Rapid Hotel Expansion Redefines African Tourism with New Premium and Luxury Offerings
Tunisia, Egypt, Gambia, and Tanzania are leading a major, transformative wave of hotel development that is accelerating Africa’s tourism future. These countries are at the forefront of the continent’s rapid hospitality expansion, characterized by modern resort openings, revitalized tourism hubs, and elevated guest experiences designed to meet surging global demand.
The confidence in Africa’s tourism rebound is strengthened by major global players like TUI Group, which is deepening its commitment with the launch of several new properties across key regions:
- North Africa (Egypt & Tunisia): TUI integrated four new resorts into its North African portfolio in November, signaling a strong belief in the region’s continued tourism rebound.
- Tunisia: A striking desert retreat, The Mora Sahara Tozeur, offers a refined desert experience with 93 luxury rooms and villas in an authentic oasis setting.
- Egypt: The Red Sea appeal is strengthened with a revitalized 521-room resort in Sharm el Sheikh and two new premium beachfront properties in Makadi Bay, focusing on modern rooms, water parks, and diving access.
- West Africa (Gambia): The opening of the first TUI Blue property, an adults-only retreat named TUI Blue Tamala, in Serrekunda introduces a new wave of coastal sophistication, featuring contemporary rooms and eco-minded solar technology.
- East Africa (Tanzania/Zanzibar): Zanzibar’s ascent continues with two upcoming luxury openings by early 2026: Jaz Amaluna (an elegant adults-only escape) and Riu Palace Swahili (a large-scale, all-inclusive, adults-only beachfront retreat with over 500 rooms).
These openings will grow TUI Hotels and Resorts’ African footprint to 106 hotels across nine countries by early 2026. This massive expansion reflects Africa’s rising status as one of the world’s most dynamic travel destinations, attracting global travelers seeking nature, culture, and authenticity.
