AccorHotels has signed to develop Mövenpick Hotel Dakar in partnership with Excellenc6 Senegal Hotels & Resorts.

Opening in early 2021, the 462-key hotel will be in Diamniadio – a new dynamic city developed by the Senegal government, close to Dakar’s new Blaise Diagne International Airport, as well as the expanding seaport of Bargny.

The signing marks the launch of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts in Senegal and strengthens the brand’s footprint in western Africa.

The hotel will benefit from a prime location in a mixed-used development with financial, residential, recreational and conference districts, as well as a university, state ministries and a 50-hectare industrial park.

Following the signing, Marc Descrozaille, Accor chief operating officer, commented: “This strategic project with our valued partner not only solidifies Movenpick’s presence in this fast-developing region but also affirms our group’s long-standing affinity with Senegal, cemented with the opening of our first hotels in Dakar almost 50 years ago under our midscale and luxury brands.

“With its vast range of renowned facilities and restaurants, unique style of Swiss hospitality and sought-after location – in the heart Diamniadio and close to both international airports – Mövenpick Hotel Dakar will be well positioned to cater to strong demand generated by a growing number of business and leisure travellers visiting this vibrant capital city.”

Following the acquisition of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts earlier this year, AccorHotels has a committed network (operational and pipeline) in the Middle East and Africa of over 400 hotels, representing close to 100,000 rooms across 35 countries in the region.