Marriott International is bringing its luxury Edition hotel brand to Africa for the first time, with a planned opening in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2026. The new hotel will be located on the city’s popular V&A Waterfront, a major tourism and entertainment hub.
Project Details and Amenities
The Cape Town Edition will feature 142 guest rooms and suites designed by Shanghai-based Neri & Hu in collaboration with local StudioMas architects. The hotel will include multiple dining options, including a rooftop bar, a spa, a swimming pool, and meeting spaces. Marriott emphasizes that the design will integrate “thoughtfully curated social spaces” reflecting Cape Town’s culture and energy.
The waterfront location will offer guests views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, as well as access to a new public promenade and the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre.
Market Context and Significance
This expansion marks a key step for Marriott’s Edition brand, positioning it in a growing luxury travel market. Currently, Marriott operates other hotels in Cape Town, including Westin and Autograph Collection properties, but the Edition is expected to deliver a more upscale experience.
“Cape Town is a city that embodies creativity, diversity, and a dynamic spirit — qualities that align perfectly with the [Edition’s] ethos,” said Karim Cheltout, Marriott’s senior vice president of development for the Middle East and Africa.
The V&A Waterfront, where the hotel will be built, is already a major attraction for tourists and locals alike. The introduction of The Cape Town Edition is expected to draw more high-end travelers to the area, further solidifying its reputation as a luxury destination.
David Green, CEO of the V&A Waterfront, stated that this project “will offer guests a plethora of destination-led experiences and direct access to the world’s leading luxury retail brands, top-class restaurants, charter cruises and other incredible experiences.”
This expansion reflects the increasing demand for luxury accommodations in Cape Town, which has become a sought-after destination for international tourists. The Edition’s arrival will likely set a new standard for upscale hospitality in the region.
The hotel is scheduled to open in 2026, and industry observers anticipate its opening will significantly impact the local luxury tourism sector.
