Guyana’s hospitality industry received a boost on January 10 with the opening of a new AC Marriott Hotel near the Eugene F Correia International Airport in Ogle.

The hotel features 150 rooms, as well as conference and meeting facilities. It marks the first phase of a two-part development.

Speaking at the launch, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali said the opening represents investor confidence in Guyana’s rapidly growing economy. He also praised the developers for moving ahead with the second phase of the project without delay.

“Normally, when someone launches the first phase of a project, they wait to see if returns will come before launching the second phase. But this demonstrates confidence in our economy,” Ali said.

The president noted that the hotel opens at a time when the government is focused on modernising the country, expanding infrastructure and building a more diversified economy. He said tourism is one of the sectors the government aims to develop into a major growth area.

Ali highlighted that Guyana has already seen strong momentum, with significant growth in air travel and connectivity at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport over the past four years.

He assured hotel developers and tourism stakeholders that the government will continue to work closely with the sector to support sustainable growth.

“You are with a government that will sit with all the hotels, resorts and tourism outlets to develop a joint strategy, not only in marketing, but in targeting,” Ali said.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of the AC Marriott hotel investment group, John Aboud, said the hotel will employ approximately 250 people, with 98 per cent of positions filled by Guyanese nationals.

He added that construction on the second phase of the development is expected to begin shortly and be completed within two years. Once finished, the expanded project will cover 80,000 square feet and include a lifestyle centre and 24 luxury residential units.

The overall investment is projected to reach approximately US$200 million upon completion.

“This investment will stand as a testament to the serenity of the rhythm of the water, and the relationship between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago,” Aboud said.