Global hospitality giant Hilton has announced plans to nearly triple its presence across Africa, with more than 100 new properties set to open in the coming years. The announcement, made during the Future Hospitality Summit Africa 2025, will see Hilton grow its footprint to over 160 hotels across the continent, bolstering regional tourism infrastructure and generating an estimated 18,000 new jobs.
Hilton currently operates 63 hotels in Africa and is now entering or re-entering key markets including Angola, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Madagascar and Ethiopia. The group’s development pipeline reflects a deliberate focus on business travel hubs, mixed-use developments, and high-potential tourism destinations, reinforcing Hilton’s long-standing presence on the continent.
Carlos Khneisser, Hilton’s Vice President of Development for the Middle East & Africa, said the company’s strategy is closely aligned with Africa’s tourism growth potential. “Africa offers a wealth of opportunity, from vibrant urban centres to spectacular landscapes and cultural heritage. We are working with a range of partners to bring trusted hospitality brands to new markets and deliver long-term value for local communities.”
Recent signings include multiple firsts for Hilton in Angola, where three properties will be introduced under the Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Garden Inn, and DoubleTree by Hilton brands. These include Hilton Luanda Hotel Godinho, Hilton Garden Inn Luanda Airport, and DoubleTree by Hilton Cabinda Futila Residences, which together bring over 700 keys to this emerging market.
In Benin, the 233-room Hilton Cotonou is set to open in 2028, adjacent to government offices and embassies, supporting the country’s push to become a business tourism hub in West Africa.
Hilton is also strengthening its presence in Madagascar with the signing of two properties in Antananarivo, as well as in Nigeria, where three new hotels will open in Abuja, Lagos, and Kano. Among them is The Wave Hotel Abuja Jabi, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, designed to deliver bespoke, locally inspired experiences.
Hilton’s entry into Ghana is set for later this year with the opening of Hilton Accra Cantonments, followed by Hampton by Hilton Accra Airport in 2026. In Ethiopia, the company has confirmed two DoubleTree openings in Adama and Dire Dawa—both firsts for these cities.
In North Africa, Hilton is targeting growth in Morocco and Egypt, with plans to more than double its portfolio in each country. Notable signings include DoubleTree by Hilton Fes Golf, a 109-room property near the city’s industrial area and a forthcoming convention centre.
Meanwhile, Hilton’s re-entry into Tanzania includes the signing of Canopy by Hilton Zanzibar The Burj, part of the upcoming Fumba Town mixed-use development, with 162 rooms scheduled to open in 2027.
Recent Openings
Hilton’s latest South African opening, Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof, introduces its lifestyle brand to the region, in partnership with Growthpoint Properties. The hotel reflects local culture through art and design, complemented by Ongetem restaurant, curated by renowned chef Bertus Basson.
In Ethiopia, DoubleTree by Hilton Addis Ababa Airport recently opened near Bole International Airport, offering convenience for international business and conference travellers.
Hilton also launched Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston in Johannesburg last year—the brand’s debut in Africa—signalling Hilton’s intent to compete in the upper-midscale segment across the continent: local development partnerships, lease agreements, and long-term investments in workforce development support Hilton’s African expansion. The company is actively recruiting for 600 positions across the continent and expects to support thousands more as projects come online.
For developers, investors, and hospitality stakeholders, Hilton’s accelerated growth in Africa is a clear signal of rising confidence in the region’s long-term tourism and business travel potential.