Jamaican prime minister Portia Simpson Miller addresses the crowd at the grand opening of the resort

The official grand opening of the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall and Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall, Hyatt’s first dual-branded all inclusive resort in Jamaica, has been celebrated in Montego Bay.

Addressing an industry audience at the event, Jamaican prime minister, Portia Simpson Miller, described the opening as a “monumental milestone for Jamaica’s tourism”.

The prime minister joined the resort’s owners and operators, Playa Hotels & Resorts, in a ribbon cutting ceremony and gala evening to mark the official opening of the 620 guestroom property.

Situated on the site of the former Ritz Carlton hotel, the project is the culmination of more than an $85 million dollar renovation and recreation of this iconic beachfront site at Rose Hall.

Simpson Miller said: “The opening of resorts like these is significant for the tourism industry, our economy and our people.

“We want our industry to grow not simply in quantity but in quality, and the new Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Hotels represent quality.”

Jamaican tourism minister Wykeham Mcneill, prime minster Portia Simpson, Hyatt Rose Hall general manager Carl Hendriks, and Playa Hotels chief executive Bruce Wardinski cut the ribbon during the official opening ceremony

Spanning 1,200 feet of private, pristine coastline on the turquoise Caribbean, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall and Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall share the same resort grounds and combine to form an unparalleled, all inclusive resort experience.

Dining takes centre stage and is led by an international culinary team that oversees unique offerings in each of the à la carte, buffet and innovative poolside ‘food cart’ experiences.

The fresh flavours of the Caribbean are creatively melded into unmatched dining experiences ranging from the casual local favourites of Jamaican Jerk to an authentic Churrascaria Brazilian Steak House, to Jamaica’s only Moroccan style Fez Roof Top Lounge. 

Guests may enjoy an explosion of tastes, cultures and fine dining all complemented with an excellent wine and spirit collection served by creative mixologists and rum sommeliers.

Playa chief executive Bruce Wardinski said: “The celebration is a culmination of joint efforts among Playa, the people of Jamaica, and Hyatt.

“For almost two years we have collectively worked to bring to life a sophisticated and inspired resort that would reflect the warmth and gracious service of Jamaica in an exhilarating and unique environment.

“As I see these concepts come to life through all of the resort’s many special touches and island firsts, I can only thank our partners and our fantastic resort staff led by general manager Carl Hendriks.”