Kigali’s Master Plan has strategically designated zones that are suitable for hotel development. These zoning categories are essential for guiding urban growth, ensuring that commercial and hospitality developments are placed in optimal locations that enhance the city’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Here’s a comprehensive look at the zones that allow hotel development:
- C1 – The Mixed-Use Zone
The Mixed-Use Zone (C1) is designed to offer high flexibility by combining commercial activities with residential and office spaces. This zone aims to create vibrant areas where people can live, work, and engage in commercial activities. Hotels are conditionally permitted in this zone, contributing to the dynamic urban environment by providing accommodation options close to commercial hubs.
- Neighborhood Commercial Zone Overlay (O-C2)
The O-C2 zone overlays residential areas and is intended to support compact, active mixed-use developments. Positioned along minor arterial and collector roads, this zone allows for the integration of hotels within residential neighborhoods, providing local communities with convenient access to hospitality services without disrupting the residential character.
- City Commercial Zone (C3)
The City Commercial Zone (C3) serves the broader community’s retail, commercial, and service needs. It also includes space for offices and entertainment activities. With a minimum lot size requirement of 1,000 m², this zone supports well-designed commercial buildings. Hotels are conditionally allowed here, making it ideal for larger, more comprehensive hospitality developments.
- Sports and Eco-Tourism Zone (P2)
The P2 zone is dedicated to parks and eco-tourism, offering spaces for recreational and sporting activities. It is also home to cultural facilities like museums and concert halls. While preserving its green and recreational character, this zone permits the development of structures, including hotels, that adhere to the “Green Building Minimum Compliance Guidelines.” This ensures that hotel developments contribute to the zone’s sustainable ethos.
- National Parks Zone (P3-A)
The P3-A zone is focused on protecting national parks within Kigali, promoting sustainability, health, and community well-being. This zone supports eco-tourism activities and allows for the development of eco-lodges and hotels. These structures are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, providing unique hospitality experiences while preserving biodiversity.