Marriott International, Inc. and V&A Waterfront Holdings have signed an agreement to open The Cape Town EDITION at the iconic V&A Waterfront in 2026, marking the debut of the EDITION Hotels brand in Africa. The development represents a major milestone in Marriott International’s growth strategy on the continent, bringing EDITION’s signature blend of refined luxury, innovative design and highly personalised service to one of Africa’s most visited cities.
Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President, Development, Middle East and Africa at Marriott International, said the agreement underscores the company’s confidence in Cape Town as a global destination. He described the city as one that reflects creativity, diversity and dynamic energy, qualities that strongly align with the EDITION brand, adding that the V&A Waterfront location provides an ideal setting to redefine luxury hospitality in the market.
The Cape Town EDITION is expected to feature 142 elegantly designed guest rooms and suites, complemented by world-class dining offerings including a signature rooftop bar. The hotel will also include a spa, swimming pool, meeting and event facilities, and a range of curated social spaces designed to reflect Cape Town’s cultural richness and cosmopolitan character.
Plans for the project also include The Residences at The Cape Town EDITION, comprising six exclusive private residences. These homes are designed to embody the brand’s hallmark of contemporary luxury and refined simplicity, setting a new benchmark for high-end urban living in the city.
The hotel and residences will be designed by Shanghai-based architectural firm Neri & Hu, working in collaboration with Cape Town-based StudioMAS. In keeping with the EDITION philosophy, the development aims to seamlessly blend modern luxury with authentic local expression, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
David Green, Chief Executive Officer of the V&A Waterfront, said the project is an architecturally striking addition that will introduce EDITION Hotels to Africa for the first time. He noted that Cape Town is joining a select group of global cities with an EDITION property, at a time when tourism demand continues to grow. According to him, the hotel will offer guests immersive, destination-led experiences with direct access to luxury retail, fine dining, charter cruises and other premium offerings at the Waterfront.
Located at the edge of the planned Granger Bay development, The Cape Town EDITION will sit within one of the Southern Hemisphere’s oldest working harbours and among Africa’s most popular destinations. The property will offer panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the City Bowl and renowned landmarks including Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill. Guests and residents will also benefit from proximity to the Waterfront’s amphitheatre, Battery Park, heliport, superyacht facilities, extensive dining and retail options, and a newly developed public promenade along the water’s edge.
With its prime location and design-led approach, The Cape Town EDITION is expected to strengthen Cape Town’s position as a leading global tourism and lifestyle destination while introducing a new standard of luxury hospitality to the African market.
