Rotana to Establish Somalia’s First Five-Star Hotel in Mogadishu

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Rotana, the internationally renowned hotel management company, has announced the construction of Somalia’s first five-star hotel in Mogadishu.

This landmark project signifies a major advancement in the nation’s economic and urban development, highlighting Mogadishu’s emergence as a key urban and business hub in the region.

Scheduled for completion in 2026, the Mogadishu Rotana will feature 321 rooms, including 261 guest accommodations and 60 hotel apartments. The hotel is designed to seamlessly blend modern luxury with Somali cultural elements, reflecting the city’s rich heritage while catering to international standards.

This flagship property is set to become a symbol of Mogadishu’s resurgence and its potential to attract global tourism and business.

Strategically located near Aden Adde International Airport, the Mogadishu Rotana is a central component of the $400 million Gateway Complex Project.

This expansive initiative includes a convention center, a 300-bed hospital, a school, premium residential units, a shopping mall, and a business park.

The Gateway Complex aligns with the broader “New Mogadishu” strategy, aimed at revitalizing the capital’s economic landscape and drawing significant international investments.

Philip Barnes, CEO of Rotana, emphasized the project’s significance during a press conference.

“The Mogadishu Rotana aims to set a new standard for luxury and service in East Africa. It will serve as a hub for international business, tourism, and cultural exchange,” Barnes stated. Jibril Hassan Mohamed, chairman of Premier Bank and Riverside Holding, echoed this sentiment, adding, “This venture represents a pivotal advancement in Somalia’s hospitality sector and underscores our commitment to Mogadishu’s cultural and economic renaissance.”

Managed by Aleph Hospitality, a Dubai-based firm, the Mogadishu Rotana will join Rotana’s extensive portfolio of 81 operational properties across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey.

This development is part of the Somali government’s master plan to modernize Mogadishu and enhance its infrastructure. Initiated by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the “New Mogadishu” initiative also includes a $650 million plan to develop a modern airport and port, further boosting trade and connectivity.

This strategic development underscores Somalia’s dedication to rebuilding and positioning Mogadishu as a premier destination for business, tourism, and international collaboration.