As South Africa welcomes global leaders for the 2023 BRICS Summit, its celebrated hospitality industry is emerging as one of the stars of the event.
Millat Investments which owns two Hyatt House properties in Sandton and Rosebank close to where the event is taking place is reporting a 100% occupancy and has also hosted several fully subscribed sideline conferences and events at its Hyatt Regency Cape Town property as well as the Winston Hotel in Rosebank.
Says Hamza Farooqui, Millat CEO: As delegates from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa converge on our shores, they should be embraced by warmth and unity, and I believe our celebrated hospitality industry is poised to shine even brighter over the next few days and offer exactly that.”
He says the Summit isn’t just a diplomatic event – it’s a spectacular showcase for South African hospitality. “Every time we welcome such global events, it offers an unrivalled opportunity for our local hospitality sector to demonstrate our world-class service, luxurious accommodation, and rich cultural experiences.”
He also emphasises the long-term impact of the summit on South African tourism. “Beyond the immediate boost in occupancy rates, the BRICS Summit must serve as an important marketing campaign for South Africa. The eyes of the world are upon us, and this is the time for the sector to highlight South Africa as a prime destination for both business and leisure tourism.”
Farooqui also highlights the significance of the industry’s role in painting South Africa in a favourable light. “It’s not just about hosting the attendees for the week of the summit; it’s about leaving a lasting impression that resonates long after the event concludes. From the majestic landscapes of Cape Town to the bustling urban centres of Johannesburg, our country offers diverse experiences that cater to any traveller’s desire.”
Farooqui says the hard work though is only starting, stressing the importance of leveraging this global attention.
“South Africa’s hospitality sector has a golden chance to capitalise on this momentum. By delivering unparalleled experiences to our guests during the Summit, we not only champion our industry’s prowess but also solidify our nation’s position as a leading global destination for years to come.”
Farooqui adds that from an investment and business perspective, the Summit’s impact on South Africa’s hospitality industry underscores the significant potential for both local and international investors. “When global audiences witness South Africa’s capacity to flawlessly cater to such a prominent summit, it amplifies the country’s credibility as an investment destination. As these leaders take back their experiences and narratives, South Africa’s potential for foreign direct investment and collaborative ventures grows exponentially. With the world’s eyes on the nation, now is the opportune moment for the South African business community to present themselves as reliable, innovative, and ready for the next wave of global business partnerships.”
About the Millat Group
The group is a private family office that uses its own balance sheet to bring entrepreneurial solutions to complex commercial problems. The group has a strong investment portfolio which includes real estate, direct investments, and private equity holdings. It owns flagship assets in South Africa and internationally. It deploys its capital and know-how on assets and sectors it deeply understands. Its sectors of expertise include real estate, hospitality, technology, and financial services.
