The government of Benin has approved a major tourism development project in Ouidah, aiming to strengthen the country’s position as a high-end travel destination.
During a Council of Ministers meeting on 24 September 2025, authorities gave the green light for the construction of three luxury hotel complexes in the Avlékété area.
The 30-month project will see the establishment of hotels across different star categories to cater to a range of international and domestic tourists.
The plan includes a 12.5-hectare 5-star Banyan Tree hotel, featuring 30 private bungalows, swimming pools, a spa, international cuisine restaurants, and sports facilities.
A 4-star Angsana hotel will be built on 13.5 hectares, offering 120 rooms, restaurants, galleries, meeting rooms, leisure areas, and swimming pools.
Finally, a 3-star hotel on 11 hectares will provide 120 rooms alongside wellness areas, swimming pools, and sports fields including padel and tennis courts.
Project management and construction supervision will be handled by a specialist firm, overseeing design, technical studies, contractor selection, and site supervision.
According to government officials, the developments are part of a broader strategy to diversify Benin’s tourism offerings and promote sustainable travel. The initiative is expected to stimulate the local economy, create both direct and indirect employment, and establish Avlékété as a destination for national and international visitors.
The Ouidah project follows the momentum created by the opening of the Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa in September 2024.
Cotonou is also preparing to welcome two new Rotana group hotels: a 4-star resort on 8.6 hectares with 102 rooms, luxury villas, a spa, panoramic pools, and sports facilities, and an EDGE by Rotana hotel on 5.4 hectares with 80 rooms and modern amenities including restaurants and wellness areas.
These projects, each planned to last 30 months, are expected to generate several hundred jobs and reinforce Benin’s ambitions in luxury tourism.
With these investments, the government aims to position Benin as a competitive destination for high-end tourism while supporting sustainable economic growth.
About The Author
