Millat Group Makes History as First South African Private Equity Company on WTTC Executive Committee
South Africa has taken its place on the global tourism stage, with Millat Group becoming
the first homegrown private equity company to be appointed to the Executive
Committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) — the highest governing body
of the world’s private sector travel and tourism leaders.
Founded and led by entrepreneur Hamza Farooqui, Millat is a private equity-styled travel
and leisure group that has reshaped South Africa’s hospitality landscape. The Group is
best known for bringing back the Hyatt hotel brand, now the largest Hyatt operator in
Africa with properties including Hyatt Regency Cape Town, Hyatt House Sandton, Hyatt
House Rosebank, and the recently opened Park Hyatt Johannesburg.
“This is a proud moment for South Africa and Africa,” said Farooqui. “For the first time, our
country has a direct voice on the WTTC Executive Committee. We see this not only as
recognition of Millat’s journey, but as an opportunity to fly the South African and African
flag high, showcase our country’s and continent’s enormous tourism potential, and
attract greater institutional capital to unlock growth and jobs across the continent. Our
message to the world is clear: South Africa and Africa is open for investment, open for
travel, and open for business.”
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are delighted to welcome Millat Group
as the first South African member of our Executive Committee. Their leadership in
bringing global hospitality brands to South Africa and championing investment in the
sector will bring invaluable perspectives to the Council’s work.”
By joining the WTTC Executive Committee, Millat Group will ensure South Africa’s voice
is heard at the highest levels of the global tourism industry, shaping initiatives on
sustainability, investment, and regional growth while highlighting Africa as one of the
most dynamic and exciting tourism frontiers.
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