Radisson expands past 100 Africa hotels, eyes strong 2030 growth

Radisson Hotel Group has passed a key mark in Africa, with more than 100 hotels in operation and development, as it steps up expansion across some of the continent’s busiest travel markets.

The move reflects rising demand for branded hotels, driven by business travel, urban growth, and a steady return of international visitors. 

The milestone comes at a time when global hotel operators are paying closer attention to Africa.

Better air links, population growth, and shifting travel patterns are helping to lift demand in cities and resort destinations alike.

For Radisson, the focus has been on building scale while keeping development costs in check. 

Over the past year, the group signed more than 15 hotels, adding about 2,500 rooms to its pipeline.

New projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zimbabwe show a mix of expansion in established markets and entry into countries where international hotel brands are still limited. 

Radisson Blu remains the group’s main brand on the continent, while Radisson has grown quickly through conversions—bringing existing hotels under its system.

That approach has helped speed up openings and widen its reach without long construction timelines. 

“We’ve crossed the 100-hotel mark by staying focused on the right markets and moving quickly with the right partners,” said Ramsay Rankoussi, regional chief development officer.

He said the next phase will deepen the group’s presence in Nigeria and Morocco, refine its footprint in South Africa, and add more resort properties in key leisure destinations.

Nigeria, Morocco and South Africa lead focus 

Nigeria remains one of Radisson’s strongest markets, with 13 hotels in operation and development.

Abuja accounts for a large share of upcoming projects, while other cities are drawing interest as business activity expands and infrastructure improves. 

In South Africa, the group is concentrating on Cape Town and key leisure routes such as Kruger National Park and the Garden Route.

The shift reflects growing demand from travelers who combine work trips with short holidays.

Morocco also continues to attract investment, with projects in Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakech supported by steady tourist arrivals and close ties to Europe. 

Beyond these markets, Radisson is preparing to enter Zanzibar and is studying opportunities in Namibia, Botswana and Zambia, where safari and nature-based travel are drawing more visitors.

Conversions help speed up growth 

Conversions have become a core part of Radisson’s expansion across Africa.

Over the past five years, more than 15 hotels—nearly 3,000 rooms—have joined its network through this route, allowing the group to open properties faster while working with local owners. 

The model is well suited to many African markets, where existing hotels can be upgraded to meet international standards.

It also reduces development risk and helps bring properties to market sooner. 

Recent signings reflect a mix of city hotels, serviced apartments and resorts.

New projects are planned in Lagos, Abuja, Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Harare and Victoria Falls, along with a large resort development in Egypt’s Ain Sokhna.

Expanding footprint across the continent 

Radisson now operates in more than 30 African countries, giving it one of the widest footprints among international hotel groups on the continent.

Its approach combines a stronger presence in core markets with selective entry into new locations. 

As investment in infrastructure continues and travel demand builds, the group is positioning itself to capture more of Africa’s growing hospitality market, where both business and leisure segments are expected to support long-term growth.