A significant new tourism development is taking shape along the Atlantic coast of The Gambia. Dietmar Gunz, best known as the founder of the former FTI Group, is returning to one of his long-favored destinations with an ambitious investment plan.
Through his role as chairman of Temple Tree Hospitality, Gunz is spearheading the development of a large-scale, integrated resort complex near Tanji, just south of the capital Banjul.
Dietmar Gunz: “A massive investment of almost 200 million US dollars is boosting The Gambia”
The project envisions a cluster of six distinct resorts catering to a range of travelers—from affordable accommodation to high-end luxury experiences. Altogether, the development is expected to include around 1,500 rooms, making it one of the most substantial tourism investments in the country to date.
With an estimated investment of roughly 200 million US dollars, the initiative is designed as a long-term, multi-phase project. The first sections could welcome guests by the end of 2027, with further expansion continuing step by step.
Once fully operational, the resorts could attract up to 200,000 visitors annually, significantly boosting the country’s tourism sector.
It would bring thousands of jobs in the tourism industry and also local farmers will have to deliver much more vegetables and fruits to the six new resorts of Dietmar Gunz.
More than just hotel beds and restaurant services
This is not just a hotel project—it’s a broader tourism ecosystem. Plans include leisure facilities and even residential elements, transforming the area into a fully integrated destination rather than a standalone resort.
The development is also expected to create jobs both during construction and later in daily operations, providing a meaningful economic contribution to the region.
Sustainability and local impact
A key pillar of the concept is sustainability. The developers aim to preserve the natural coastal environment while incorporating renewable energy and minimizing ecological impact.
Equally important is the involvement of local communities. The project intends to rely on local suppliers, create employment opportunities, and build skills within the region—ensuring that tourism growth directly benefits the population.
Temple Tree Hospitality … behind the project
Temple Tree Hospitality is backed by an international group of investors and industry experts, combining experience from the hotel, airline, and travel sectors. This network is expected to help position the development at an international standard while maintaining a strong local identity.
Temple Tree Hospitality is a subsidiary of the Dubai-based Temple Tree Investment Limited. The company is led by five founding partners: Dietmar Gunz, Ahmet Pandir (PMA Group), Özcan Toplar (Conti Resort Group, Istanbul Airlines), Tarek Musa (TK Group), and Alexei Boiko (ETS Group).”
A strategic move for the future of The Gambia
For Gunz, the initiative represents more than a business venture—it reflects a long-term commitment to shaping tourism in West Africa. The goal is to blend global quality standards with environmental responsibility and cultural authenticity.
With this project, The Gambia could take a major step toward becoming a year-round destination for international travelers—moving beyond its niche status and into the spotlight of global tourism.
