President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe announced a significant potential investment in luxury hospitality from Emaar Properties, the Dubai-based developer behind the Burj Khalifa, during a working meeting with the company’s founder, Mohamed Alabbar. According to a statement shared on Mnangagwa’s Facebook page, the two leaders finalized plans for a massive new investment in premium hospitality
aimed at introducing luxury hotels to Zimbabwe. Emaar’s executive delegation is scheduled to visit the country later this month to conduct site inspections and refine project details, as reported by Fsxbusiness.
Emaar Properties to Invest in Zimbabwe Luxury Hotels, as Delegation Prepares Site Visit
The proposed development, which has not yet disclosed specifics such as location, investment value, or construction timelines, is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate local businesses, Mnangagwa stated. The initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond mining and strengthen tourism as a source of foreign exchange and employment. Emaar, one of the Middle East’s largest property developers, has a portfolio that includes the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, according to Fsxbusiness.
Alabbar’s Africa Expansion and Zimbabwe’s Tourism Ambitions
Alabbar, the visionary founder of Emaar Properties, has been exploring opportunities in Africa, with Zimbabwe’s hospitality sector emerging as a focus. Mnangagwa highlighted that the investment would position Zimbabwe as a destination for international travelers, leveraging the country’s natural attractions and improving infrastructure.
Alabbar’s interest in Zimbabwe dates back to 2024, when reports indicated discussions about luxury hotels and upscale residential developments following his meeting with Mnangagwa during the president’s visit to Dubai. The current phase of engagement, however, represents a more formalized effort to advance these plans.
Role of Zimbabwe’s Investment Adviser in Facilitating the Deal
The collaboration between Mnangagwa and Alabbar was arranged and coordinated by the president’s Special Advisor on Investment and Empowerment, Dr. Paul Tungwarara. Mnangagwa credited Tungwarara with playing a vital role in advancing Zimbabwe’s economic diplomacy and attracting international partnerships.
Potential Economic Impact and Job Creation
Zimbabwe’s government anticipates that the Emaar-led project will generate thousands of jobs and create business opportunities for local suppliers. The initiative is part of a broader push to bolster the tourism sector, which has been a focus for economic diversification. Mnangagwa emphasized that the investment would strengthen the country’s position as a leading tourist destination,
citing the potential to attract international travelers through high-quality hospitality infrastructure, as reported by Business Insider Africa.
Emaar’s involvement brings global expertise to Zimbabwe’s hospitality market, with the company’s track record in developing landmark projects like the Burj Khalifa. The upcoming site inspections will determine the project’s scope, including the number of hotels and their branding, according to Fsxbusiness.
Context of Dubai’s Hospitality Downturn and Strategic Shifts
The timing of Emaar’s investment in Zimbabwe coincides with challenges in Dubai’s hotel sector, which has faced a dramatic downturn in 2026 due to regional conflicts and disruptions in international aviation. Luxury hotels in Dubai, which had previously maintained high occupancy rates, saw their averages drop significantly, according to eTurboNews. However, the partnership with Zimbabwe appears to be part of an ongoing strategy, as Alabbar’s discussions with Mnangagwa in 2024 predated the current crisis, as noted in eTurboNews.
Despite the challenges in Dubai, Emaar’s continued expansion into new markets highlights its adaptability. The company’s global portfolio includes projects in countries such as India, Saudi Arabia, and Syria, underscoring its ability to pursue opportunities in emerging economies. Zimbabwe’s natural attractions, including Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, may further enhance the appeal of the proposed developments, as mentioned in eTurboNews.
