FHS Africa logo featuring an abstract orange outline of the African continent with the text “FHS Africa” and “AHIF - Africa Hospitality Investment Forum.”

AHIF Rebrands as FHS Africa to Attract Global Tourism Investors

The Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF), Africa’s leading tourism investment conference, is rebranding as Future Hospitality Summit Africa (FHS Africa).

This strategic shift brings AHIF under the umbrella of The Bench’s flagship Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) brand, aligning it with FHS Saudi Arabia and FHS World in Dubai.

The move reflects a growing demand for hospitality investment across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) and positions Africa’s tourism sector on a larger global stage.

For over a decade, AHIF has been instrumental in shaping Africa’s hospitality industry, facilitating high-value investments and partnerships between global investors, government leaders, and hotel developers. The conference has catalyzed billions of dollars in deals, supporting infrastructure projects and tourism growth across the continent. At AHIF 2024, more than $365 million in agreements were signed, reinforcing Africa’s appeal as a prime destination for investment.

Set to take place from 17-19 June 2025 in Cape Town, FHS Africa will provide a highly curated environment where investors, developers, and industry leaders will engage in forward-looking discussions tailored to the region’s opportunities and challenges. Key themes for 2025 will include:

  • Financing Models: Structuring investments to drive sustainable growth in Africa’s evolving markets.
  • Sustainable Investment & ESG: Making environmental and social governance a profitable venture rather than a cost.
  • Cross-Border Collaboration: Exploring policies and infrastructure advancements that can boost intra-African trade and tourism.
  • Branded Residences & Mixed-Use Developments: Understanding the rise of alternative asset classes in hospitality.
  • Technology & Innovation: The role of AI, blockchain, and digital transformation in African hospitality.

While FHS Africa remains, the leading event dedicated to Africa’s hospitality sector, its integration into the FHS ecosystem ensures that African stakeholders benefit from increased exposure at FHS World – the largest hospitality investment gathering in the region. This closer connection allows African markets to be positioned within a broader investment context, attracting more international capital, expertise, and strategic collaboration.

With its status as a global hub, Dubai serves as the operational headquarters for many international corporations, including The Bench, and plays a pivotal role in fostering investment into African markets. The city offers over 50 daily flights to major African destinations, enhancing accessibility for investors and business leaders alike. Dubai’s position as a financial and innovation hub makes it an ideal launchpad for deeper engagement with Africa’s growing tourism economy.

The FHS portfolio unites the hospitality sector’s most influential meetings under one roof. By consolidating its flagship events, The Bench enhances the industry’s ability to connect major stakeholders, drive investment, and foster cross-market collaboration. The presence of the world’s leading hotel groups, investment firms, and policymakers at all FHS events underscores its role as the premier hospitality investment network in the region.

“This transformation marks a pivotal moment for The Bench and the African hospitality sector,” said Matthew Weihs, Managing Director of The Bench. “With Africa’s investment potential gaining global attention, FHS Africa will provide a focused, high-impact platform, while FHS World ensures that African markets are showcased on the biggest investment stage. The synergy between these events will accelerate deal-making, policy engagement, and long-term industry growth.

He concluded: “With the launch of FHS Africa in 2025, The Bench is reaffirming its commitment to shaping Africa’s hospitality future through knowledge-sharing, investment facilitation, and strategic partnerships. As the industry continues to evolve, this rebranding ensures that stakeholders receive a more structured, globally integrated experience—designed to unlock Africa’s full potential as the next major frontier for hospitality investment.”

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