Radisson expands in South Africa with 155-room Umhlanga project

Radisson Hotel Group is stepping up its expansion in Africa, with South Africa at the center of its latest push.

The company plans a 155-room serviced apartment project in Umhlanga, a fast-growing coastal business district near Durban. 

The investment reflects renewed interest in Africa’s hospitality sector, as international hotel operators respond to a steady pickup in business travel and tourism.

South Africa remains a key entry point, supported by developed infrastructure, strong corporate demand and well-known travel routes. 

Across the industry, serviced apartments are gaining ground.

Travelers are increasingly looking for longer stays that offer both hotel services and the comfort of home, a shift that is reshaping how new properties are designed and marketed. 

For Radisson, the Umhlanga project fits into a wider plan to build scale while staying focused on locations with consistent demand.

The group now has more than 100 hotels operating or in development across Africa, with Radisson Blu leading its high-end segment and the core Radisson brand expanding through a mix of conversions and new builds.

Focus on South Africa’s key cities 

In the past year, the company signed over 15 hotels, adding about 2,500 rooms across markets including South Africa, Morocco and Nigeria.

Conversions remain a central part of that approach, helping the group open properties faster while keeping costs in check. 

Within South Africa, Radisson is concentrating on Cape Town and expanding in cities such as Durban and Pretoria.

It is also targeting established leisure destinations, including Kruger National Park and the Garden Route, where visitor numbers are picking up again.

Umhlanga project targets long-stay demand 

The planned Radisson Serviced Apartments Umhlanga, expected to open in 2029, will be located in Umhlanga Ridge, a busy commercial and lifestyle hub.

The development will include 155 units, from studios to larger apartments, aimed at business travelers and longer-stay guests. 

The site is within walking distance of Gateway Theatre of Shopping and close to major office parks, making it attractive for corporate stays while still appealing to leisure visitors.

Broader push into Morocco and Nigeria 

Beyond South Africa, Radisson is adding to its presence in Morocco and Nigeria, two markets it sees as important for future growth.

New projects in cities including Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Lagos, Aba and Yenagoa are designed to serve both business and resort demand. 

Ramsay Rankoussi, the group’s regional development chief, said growth has been driven by a clear focus on the right locations and partnerships with property owners. 

As travel demand continues to recover and investors return to the sector, Radisson’s latest projects point to steady confidence in Africa’s hospitality market.