First Hilton Garden Inn for South Africa

Hilton has signed a management agreement with UA Hotel Company to open the Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch in Umhlanga, Durban on South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal coast.

The new hotel will be part of Umhlanga Arch, a major mixed-use development under construction in Umhlanga’s Ridgeside precinct.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, EMEA, Hilton, said: “Umhlanga is a terrific location in which to launch Hilton Garden Inn in South Africa. A popular upmarket commercial and leisure destination, Umhlanga is one of South Africa’s fastest-growing economic areas.

“The relocation of nearby King Shaka International Airport in 2010 and a significant boost in office space is driving considerable growth in corporate traffic, creating demand for what will be our first Hilton Garden Inn in South Africa.”

Charles Thompson, UA Hotel Company, added: “We are pleased to announce Hilton as our international hotel partner. The hotel will operate under its Hilton Garden Inn brand, a quality, upper midscale brand with a proven track record of providing exceptional service – the perfect fit for Umhlanga Arch.

“Along with the hotel, this exciting project will include offices, retail space and contemporary apartments across 45,000 square metres of development.”

The 207 guestroom Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch will be situated within easy access to King Shaka International Airport, La Lucia Ridge, Durban and the Gateway Theatre of Shopping. The hotel will offer its own business and fitness centres, outdoor pool and various food and beverage outlets, including a garden and lounge bar.

Africa is home to nearly 90 Hilton hotels trading and under development across five brands, including Hilton Garden Inn. The brand has proven successful across the region with more than 150 hotels across Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch will be located on Umhlanga Rocks Drive in Umhlanga Ridge, Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa.