Nigeria, UAE Launch Major Tourism Projects to Boost Economic & Cultural Ties

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Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced a landmark partnership on October 31, featuring three major tourism projects designed to deepen bilateral relations and catalyse cultural and economic growth.

The initiatives, unveiled by Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, include the luxury Koko Beach Resort in Lagos, a state-of-the-art Cultural Centre in Abuja, and a new flagship Rotana Hotel.

These projects, highlighted during the recent UAE–Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025 in Dubai, are set to transform Nigeria’s tourism landscape and solidify its position as a key destination in the global travel industry.

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Koko Beach Resort: Lagos’ New Premier Destination

The first significant development is the Koko Beach Resort, an upscale destination set to elevate Lagos as a top-tier beach location. The Curio Collection by Hilton is developing the project, which is already 12% complete, in Ilashe, Lagos.

Once finished, the 60-room resort will offer a blend of luxury suites and private villas, fine dining, and a range of recreational facilities, including beach activities, wellness services, and entertainment options. Accessible by boat or helicopter, the resort is strategically poised to attract international tourists and meet the growing demand for high-end leisure experiences.

This project will not only stimulate the local economy by generating new jobs and business opportunities but also serve as a symbol of Nigeria’s growing capacity to attract premier investment in the tourism sector.

 

Cultural Centre in Abuja: A Hub for Nigerian Heritage

The second landmark project is the creation of a national cultural centre in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. This venue will serve as a dynamic hub for celebrating and promoting Nigeria’s diverse heritage and booming creative industries. The centre is planned to host a variety of exhibitions, performances, and workshops, offering an immersive experience for both tourists and locals.

This initiative will enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a cultural destination, fostering international dialogue and showcasing the country’s rich artistic traditions. The UAE’s investment in this project underscores the role of cultural diplomacy in promoting mutual respect and cooperation, positioning Abuja as a vibrant centre for the arts in Africa.

 

Flagship Rotana Hotel: Elevating Nigeria’s Hospitality

The third pillar of this collaboration is the establishment of a flagship Rotana Hotel, a move that is poised to elevate Nigeria’s hospitality sector significantly. We are still deciding on the final location between Abuja and Lagos, but we anticipate the hotel to become a major destination for both business and leisure travellers.

This development represents a significant investment in Nigeria’s tourism infrastructure, providing world-class facilities and luxury accommodations. The hotel will cater to an increasing number of international visitors. It will stand as a testament to the UAE’s expanding role in Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry, attracting more Emirati businesses to Nigeria’s market.

 

A Partnership for Diversification and Growth

These projects are central to Nigeria’s broader national strategy for diversifying its economy and reducing its reliance on oil revenues. By investing in the tourism and creative industries, Nigeria is positioning itself to become a global tourism hub.

A shared commitment to sustainable and mutually beneficial growth underpins this strategic partnership. As the Koko Beach Resort, Cultural Centre, and Rotana Hotel come to life, they will symbolically strengthen economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and the UAE, paving the way for a collaborative future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) And Answers

What are the three new tourism projects that Nigeria and the UAE have announced? The three major projects are:

• The Koko Beach Resort in Ilashe, Lagos, will be a luxury property managed as part of the Curio Collection by Hilton.
• A new cultural centre in Abuja, designed to showcase Nigeria’s arts and heritage.
• A flagship Rotana Hotel, with the location to be finalised in either Lagos or Abuja.

What is the status of the Koko Beach Resort project? 

According to Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Koko Beach Resort project is already 12% complete.

Who is developing the Koko Beach Resort? 

Outposts Investment Limited is developing the resort and will be part of the prestigious Curio Collection by Hilton, making it an internationally branded luxury destination.

Why are Nigeria and the UAE collaborating on these projects? 

This partnership is part of Nigeria’s national strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil, with a focus on the high-growth sectors of tourism and the creative economy. For the UAE, it represents a significant investment in the African tourism market, strengthening bilateral ties.

When were these projects announced? 

Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa officially announced the initiatives during the UAE–Africa Tourism Investment Summit 2025, which took place in Dubai.