Emaar Properties Eyes Zimbabwe for Luxury Hotel Expansion
Dubai-based Emaar Properties is planning a major luxury hospitality investment in Zimbabwe following high-level talks between Mohamed Alabbar and President Mnan
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Dubai Property Giant Targets Zimbabwean Hospitality Market
Zimbabwe is poised for a significant upgrade in its premium lodging sector following announcements of potential investment from Emaar Properties. Mohamed Alabbar, the founder and chairman of the Dubai-based developer, recently met with President Mnangagwa to discuss the introduction of world-class luxury hotels into the country.
An executive delegation from Emaar is scheduled to visit Zimbabwe later this September. This visit is designed to conduct site inspections and finalize the scale and location of the proposed developments.
While specific room counts and opening dates remain undisclosed, the Zimbabwean government expects the project to generate thousands of jobs and modernize the nation's hospitality offerings.
Strategic Alignment with Rising Tourism Demand
The interest from Emaar comes as Zimbabwe experiences a measurable uptick in international travel. Data from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority indicates a steady climb in visitor numbers over the last several years.
International arrivals reached approximately 1 million in 2022, rising to 1.6 million in 2024. This represents a 60% increase during the first National Development Strategy period.
By 2025, arrivals climbed further to 1,777,569, marking a 10% annual growth rate. This trend suggests a strengthening level of destination confidence and a growing demand for high-end accommodation that exceeds traditional safari lodges.
Economic Impact and Sector Growth
The hospitality sector is currently one of the most aggressive growth drivers in the Zimbabwean economy. According to ZIMSTAT, accommodation and food services expanded by 12.8% in 2025.
The entry of a global entity like Emaarâwhich operates in over 18 countriesâcould shift Zimbabwe's tourism profile. By introducing integrated ecosystems of wellness, dining, and conferencing, the country can better compete with established African tourism hubs.
Key areas of potential impact include:
- Harare: Potential for luxury business and conference hubs.
- Victoria Falls: Opportunities to capture high-spending leisure travelers.
- Regional Corridors: Development that encourages longer, multi-destination itineraries.
Infrastructure and Environmental Integration
The 2024â2034 ZambeziâVictoria Falls National Parks management plan highlights the need for upgraded tourism products. However, the government emphasizes that new luxury developments must be coordinated to protect natural landscapes.
For investors, the goal is to convert Zimbabwe's natural assetsâsuch as Hwange National Park, Mana Pools, and the Matobo landscapeâinto higher-value stays through improved connectivity and premium services.
Zimbabwe Tourism Performance Indicators
| Tourism Indicator | Latest Available Figure | Strategic Significance |
|---|---|---|
| International arrivals, 2025 | 1,777,569 | Confirms expanding inbound demand |
| Annual growth in 2025 | 10% | Signals improving destination momentum |
| International arrivals, 2024 | ~1.6 million | Establishes a strong recent baseline |
| International arrivals, 2022 | ~1 million | Marks post-pandemic recovery trajectory |
| Accommodation & food services growth, 2025 | 12.8% | Highlights robust hospitality sector activity |
| Africa international arrivals, 2025 | 80 million | Contextualizes Zimbabwe within the continental market |
Key Takeaways
- High-Profile Investment: Emaar Properties, known for the Burj Khalifa, is evaluating sites for luxury hotels in Zimbabwe.
- Rapid Growth: International arrivals grew by 60% between 2022 and 2024, reaching nearly 1.8 million by 2025.
- Economic Diversification: The government is leveraging tourism infrastructure to diversify the economy and create thousands of jobs.
- Strategic Focus: Future developments are expected to target business hubs in the capital and leisure hotspots like Victoria Falls.
FAQ
Who is Emaar Properties? Emaar is a global real estate and hospitality giant based in Dubai, most famous for developing the Burj Khalifa and a vast portfolio of retail and leisure assets across 18+ countries.
When will the hotels open? Specific opening dates and locations have not yet been announced. An executive team is visiting Zimbabwe in September 2026 to finalize these details.
How has Zimbabwe's tourism performed recently? The country has seen significant growth, with international arrivals increasing from 1 million in 2022 to 1,777,569 in 2025.
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