Blue Nile Resort Hotels PLC to rebrand to Protea Hotel by Marriott
From the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum in Nairobi, Marriott International announced five deal signings in Africa under its Protea Hotels by Marriott brand. The signed projects reinforce the company’s commitment to expanding its presence across the continent and highlight the demand for the Protea Hotels by Marriott brand.
“Protea Hotels by Marriott has a long-established legacy in Africa, and we are excited to further strengthen the brand’s footprint in the continent with these five signings,” said Karim Cheltout, Regional Vice President – Development, Africa & All-Inclusive, EMEA at Marriott International. “While we continue to see demand for new build opportunities, the brand is seeing an uptick in conversion projects where developers are looking to rebrand their existing property into a Protea Hotel.”
Protea Hotels by Marriott is expected to make its debut in Ethiopia with the opening of Protea by Marriott Bahir Dar. The conversion deal was signed with Blue Nile Resort Hotels PLC to rebrand its Blue Nile Resort to a Protea Hotel following a full renovation. The property is expected to be rebranded to Protea by Marriott Bahir Dar by 2025 and will offer 127 guest rooms and suites, multiple dining outlets, a fitness centre and nearly 1,000 sqm of meetings and event space. The hotel is situated next to Lake Tana and a short distance from Blue Nile River.
Protea Hotels by Marriott is a leading hospitality brand in Africa and one of the most widely recognized across the continent. With properties in primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations, the brand remains a popular choice for travellers into Africa. In line with brand standards, the five projects will feature modern facilities, proactive and friendly service and consistent amenities such as full-service restaurants, meeting spaces and well-appointed rooms.
Marriott International’s current portfolio in Africa features nearly 140 properties and more than 24,000 rooms across 20 countries and 19 brands.
Protea Hotels by Marriott represent more than 40 percent of Marriott International’s portfolio in Africa with over 60 properties and more than 6,500 rooms in operation across nine countries.
