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Dubai Property Giant Targets Zimbabwean Hospitality Market
Emaar Properties, the global developer behind the Burj Khalifa, is exploring a significant entry into Zimbabwe’s premium hospitality sector. The move follows a high-level meeting between Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar and President Mnangagwa to discuss the development of world-class luxury hotels.
An executive delegation from Emaar is scheduled to visit Zimbabwe later in September. This visit will focus on site inspections and the finalization of project parameters, including specific locations and the overall scale of the investment.
While the Zimbabwean government has not yet released specific room counts or opening dates, the President indicated that the project is expected to generate thousands of jobs. The move signals a shift toward attracting high-net-worth travelers and corporate investors to the region.
Tourism Surge Drives Investment Appeal
The interest from Emaar coincides with a period of rapid growth in Zimbabwe's tourism sector. Data provided by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority indicates a steady climb in visitor numbers, suggesting a strong demand for high-end accommodation.
International arrivals grew from approximately 1 million in 2022 to 1.6 million in 2024. This 60% increase occurred during the first phase of the National Development Strategy, positioning tourism as a primary engine for economic diversification.
Recent figures show that this momentum has continued. In 2025, Zimbabwe recorded 1,777,569 international arrivals, marking a 10% increase over the previous year.
Economic Impact and Sector Growth
The hospitality sector is currently one of the fastest-growing segments of the Zimbabwean economy. ZIMSTAT reported that accommodation and food services expanded by 12.8% in 2025.
For a developer like Emaar, which operates in over 18 countries, these metrics provide the necessary baseline for luxury investment. The shift from basic safari lodges to sophisticated, full-service luxury hotels allows the country to compete more effectively with other established African tourism hubs.
Strategic placement of these hotels could diversify the tourism offering:
- Harare: Potential for increased business and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.
- Victoria Falls: Ability to capture high-spending leisure travelers and extend the average length of stay.
- Tourism Corridors: Integration of city breaks with safari experiences in Hwange National Park and Mana Pools.
Strategic Focus on Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls remains the most likely focal point for premium development due to its global recognition. The 2024–2034 Zambezi–Victoria Falls National Parks management plan specifically prioritizes the upgrade of tourism products.
The goal is to transition from short-term visits to high-value, longer stays. By integrating luxury accommodation with the existing natural attractions of the Matobo landscape and surrounding parks, Zimbabwe aims to create a comprehensive luxury ecosystem.
Zimbabwe Tourism Performance Metrics
| Tourism Indicator | Latest Available Figure | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| International arrivals (2025) | 1,777,569 | Expanding inbound demand |
| Annual growth (2025) | 10% | Improving destination momentum |
| International arrivals (2024) | ~1.6 million | Strong recent baseline |
| International arrivals (2022) | ~1 million | Post-pandemic recovery trend |
| Accommodation & food services growth (2025) | 12.8% | High hospitality sector activity |
| Africa international arrivals (2025) | 80 million | Broad continental market growth |
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: Emaar Properties is evaluating sites for luxury hotels in Zimbabwe following talks between Mohamed Alabbar and President Mnangagwa.
- Rapid Growth: International arrivals rose 60% between 2022 and 2024, reaching nearly 1.78 million by 2025.
- Economic Driver: The accommodation and food services sector grew by 12.8% in 2025, signaling a healthy environment for hospitality investors.
- Strategic Goal: The investment aims to shift Zimbabwe from a "stop-over" destination to a high-value luxury hub, specifically targeting Victoria Falls and Harare.
FAQ
Who is Emaar Properties? Emaar is a Dubai-based global real estate leader known for developing the Burj Khalifa and a vast portfolio of hospitality and leisure assets across more than 18 countries.
When will the hotels be built? Specific timelines and locations have not been announced. An executive team is visiting Zimbabwe in September 2026 to conduct site inspections and finalize plans.
How has Zimbabwe's tourism performed recently? The country has seen a significant upward trend, with international arrivals growing from 1 million in 2022 to over 1.77 million in 2025.
