Farai Mabeza
The iconic Kingdom Hotel in Victoria Falls is set to reopen in late 2027 as Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom following an extensive refurbishment that will transform the historic tourism landmark into a luxury international hospitality destination.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the signing of a management agreement between a Hyatt affiliate and an affiliate of Albwardy Investments LLC to bring the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls, making the property the second Hyatt-branded hotel in Zimbabwe.
Originally built in 1966 and redeveloped in 1999, The Kingdom Hotel has been one of Victoria Falls’ most recognisable hospitality landmarks for more than 60 years.
The planned redevelopment will see the property undergo a comprehensive renovation and design transformation in line with the Grand Hyatt brand, while creating a hospitality experience that celebrates the heritage, culture and natural beauty of the destination.
Located in the heart of Victoria Falls, the refurbished hotel will offer visitors a premium base from which to experience one of the world’s most celebrated natural wonders. The property is situated just a five-minute walk from the Victoria Falls rainforest, with convenient access to safari circuits, guided tours, restaurants and cultural experiences.
Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders”, is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains one of Africa’s most important tourism destinations.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Albwardy Investments to bring the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls,” said Ludwig Bouldoukian, Regional Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt.
“With its landmark location just moments from the Victoria Falls rainforest, this property represents a truly exceptional setting. This signing marks a significant milestone in Hyatt’s continued expansion across Africa, reinforcing our commitment on growing our brand presence in the region and providing World of Hyatt members more travel choice in inspiring destinations.”
The transformation of The Kingdom Hotel is expected to introduce a new level of luxury hospitality to Victoria Falls, with the property set to feature 245 guestrooms, three dining venues, a spa and fitness centre, a grand lobby lounge and 1,800 square metres of meeting and event space.
Albwardy Investments Chairman Ali Albwardy said the redevelopment represented an opportunity to build on the legacy of one of Victoria Falls’ most established hotels.
“We are proud to collaborate with Hyatt on plans to introduce the Grand Hyatt brand to Victoria Falls,” he said.
“As one of the destination’s most established hospitality landmarks for more than 60 years, the property holds significant heritage and potential within Zimbabwe. Through its transformation under the Grand Hyatt brand, and with plans to reopen in late 2027, we aim to create an elevated hospitality experience that celebrates the culture, energy and significance of Victoria Falls, further reinforcing our commitment to Africa’s hospitality sector.”
The refurbished hotel will also be positioned to serve conference delegates and business travellers, alongside international leisure visitors. Located approximately 20 minutes from Victoria Falls International Airport, the property will provide convenient access to the region’s attractions while offering facilities designed for events, wellness and culinary experiences.
The reopening of Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls The Kingdom comes as Zimbabwe seeks to expand its tourism offering through increased investment in high-quality accommodation and infrastructure. The arrival of one of Hyatt’s flagship luxury brands is expected to enhance Victoria Falls’ appeal among international travellers and reinforce the resort town’s position as a leading destination in Africa.
