Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom to open late 2027

THE Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom, formerly The Kingdom Hotel is scheduled to reopen its doors in late 2027, just in time for the Cricket World Cup which Zimbabwe is co-hosting.

The announcement comes as a significant boost to the country’s tourism sector, with the 245-room luxury hotel set to become the second Hyatt-branded property in Zimbabwe.

Hyatt revealed the development in a statement on Wednesday, confirming that a management agreement had been signed between a Hyatt affiliate and an affiliate of Albwardy Investments LLC.

The property is undergoing extensive refurbishment works of the existing building that has stood as one of Victoria Falls’ most established hospitality landmarks for more than 60 years.

A visit by this reporter to the site confirmed that refurbishment works are already in full swing, with renovations having reduced the existing structure to a shell as the building undergoes a complete transformation ahead of its grand reopening.

Originally built in 1966 and redeveloped in 1999, the property will be meticulously redesigned to meet the exacting standards of the Grand Hyatt brand.

Commenting on the development, Mr Ludwig Bouldoukian, Regional Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa at Hyatt, said:

“We are delighted to collaborate with Albwardy Investments to bring the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls. With its landmark location just moments from the Victoria Falls rainforest, this property represents a truly exceptional setting. This signing marks a significant milestone in Hyatt’s continued expansion across Africa, reinforcing our commitment on growing our brand presence in the region and providing World of Hyatt members more travel choice in inspiring destinations.”

Mr Ali Albwardy, Chairman of Albwardy Investments, expressed pride in the collaboration, saying:

“We are proud to collaborate with Hyatt on plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls. As one of the destination’s most established hospitality landmarks for more than 60 years, the property holds significant heritage and potential within Zimbabwe. Through its transformation under the Grand Hyatt brand, and with plans to reopen in late 2027, we aim to create an elevated hospitality experience that celebrates the culture, energy and significance of Victoria Falls, further reinforcing our commitment to Africa’s hospitality sector.”

The company said the property will undergo an extensive renovation and design transformation in line with the Grand Hyatt brand, creating a captivating destination within a destination that celebrates both the iconic and intimate moments through thoughtful details and grand experiences.

The property is expected to feature 245 thoughtfully appointed guest rooms and an extensive range of facilities, including 1,800 square metres of meeting and event space, three dining venues, a spa and fitness centre, and a grand lobby lounge.

The hotel will offer a dynamic mix of culinary, leisure and wellness experiences along with welcoming service that creates an elevated experience for all guests.