Minor Hotels has signed a joint venture agreement with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises to develop and operate up to 50 hotels in Egypt over the next decade.
The partnership was formalized in October 2025 at a signing ceremony attended by H.E. Prime Minister of Egypt Mostafa Madbouly and H.E. Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi, underscoring its importance to the country’s tourism strategy.
The agreement marks a significant expansion for Minor Hotels in North Africa and strengthens Egypt’s growing position as a leading global tourism destination. Under the venture, Minor Hotels will take on the management of seven projects, including operational properties, brownfield conversions, and new developments, with further projects to follow across both leisure and urban locations.
The new company aims to introduce a diversified hospitality portfolio across Egypt, including properties in West Cairo, Azha Ras El Hekma on the North Coast, and Azha Ain Al Sokhna. A highlight will be the entry of Minor Hotels’ flagship luxury brand, Anantara Hotels & Resorts, bringing new high-end accommodation options to Egypt. The expansion will also extend Minor Hotels’ experience in managing resorts and branded residences into the Egyptian market, where demand for upscale hospitality continues to grow.
The joint venture includes a focus on Nile cruise operations, with Minor Hotels bringing its expertise in river cruises from Asia, such as Mekong Kingdom and Loy Pela, to Egypt’s key tourism hubs of Aswan and Luxor. The addition of luxury cruise offerings is expected to reinforce Egypt’s appeal as a destination that combines cultural heritage with modern hospitality experiences.
William E. Heinecke, Chairman & Founder of Minor International, parent company of Minor Hotels, emphasized the long-term vision of the collaboration. “Signing this joint venture with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises is an important milestone as we bring Minor Hotels’ brands and hospitality expertise to Egypt, one of the world’s most storied and inspiring destinations. Together, we are charting a long-term vision that combines SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises’ deep local knowledge with our global reach to deliver exceptional luxury and lifestyle experiences across Egypt’s leading destinations,” said William E. Heinecke, Chairman & Founder of Minor International.
The agreement comes at a time of strong growth in Egypt’s tourism sector, which has benefited from new investments and rising international arrivals. According to officials, the collaboration directly supports Egypt’s Vision 2030, the government’s long-term strategy to enhance economic growth, create employment opportunities, and elevate the country’s global standing as a premier travel destination.
Hossam El Shaer, Chairman of SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises and Madaar Developments, highlighted the importance of the venture for Egypt’s hotel industry. “Egypt’s tourism sector is experiencing remarkable growth, fueled by increased investment and growing global interest. We are proud to be part of a collaboration that reflects our shared vision to elevate the country’s hotel and tourism industry. Since founding SUNRISE in 2002 we’ve focused on creating integrated, sustainable destinations that meet the highest international standards. This Partnership signals strong global confidence in Egypt’s economy and directly supports the goals of Egypt’s Vision 2030,” said Hossam El Shaer, Chairman of SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises and Madaar Developments.
Minor Hotels currently operates more than 540 properties across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Its portfolio spans brands including Anantara, Avani, Tivoli, Oaks, NH Hotels, and Elewana Collection. The partnership with SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises, which manages a portfolio of established resorts and cruise operations in Egypt, is expected to leverage both companies’ strengths to accelerate growth in the region.
With the joint venture targeting 50 hotels over 10 years, the plan will significantly expand Egypt’s hospitality landscape, creating new opportunities for investment, employment, and tourism diversification. The integration of global hospitality standards with locally rooted expertise is intended to deliver experiences that align with the evolving expectations of international and domestic travelers.
The collaboration between Minor Hotels and SUNRISE Resorts & Cruises positions Egypt for sustained growth in its tourism infrastructure, while introducing internationally recognized brands and services. As the country continues to attract rising visitor numbers, the joint venture is expected to play a central role in shaping the future of hospitality across Egypt’s leading destinations.
