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Enacy Mapakame
THE introduction of the first Hyatt hotel in Zimbabwe, with the opening of the Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles, will put Zimbabwe on the global tourism and hospitality map, bolstering prospects of attracting more international travellers.
Boasting over 50 years, the Hyatt Regency brand is a global collection of hotels and resorts found in more than 200 locations in over 40 countries around the world, with a diverse portfolio, from expansive resorts to urban city centres.
Now, the brand has marked a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s hospitality landscape. It brings international and unique guest experience, combining elements of Zimbabwean hospitality with the Hyatt Regency brand’s signature excellence.
Originally established in 1915 as Meikles Hotel, the newly branded Hyatt Regency property has hosted renowned global personalities such as the late pop star Michael Jackson; United States politician Hillary Clinton; and the then-Prince of Wales, now King Charles III.
This is a feat that management at the five-star hotel expects to maintain, especially at a time the country is also looking at the tourism and hospitality industry as a low-hanging fruit, with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) expecting improvements in international travel.
UNWTO projects international tourist arrivals to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, with initial estimates pointing to a 2 percent growth above the 2019 figures, underpinned by increased air connectivity and continued recovery of Asian markets and destinations.
Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles general manager Mr Tinashe Munjoma said the facility would maintain the Meikles culture, but now with a fusion of the international Hyatt Regency brand, which will attract more visitors.
“We are honoured to continue the legacy of this esteemed property and bring the renowned Hyatt Regency guest experience to the Zimbabwean market.
“This grand opening marks a great milestone for the country’s hospitality industry and we look forward to welcoming even more global travellers seeking diverse cultural experiences in Harare by leveraging on the track record and expertise of a global hospitality brand,” he said during a briefing announcing the opening of the Hyatt hotel in Zimbabwe.
He added the hotel, now under a management contract with Hyatt Regency, is currently working with international staff from the hospitality chain to create a fusion of local and international cuisines and services such as wellness and health.
The plan is also to bring a seamless blend of modern and traditional aspects, featuring state-of-the-art facilities, world-class dining options and personalised service tailored to meet the needs of every guest.
From business travellers to adventure seekers and those looking for a serene getaway, the hotel will help guests immerse themselves in the unique and newly refurbished hotel.
Commenting on the opening, Hyatt Group president (Europe, Africa and the Middle East) Javier Aguila said: “We are thrilled to announce the first Hyatt-branded hotel in Zimbabwe, continuing the brand’s legacy in Africa and bringing the Hyatt Regency guest experience to the country.
“This debut underscores our dedication to growing our brand footprint in new destinations, contributing to the growth and development of the country’s tourism sector, while providing exceptional service and creating memorable moments for our World of Hyatt members and guests.”
In line with the thrust of bringing modern and luxury experiences to guests, the hotel is undergoing refurbishments that will take up US$30 million in total, with the first phase already complete.
The hotel, now carrying a global name and undergoing a state-of-the-art upgrade, is expected to record occupancy growth of between 10 percent and 15 percent, according to Hyatt Regency Harare The Meikles director of sales and marketing Mr Nyasha Mwandiambira.
The new developments will, however, come with a “slight increase in our pricing because of the upgrade”, he said.
In 2019, Dubai-based Albwardy Investments bought Zimbabwe’s Meikles Hotel for US$20 million and vowed to upgrade the facility to international standards.
Online Reporter