Marriott International is expanding its all-inclusive resort business with new properties planned for Tanzania and Jamaica, as global hotel groups compete for a larger share of the growing luxury leisure travel market.

The company has signed agreements with Spanish hospitality operator Catalonia Hotels & Resorts to develop two resorts under Marriott brands. The projects include a Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The deals mark another step in Marriott’s effort to grow its all-inclusive portfolio while responding to increasing demand for beachfront resorts, premium experiences and international travel destinations.

The partnership also highlights the growing appeal of Zanzibar as a tourism investment destination, with international hotel brands looking to expand their presence in Africa’s coastal markets.

Marriott targets Zanzibar and Montego Bay for resort growth

The Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive Resort in Montego Bay is expected to open in 2028 following the conversion of the former Catalonia Montego Bay property. Located near Sangster International Airport, the beachfront resort will feature 522 rooms, 13 dining outlets, three swimming pools and meeting facilities covering about 12,900 square feet.

The property will also include a spa, fitness centre, tennis courts and pickleball facilities, adding to Jamaica’s growing supply of large-scale luxury resorts aimed at international visitors.

In Zanzibar, the new Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort is scheduled to open in 2027 as a new-build development with 271 guest rooms. The resort will feature several swimming pools, a spa, theatre, oceanfront jetty, seawater pool and bar, alongside multiple specialty restaurants.

Marriott strengthens partnership with Catalonia Hotels

Laurent de Kousemaeker, Marriott International’s chief development officer for the Caribbean and Latin America, said the agreements reflect the company’s focus on expanding its all-inclusive offering through partnerships with experienced hospitality operators.

“These agreements represent a significant milestone in our all-inclusive strategy and demonstrate the strength of our relationships with experienced owners seeking to maximise value through Marriott’s globally recognised brands,” he said.

Catalonia Hotels & Resorts Chief Commercial and Operations Officer Manuel Valenzuela said the partnership with Marriott reflects confidence in the company’s operating model and supports its expansion into important tourism markets.

“We are pleased to strengthen our relationship with Marriott International through these two significant projects,” Valenzuela said, adding that the agreements would support the company’s growth plans.

Marriott continues global hospitality expansion

Marriott International is one of the world’s largest hotel companies, with thousands of properties across more than 30 brands in nearly 150 countries and territories. The company operates brands including Marriott Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton and Autograph Collection, serving business and leisure travellers worldwide.

The latest agreements come as Marriott continues to expand its presence in key tourism markets. Earlier this month, the company reached a deal with Manarat Al Dheyafah Company for Real Estate to develop The Westin Abha hotel in Saudi Arabia’s Asir region.

The new projects in Tanzania and Jamaica underline Marriott’s focus on destinations where international travellers are seeking luxury resort experiences, while giving local tourism sectors access to global hospitality networks.