Multi-billion rand Umhlanga hotel opens to the public

The brand new Radisson Blu hotel in Umhlanga had a grand opening recently, signaling the launch of the first part of the multi-billion rand development.

Umhlanga Radisson Blu: Phase one complete

The much anticipated Radisson Blu Hotel Durban Umhlanga opened it’s doors to the public on Friday, 3 June. This kick-off event officially marked the launch of the first phase of a R4.5 billion development in the Umhlanga Rocks area.

The first phase consisted of the 206 key 5-star Radisson Blu Hotel as well as 95 luxury apartments.

Businessman Vivian Reddy, who is the co-developer of the project, said that the other two phases were the 36 000 square foot Oceans Mall, which will include a diamond walk featuring international brands. Above the Oceans Mall will be another 500 towers.

“It is a project that is quite unique in the way that it is designed. The residents above in the apartments will have full Radisson services. We picked Radisson Blu because we believe the Radisson Group is the ideal and most suitable hotel group in Africa for this kind of project. It’s a project that has been through tough times, but at the end of the day, it has become a reality.” Reddy said.

The mall is scheduled to open in October this year, while the towers are expected to open in December next year reports IOL.

Well-known guests at the launch

Among those who attended the grand opening event were His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, Miss South Africa, and the cast of the ‘Real Housewives of Durban’ reality show.

Others in attendance were Premier Sihle Zikalala, cabinet ministers, the Mayor of eThekwini, and other captains of the tourism industry in South Africa.

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