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Johannesburg set to welcome a R750 million conference centre and hotel in 2028

The city’s hospitality sector is set for a major boost with a new luxury development designed to bring comfort, convenience, and world-class conferencing.

Poelano Malema
Written by
Poelano Malema
City Writer, Time Out South Africa
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DragonImages iStock | Opened door of hotel room with key in the lock
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Johannesburg is already home to some of the best hotels and conference centres in South Africa, and its offering is about to grow even further.

A new R750 million conference centre and hotel development has been announced, marking a significant expansion in the city’s hospitality and business tourism sector.

The announcement was made by Century City Hotels, a brand that has built a strong reputation over the past ten years. Its portfolio includes properties such as Bridgewater and Urban Square Hotels, as well as a range of luxury apartments. 

The new development forms part of the company’s expanding portfolio. It announced the establishment of the African Rain Collection - a new hospitality portfolio created to carry forward the legacy established in Cape Town while supporting the group’s operations in Gauteng. The upcoming property, named the Waterfront City Conference Centre and Hotel, is expected to offer modern facilities tailored for both business and leisure travellers. The development is also a strategic collaboration between Attacq Limited and Rabie Property Group, and will sit under the new portfolio.

”The launch of African Rain Collection marks a natural evolution of what we have been building over the past decade. It reflects a deliberate shift from operating a single destination to stewarding a broader hospitality portfolio grounded in long-term thinking and disciplined execution. Waterfall City Conference Centre and Hotel allows us to extend that approach into Johannesburg while maintaining the standards, culture, and accountability that define our work. Our focus is not growth for growth’s sake, but thoughtful expansion where we can create real value for our clients, partners, and the precincts we operate in,” says Gary Koetser, Chief Executive Officer of African Rain Collection.

Set to open in 2028, the hotel and conference centre will be strategically located within the Waterfall precinct, next to Mall of Africa - one of the largest shopping malls on the continent. 

What the facility will feature 

According to the City Conference Centre website, the facility can accommodate up to 1,350 delegates in a single venue and up to 2,000 across 16 flexible event spaces. It will also be complemented by open-air venues, ideal for hosting outdoor events. The adjoining hotel will feature 180 rooms and apartments, offering a blend of comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travellers. 

Dining will be taken care of with an all-day restaurant, while private dining spaces will also be available for more intimate experiences. Guests will have access to a fully equipped indoor gym, a spa offering massage treatments, and a swimming pool, ensuring a well-rounded stay focused on both relaxation and wellness. 

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