Its acquisition last year by Kasada, Accor's preferred partner for its expansion in sub-Saharan Africa, was the first step in this direction. Visit Cape Graceone of Cape Town's leading hotels, will become a fully-fledged Fairmont property by the end of the year. " We couldn't think of a more iconic hotel than the Cape Grace to establish our footprint in South Africa." said Mark Willis, CEO of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Situated along the bustling Victoria & Albert Waterfront, with the famous Table Mountain as a backdrop, the establishment is an ideal setting for both affluent tourists and business travellers in search of exclusivity. " It is intended to be one of the finest hotels in Africa" explained Olivier Granet last year, interviewed by Business Travel. Already managed by Accor, the hotel will close its doors from 29 May to 30 November to undergo a renovation phase. On completion, the Cape Grace by Fairmont will offer 120 rooms, a bar and restaurant, and a number of spaces for VIP meetings.
A different continent, but still a luxurious atmosphere and almost identical timing: Fairmont to open in Dalian next autumnin northern China. This time, the luxury brand is preparing to take over the walls of a historic hotel in the metropolis of Liaoning province, built in the last century in a baroque style inspired by the Renaissance. In association with the Dalian Culture & Tourism Group and the local municipal government, this listed and protected site is currently being renovated to restore the hotel to its former glory. this establishment, which has welcomed many celebrities in the pastheads of government and dignitaries. When completed, it will offer 70 rooms, a Fairmont Gold lounge, as well as numerous meeting rooms and a vast ballroom.
In an equally luxurious but more contemporary style, other Accor brands have announced new developments. The SO/ brand, part of the lifestyle hotels subsidiary Ennismorewill be based in Jeddah from this year with a 147-key hotel, subdivided into around forty classic rooms and a hundred long-stay flats, all close to the business and shopping districts of the Saudi metropolis.
Looking further ahead, the Mondrian brand is also set to establish itself in Saudi Arabia, with a half-hotel, half-residential establishment expected in Riyadh in 2026, as part of the Al Malga Urban Village complex. The year 2026 will also see another lifestyle brand from Accor's takeover of the American group SBE, Delano, set up shop in Riyadh. in Seoul. For the occasion, the brand will be rolling out its more intimate Maison Delano concept, which has just appeared in Paris. Located in the Gangnam district, Maison Delano Seoul will offer 81 rooms and 52 residences, all in a building topped by a rooftop swimming pool.
