Kempinski Shekinah Palace: FCFA 220 Billion Luxury Project

D ouala is set to strengthen its position as a leading business and hospitality destination in Central Africa with the development of the Kempinski Shekinah Palace Douala-Bonanjo, an ambitious mixed-use complex promoted by Al Luxury Suites Group. The project re­ presents an investment estimated at nearly FCFA 220 billion, excluding off-site works. Developed on close to two hectares, its centerpiece will be a five-star hotel comprising 214 rooms and suites, complemented by 35 serviced apartments. The 27-sto­ rey tower, reaching approximately 100 metres, will provide panoramic views of Douala, including Mount Ca­ meroon from its rooftop bar. Facilities will include a conference capacity of up to 3,000 people, mul­ tipurpose meeting spaces, a 2,000- square-metre luxury shopping gal­ lery, a 500-square-metre art gallery, five restaurants, and five bars. Guests will also have access to a 2,000-square-metre fitness and wellness centre with a spa, gymna­ sium and therapeutic pool, two swimming pools, children’s facilities, tennis and padel courts, a 750- square-metre casino and a 500- square-metre nightclub, while par­ king will accommodate about 600 vehicles. The development also in­ cludes 17,000 square metres of Grade A office space, positioning the complex as a mixed-use business hub. The scale of the project is reflected in its financing structure. The total investment, including tax and cus­ toms incentives but excluding off- site infrastructure, is estimated at al­ most FCFA 220 billion. According to the project presentation, 55% of the financing will come from private equity contributions by sharehol­ ders, while the remaining 45% will b...