Egypt and Morocco are dominating the hotel development boom in Africa, with more than 123,000 rooms under construction across 675 projects in 2026, representing 45% of the continent’s pipeline. This North African leadership, driven by giants like Marriott and Accor, underscores the continent’s growing attractiveness for international tourism and hotel investment.

Record Pipeline in 2026

The W Hospitality Group’s 2026 report reveals an 18.6% increase in African hotel projects, with Egypt leading the way (45,984 rooms across 185 properties, or 33% of the total). Morocco follows with 10,606 rooms across 75 hotels, the two countries capturing 45% of developments thanks to coastal resorts and urban hubs. The top 10 markets (including Kenya and Ethiopia) account for 79% of construction projects, illustrating a focus on mature destinations.

Egyptian and Moroccan Leadership

Egypt is accelerating its growth with 39 deals signed in 2025 and 33 openings planned for 2026, boosted by international chains which represent 80% of the pipeline.

Growth Drivers

This progress is explained by a post-Covid recovery (discount rate of 38% in 2024), investments in the MENA region (23% annual growth), and the surge in tourism to Africa. Marriott (31,782 rooms) and Accor dominate, targeting North Africa for its return of global travelers and its competitiveness within the AfCFTA. Morocco excels in advanced construction projects (72% under construction), while Egypt is focusing on securing large-scale deals.

Challenges for Africa

This boom generates jobs and foreign exchange, but exposes disparities: sub-Saharan Africa is stagnating at 6% growth, with projects stalled in Nigeria and Ghana. In the long term, it positions Egypt and Morocco as regional hubs, stimulating the economy through business and leisure tourism, while also highlighting the need for continental diversification to balance tourist flows.