Serbia is subsidising three large hotel projects from global brands
State subsidies are encouraging the construction of the Swissotel in Belgrade, the Crowne Plaza in Zlatibor, and the Holiday Inn in Novi Pazar. All of this is part of an investment cycle worth more than 139 million euros.
The regional hotel market is gaining strong momentum thanks to a new package of state incentives in Serbia. The Ministry of Tourism and Youth has approved €10 million in subsidies for the implementation of three major projects. These projects are bringing to the local market renowned franchise groups Accor and IHG Hotels & Resorts. Furthermore, this strategy, implemented through a public call for the improvement of hotel accommodation, directly targets the strengthening of infrastructure for business, congress, and family tourism.
The total value of these investments amounts to €139 million, and they will be realised by local investors in cooperation with global hotel chains. Apart from raising accommodation standards, the projects will also have a strong macroeconomic impact. Namely, upon their completion, around 500 new jobs are planned to be created.
Focus on EXPO 2027 and the dispersion of tourist traffic
The greatest focus of the business community is certainly directed towards the capital. There, the company Euro KB Rent, under the leadership of Zoran Kostić, is embarking on the realization of the Swissotel Belgrade project. This facility will be positioned within the EXPO 2027 complex in Surčin. Furthermore, it will play a key role in accommodating participants and visitors during this major world event. The entry of a premium brand like Swissotel into the EXPO zone clearly demonstrates Belgrade's intention. The city aims to position itself long-term as a regional centre for the MICE industry.
On the other hand, the state's strategy also includes the dispersion of luxury accommodation outside the capital. ZlatiborAs one of the most visited mountain destinations in the region, Kopaonik is set to gain a Crowne Plaza hotel. The investment is being led by Zoran Mitrović's company, Luss Leisure. The arrival of this brand will further boost the mountain's congress tourism capacity. At the same time, Sandžak will gain its first major international brand. Doha Invest, a company backed by Denis Hadžibulić, will build a Holiday Inn hotel in Novi Pazar. This opens up a whole new perspective for the development of business and transit tourism in that part of the country.
For the hotel industry in the region, these projects mean increased competition. At the same time, they are also a clear signal to investors that the state is actively participating in capital projects that enhance the value of the destination.
Source: Ekapija.rs
