

For travelers, investors, and local communities, this development signals a new era of opportunities. Marriott’s entry into these diverse destinations is not just about hotels; it’s about creating experiences, jobs, and connectivity that will shape the future of African tourism and business travel.

Why Africa, and Why Now?

Africa has long been considered one of the last frontiers in global hospitality growth. With its rich cultural heritage, unmatched biodiversity, and rapidly growing economies, the continent is attracting increasing attention from both leisure and business travelers. According to the UN World Tourism Organization, Africa’s tourism sector has been experiencing steady growth of around 5% annually, outpacing many regions.

Marriott’s decision to expand in these particular countries highlights a strategic mix of opportunities:

• Cape Verde: A rising island destination with sun-soaked beaches and booming leisure tourism.
• Ivory Coast: West Africa’s economic hub, driving demand for business and conference facilities.
• DRC: Rich in natural resources and on the verge of attracting more business travelers.
• Madagascar: Known for unique wildlife and eco-tourism potential.
• Mauritania: A gateway to the Sahara and an emerging destination for adventure and cultural tourism.

By 2027, Marriott aims not just to build hotels but to cement its presence in high-potential markets that are underserved by global hospitality brands.

Spotlight on the Five Key Destinations

Cape Verde: Atlantic Jewel

Cape Verde is quickly becoming a favorite among European travelers seeking a mix of African culture and island luxury. The archipelago is famed for its volcanic landscapes, vibrant music scene, and year-round sunshine. Marriott’s entry will likely elevate Cape Verde’s profile as a luxury and mid-scale travel hub, offering resorts and business hotels that appeal to both tourists and investors.

Ivory Coast: Business and Beyond

As one of West Africa’s fastest-growing economies, Ivory Coast is positioning itself as a regional business capital. Abidjan, often dubbed “the Paris of West Africa,” has a growing demand for high-quality accommodation for conferences, trade, and international corporations. Marriott’s planned properties will cater not only to business travelers but also to leisure visitors exploring the country’s beaches and cultural attractions.

Democratic Republic of Congo: Untapped Potential

The DRC remains one of Africa’s most underexplored destinations for tourism, yet its potential is immense. From the mighty Congo River to Virunga National Park’s gorillas, the country has unparalleled natural treasures. Marriott’s expansion signals confidence in the DRC’s future stability and economic growth. For business travelers, new hotels will provide the infrastructure necessary for international engagement.

Madagascar: Eco-Tourism Paradise

Madagascar is already world-renowned for its unique biodiversity—home to lemurs, baobabs, and ecosystems found nowhere else on earth. Eco-tourism is a growing trend, and Marriott is likely to balance luxury with sustainability in its offerings. Resorts and lodges could serve as bases for travelers keen to explore rainforests, coral reefs, and cultural heritage sites.

Mauritania: Gateway to the Sahara

Often overlooked by mainstream tourism, Mauritania is slowly carving a niche in adventure and cultural tourism. From the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Chinguetti to the vast Sahara dunes, it offers raw and authentic travel experiences. Marriott’s expansion here suggests an effort to pioneer in frontier destinations, offering both modern comfort and accessibility.

Tourism and Economic Impact

The addition of 50 new Marriott properties across these countries is expected to bring significant benefits:

• Job Creation: Thousands of direct and indirect jobs in construction, hospitality, and tourism services.
• Infrastructure Development: New hotels often spur improvements in roads, airports, and utilities.
• Local Business Growth: Partnerships with local suppliers for food, art, and services.
• Global Exposure: International travelers loyal to Marriott will explore these destinations, boosting visibility.

For local economies, the hotels will generate tax revenue, encourage entrepreneurship, and strengthen Africa’s position as a serious player in global tourism.

Marriott’s Approach: Global Standards, Local Flavor

Marriott has a track record of blending international hospitality standards with local cultural experiences. In Africa, this often means incorporating traditional design, cuisine, and art into hotel experiences while ensuring modern comforts like fast Wi-Fi, business centers, and wellness facilities.

In places like Cape Verde or Madagascar, properties may lean toward resort-style offerings with spas, beach access, and eco-friendly features. In the Ivory Coast and DRC, the focus may be on business hotels with conference facilities, co-working spaces, and easy city access. In Mauritania, smaller boutique-style hotels may provide adventure travelers with both authenticity and comfort.

This dual approach ensures that Marriott caters to both business and leisure markets, while also contributing to cultural preservation and sustainability.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Marriott’s plans are ambitious, challenges remain:

• Political Stability: Some regions, particularly the DRC, face governance and security concerns.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Roads, airports, and utilities may not yet match global standards.
• Sustainability Concerns: Balancing development with environmental protection.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for Marriott to lead. By investing in green building practices, community partnerships, and training programs, Marriott can set benchmarks for responsible hospitality in Africa.

What This Means for Travelers

For international travelers, Marriott’s expansion means more options, better standards, and increased confidence in exploring destinations that may have previously felt out of reach. Business travelers will find reliable conference and accommodation facilities, while leisure travelers can enjoy curated experiences in some of Africa’s most beautiful and least-crowded destinations.

Loyalty program members, through Marriott Bonvoy, will also benefit, gaining access to unique African stays while earning and redeeming points. This could make Africa more attractive to repeat global travelers who value consistency and rewards.

Africa’s Hospitality Future

Marriott’s expansion is not an isolated event—it reflects a broader trend of global hotel brands increasing their footprint across Africa. Hilton, Radisson, and Accor are also making moves, but Marriott’s scale and timing set it apart. By targeting both established hubs and emerging destinations, Marriott is betting on Africa’s long-term growth story.

The next few years will be crucial. If executed well, Marriott’s 50 new properties will not only redefine hospitality in these five countries but also inspire confidence for further expansion across the continent.

Conclusion

Marriott’s plan to add 50 new properties across Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, the DRC, Madagascar, and Mauritania by 2027 is a transformative development for African tourism and hospitality. It represents more than just hotel openings; it is about bridging cultures, creating jobs, and positioning Africa as a key destination for both leisure and business travelers.

For travelers, this expansion opens doors to new experiences with the assurance of Marriott’s global quality. For Africa, it is a step toward becoming a more connected and competitive player in the global travel industry.

Tapmigo Tip: Keep an eye on Marriott’s announcements in your preferred African destination. Booking early once properties open could secure not just great deals but also the chance to be among the first to experience Africa’s next wave of hospitality innovation.