IHG acquires the first Voco resort in the Africa and Middle East region

IHG Hotels & Resorts has expanded its presence in the Middle East and Africa region through a recent management agreement with Akam Al Rajhi for the establishment of Voco North Coast in Egypt. This agreement not only reinforces the existing footprint of the Voco hotel brand in the MEA region but also marks a significant milestone as the first Voco resort in the area. The development aims to meet the rising demand for leisure accommodations on Egypt's north coast. Anticipated to open its doors in December 2026, Voco North Coast will feature 300 keys and is strategically located in one of Egypt's most sought-after leisure destinations. The area is renowned for hosting a variety of sports, arts, and entertainment events, making it an ideal location for a resort. The property will be part of the Dose development, situated 23 km from Egypt's new Al Alamein Airport.

Haitham Mattar, MD, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG said: “We are excited to bring the first Voco resort in the region to the north coast of Egypt. The country welcomed nearly 5 million tourists in the first six months of 2022 and has a target to reach 30 million tourists annually under its 2030 objectives, heightening the importance of new-built hotels and an increase in rooms. We have a strong existing pipeline in Egypt, and we remain committed to our expansions and growth plans in the country by continuing to introduce diverse and unique offerings to guests visiting the various destinations within the country. The Voco brand is already popular across our existing locations in the Middle East, offering a premium experience to guests. We are confident that our first Voco resort on the beautiful beachfront of the North coast will be a preferred choice for travellers visiting the destination.”

Essam Mansour, chairman, Akam Al Rajhi Developments, commented: “We are pleased to partner with the IHG Hotels and Resorts Group to develop the new Voco resort in the company’s Dose project on the northwest coast in the distinctive and charming Ras El-Hikma area, as it is one of the most important investment areas on Egypt’s tourist map during the current and future period, given for the attractiveness of this charming region, which has the third best beach in the world. Akam Al Rajhi’s strategy and plans during the coming period depend on expanding in the best vital areas in Egypt, which are in line with the country’s development plans, especially in coastal cities. As an integral part of the Dose Village North Coast community, the resort will offer guests a picturesque setting with sea-facing views and proximity to the beach. The community itself comprises low-rise buildings, chalets, and townhouses along the beachfront.”

Designed to cater to wellness-oriented travellers, Voco North Coast will boast amenities such as a swimming pool, spa, health club, and running and biking tracks. Additionally, guests can enjoy a shopping mall, Dose Aqua Park, and a diverse range of dining options amidst natural landscapes and artificial lakes. For business travellers, the resort will feature event spaces spanning 1,375 sq ft. This multifaceted approach ensures that Voco North Coast appeals to a diverse range of guests, blending leisure and business offerings seamlessly.

Edrees Mohamed, CEO, Akam Al Rajhi Developments, commented: “We are pleased to embark on this strategic partnership with the IHG Hotels and Resorts Group, which aims to launch and develop a new Voco resort in the Dose project, the company’s first business in the Egyptian market, which offers a new and innovative idea to create a coastal resort. It is comparable to international resorts and provides practical and substantial solutions to most of the challenges faced by clients in the North Coast region, which makes being inside the project a real pleasure for those looking for comfort, relaxation, luxury, and quality of life. This cooperation with the IHG Hotels and Resorts group, which enjoys a prominent regional and international position, constitutes a real attraction factor of the project, which is to provide a distinguished hospitality experience that is in line with the vision of Akam Al Rajhi Company.”