Southern Sun announces R1.5 billion hotel project at Oceans Umhlanga

THE Oceans Umhlanga development continues to anchor major investment in KwaZulu-Natal, with Southern Sun announcing a landmark R1.5 billion hotel and residences project set to open in late 2027.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI

The announcement, made during the official roof wetting ceremony of the R1.4bn North Residential Tower on Friday, further cements Oceans Umhlanga's position as a key driver of regional economic growth.

Southern Sun CEO Marcel von Aulock said: “We're thrilled to be part of this extraordinary development. Oceans Umhlanga offers a world-class setting with unmatched positioning, and we are proud to anchor the hospitality component.

“This new hotel will stand as a flagship for our group and a key asset in our national portfolio.”

The new property will be called Southern Sun Hotel & Residences Oceans Umhlanga and will cater to both shortand long-stay guests. It marks Southern Sun's return to the area nearly 60 years after opening the Beverly Hills Hotel and adds to its existing portfolio of over 90 hotels and more than 300 conference venues across Southern Africa.

“This development represents a new opportunity for us to both increase our capacity in the vibrant Umhlanga Rocks area as well as enter a new market for quality serviced apartments,” said von Aulock.

“We are proud to be able to partner with the Oceans Umhlanga team and look forward to bringing something special to the market.”