The First Group Hospitality and MIDROC Investment Group Strengthen Ethiopia’s Hospitality Sector with 10-Property Agreement
Significant Expansion in Ethiopia’s Hospitality Landscape
The First Group Hospitality and MIDROC Investment Group have formalized a master agreement to develop and manage ten properties across Ethiopia. This initiative represents a notable advancement in the availability of internationally branded hospitality assets in the East African nation. The agreement was signed during the Future Hospitality Summit Africa held in Nairobi.
The planned portfolio encompasses both independent and Marriott-branded franchised hotels situated in key urban and gateway locations, including Addis Ababa, Hawassa, Bahir Dar, Jimma, Langano, and Danbi. The hotels are projected to provide approximately 1,140 keys, with openings scheduled to occur in phases from 2026 to 2031.
Strategic Alignment for Growth
This agreement aligns with The First Group Hospitality’s strategy to expand its third-party and white-label management operations in Africa. For MIDROC Investment Group, based in Addis Ababa, this partnership enhances its hospitality division’s growth trajectory within Ethiopia.
David Thomson, Senior Vice President of Development at The First Group Hospitality, emphasized Ethiopia’s potential as a hospitality growth market in East Africa. He noted the ongoing investments in tourism and infrastructure that support this expansion. Thomson stated that the collaboration with MIDROC Investment Group enables them to establish a significant presence in the market alongside a partner with extensive local expertise, ultimately delivering high-performing assets and creating long-term value across key destinations.
Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Solomon Zewdu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MIDROC Hospitality, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the combination of The First Group’s strong development and operational track record with a mutual vision for sustainable tourism growth in Ethiopia. Zewdu remarked on their commitment to fostering Ethiopian talent and showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage through authentic hospitality experiences. He noted the anticipated strong long-term demand across both business and leisure segments, positioning the partnership to respond effectively at scale.
Recent Developments in the Hospitality Sector
This announcement follows a series of recent initiatives by The First Group Hospitality, including the launch of Ciel Dubai Marina and the Vignette Collection by IHG, which is recognized as the world’s tallest hotel. The company has also signed franchise agreements with major players such as Marriott International, Radisson Hotel Group, and IHG.
About The First Group Hospitality
The First Group Hospitality is a full-service hospitality management company headquartered in Dubai, specializing in hotel operations, asset management, and food and beverage strategy. With a team of industry veterans and a proven track record, the company provides tailored solutions that enhance operational efficiency, optimize revenue, and maximize asset value for investors and hotel owners. As a trusted third-party hotel management provider, The First Group partners with leading global brands to drive operational excellence and long-term profitability.
About MIDROC Investment Group
MIDROC Investment Group is among the largest and most influential private business conglomerates in Ethiopia. Its mission is to foster economic development through private investment. Operating across various sectors—including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, commerce, construction, real estate, and hospitality—MIDROC directly creates employment opportunities for over 80,000 individuals. Since the 1990s, the group has played a pivotal role in transforming Ethiopia’s hospitality sector, significantly contributing to the industry’s growth and development.
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Published on 2026-03-31 23:13:00 • By the Editorial Desk
