Guyana's booming economy, propelled by its offshore energy sector, is attracting significant investment in its hospitality industry. A notable development is the recent inauguration of the Courtyard by Marriott at Cheddi Jagan International Airport. This marks Marriott's second property in the nation, reinforcing the confidence of international brands in Guyana's vibrant growth. The new hotel is set to enhance the travel experience for a diverse clientele, from airline personnel to business visitors, while also creating numerous local employment opportunities.
Guyana's Hospitality Scene Welcomes New Courtyard by Marriott Near International Airport
On August 28, 2025, a significant milestone was reached in Guyana's hospitality sector with the grand opening of the Courtyard by Marriott at Cheddi Jagan International Airport. This impressive US$20 million project, strategically located in Timehri, offers unparalleled convenience for travelers, being within easy walking distance of the international terminal. The new establishment, a striking six-story edifice, boasts 150 meticulously designed rooms, including five luxurious executive suites, catering to a wide spectrum of guests, including flight crews, diplomatic personnel, business travelers, and those in transit.
This venture not only elevates the standard of accommodations in the region but also serves as a powerful catalyst for local economic development. The hotel has generated nearly a hundred new jobs, with an impressive 99% of its workforce comprising Guyanese nationals, reflecting a strong commitment to local empowerment. Cardinal Investments Inc, a local construction firm, was responsible for the development of this state-of-the-art property on 2.5 acres of government-leased land. Mr. Roy Bassoo Snr, Managing Director of Cardinal Investments Inc, whose family has a deep-rooted history in Guyana's hospitality industry, emphasized that this opening signifies long-term confidence in the country's future. Furthermore, Mr. Bassoo revealed ambitious plans for an additional 130-room Staybridge Suites Hotel, slated for development along the Heroes Highway in 2026. The Courtyard by Marriott joins the distinguished Guyana Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, which commenced operations in 2015, further cementing Marriott's robust presence in the South American nation. The Courtyard brand has emerged as one of Marriott's fastest-expanding portfolios across the Caribbean in recent years, a testament to its successful model and strategic expansion efforts. This latest opening is a clear indicator of Guyana's remarkable economic upswing, which continues to drive substantial hotel investments and an increase in air travel, firmly establishing Guyana as a rapidly ascending force in the Caribbean's hospitality landscape.
The inauguration of this new Marriott property in Guyana serves as a powerful reminder of how strategic investments, coupled with a robust economic environment, can catalyze significant growth and transform a region's tourism and business infrastructure. It underscores the potential for developing nations to attract global brands and enhance their service offerings, ultimately benefiting both visitors and local communities. This expansion also highlights the dynamic nature of the global hospitality industry, constantly seeking new frontiers and opportunities for development.