Hilton plans to nearly triple African footprint with over 160 hotels, to create 18,000 jobs

AFRICA – Hilton has unveiled ambitious plans to substantially expand its presence across Africa, aiming to operate more than 160 hotels in the coming years, nearly tripling its current footprint on the continent.

This growth will be driven by the opening of over 100 new hotels spanning diverse markets such as Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Angola, and Madagascar.

Alongside supporting Africa’s rapidly developing hospitality sector, Hilton’s expansion is expected to generate approximately 18,000 new jobs, significantly benefiting local communities.

Carlos Khneisser, Hilton’s Chief Development Officer for the Middle East and Africa, emphasized the company’s enthusiasm for the continent’s vast potential.

“Our strategy focuses on partnering with owners to grow our footprint, deliver exceptional guest experiences, and create meaningful employment for local people,” he said.

Hilton’s legacy in Africa spans over 65 years, and this latest announcement reinforces its long-term commitment to the region’s hospitality growth.

Recent openings such as Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston, and DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Ababa Airport showcase Hilton’s diverse brand portfolio tailored to meet various traveler needs.

The company is also set to debut in Ghana later this year with Hilton Accra Cantonments, marking a significant milestone.

In Ethiopia, Hilton is expanding with two upcoming DoubleTree by Hilton hotels in Adama and Dire Dawa, cities that will host their first internationally branded properties when these open in 2028.

Tanzania will see Hilton’s re-entry with Canopy by Hilton Zanzibar The Burj, a lifestyle hotel offering 162 rooms and curated local experiences, scheduled for 2027.

North Africa remains a focus area, with plans to triple Hilton’s portfolio in Egypt to over 40 hotels and more than double its presence in Morocco, including new luxury offerings and a recently signed DoubleTree by Hilton in the historic city of Fes.

Hilton’s growth strategy also prioritizes job creation and skills development, with the company currently recruiting for 600 hospitality positions across Africa.

The planned expansion is expected to create thousands more roles, supporting economic development and empowering local talent.

This surge in hotel development aligns with Africa’s booming tourism and business travel sectors, driven by infrastructure improvements, increasing connectivity, and growing demand for international-standard accommodations.

Hilton’s broad brand portfolio, from luxury resorts to mid-market and lifestyle hotels, positions it to serve a wide range of guests and markets.

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