The G20 South Africa 2025 is on the anvil, and the Leaders’ Summit will convene from November 22-23 in Johannesburg, South Africa. This is the first time that the forum will meet on the African continent, focusing on the theme- Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability. Why it matters is the immense significance for global policy and how it offers a platform for the African continent’s voice. This will enable South Africa to set the agenda for global policy, keeping the broader Global South in the backdrop.
You should know that the G20 is representative of 80% of the global GDP and 2/3rds of the population. With the focus on enhancing collaboration between developing, developed and emerging economies, the decisions made in Johannesburg will shape global policymaking in a big way. Some of the key themes include financial regulations, climate action, economic stability, debt sustainability and global governance reforms.
South Africa’s agenda will include industrialisation, investment and trade, agricultural development and inclusivity. Being a part of this defining movement naturally means higher executive travel in Johannesburg. Are you also attending the G20 summit? You will naturally want the best diplomatic accommodation in South Africa for a comfortable stay. Here is a guide to not just secure accommodation for international delegates, but also everything else you need to know to make it a memorable trip.
South Africa Hosts the 2025 G20 Summit
You will be a part of a landmark moment when South Africa is finally hosting the G20 Summit. The G20 South Africa 2025 Summit offers the country a huge opportunity to shape a global agenda. The G20 will be a magnet for business tourism in South Africa, since it represents about 80% of global GDP and more than 75% of international trade, along with 2/3rds of the global population. The theme of Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability infuses a unique African perspective towards tackling global obstacles.
Along with an opportunity to showcase the professional hospitality of South Africa, the Summit offers an opportunity to coordinate policies and drive economic development in the region. World leaders will gather and collaborate to tackle key issues like climate change, health and sustainable development. South Africa, being the first African nation to host the G20, is strategically positioned to lead the development agenda of the African Union. Guided by the Ubuntu or I am because we are spirit, South Africa will focus on addressing inequality and enhancing economic conditions and job creation. Interestingly, South Africa has also focused on tapping vital minerals for inclusive future growth and development. This agenda may also have considerable global implications.
Strategic Preparedness and Infrastructure
South Africa is ready to host the burgeoning population of international delegates, with excellent infrastructure and amenities. There is a top-class business travel infrastructure in South Africa in place, including established international airports in Johannesburg, Cape Town International and the King Shaka International in Durban. The Johannesburg airport is the busiest in the entire continent, while the country has a well-linked regional and global air travel network. Cape Town and Durban also have well-established global ports, while the country has focused on infrastructure development with initiatives like the Development Policy Loan (World Bank-backed). There’s also a funding goal of $569 million to expand its airport capacity.
When it comes to executive travel in Johannesburg, there’s adequate infrastructure in place across the three global hubs of Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg. Business districts in these cities have the facilities to support delegates with a wide range of convention centres, offices, conferencing and corporate accommodation options. From serviced apartments Johannesburg tailored for delegates to exhibition centres, there’s everything necessary for events of this scale. The WTTC (World Travel & Tourism Council) has also highlighted how tourism contributed 8.2% to the South African GDP in 2023, with an increase to 8.8% in 2024 and projections of 10.4% by 2030. South Africa has also seen an increase of 5.1% in global visitors last year due to visa waivers and better air connectivity.
Accommodation for Delegates: Privacy, Comfort, and Convenience
Delegates attending the G20 Summit will naturally desire suitable accommodation. Their primary needs include higher privacy, security, dedicated workspaces, high-speed Wi-Fi and proximity to the event venues. You will find several serviced apartments in Johannesburg that offer reasonable rates for extended stays. It is possible to find self-catering apartments in Johannesburg in prime locations with 100% privacy and abundant space.
You may consider Sandton executive serviced apartments that offer cutting-edge security features, well-equipped kitchens, concierge services and more. In fact, along with serviced apartments in Sandton, there are options to book units in Rosebank too. You will also find the best serviced apartments in Cape Town, along with Bay Reflections Camps Bay luxury serviced apartments.
If you wish to stay in Durban, there are well-equipped and luxurious Durban self catering available, including options for both a long and short-term rentals in Durban. These units may also have on-site amenities like gym and pool access, elevators, laundry, housekeeping and much more. For the best diplomat accommodation in South Africa, you can reach out to TheSqua.re for its diplomat and embassy services. These will ensure a comfortable and seamless stay during the Summit.
Johannesburg: The Commercial Hub
There are several serviced apartments in Sandton that delegates may choose for a comfortable stay. From executive housing near Sandton to serviced apartments in Johannesburg for larger groups, there are plenty of choices available from reliable providers. Sandton and Rosebank are the major business centres in the city with plenty of cultural attractions on offer for visitors.
Sandton is the financial capital and Africa’s richest square mile, home to the financial district and Johannesburg Stock Exchange. It is home to several mega corporations, international companies and financial institutions, along with the Sandton Convention Centre. You will also discover the Sandton City Mall here, along with the dedicated Gautrain station.
Rosebank is situated just southwards of Sandton, housing office parks like Oxford Parks and other commercial buildings, along with the Rosebank Mall. There is no dearth of accommodation choices here, including pet-friendly serviced apartments Johannesburg for diplomats in case you are travelling with your furry friend. From families and corporates to smaller/bigger groups, there are units available with dedicated amenities.
The area is known for its restaurants, nightlife, art galleries and vibrant markets like the Rosebank African Craft Market. Delegates can explore the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton with its 6-metre-tall bronze statue and Constitution Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once a prison complex where Nelson Mandela was held. The Constitutional Court is another landmark worth exploring in Johannesburg.
Cape Town: Scenic and Historic Significance
Cape Town has no dearth of accommodation choices, including serviced apartments in Cape Town near V&A Waterfront and other spacious self-catering apartments Cape Town with ocean views. The city has immense historical and cultural significance, with landmarks like the beautiful Table Mountain that offers gorgeous views, and Robben Island. The latter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former prison that you can consider visiting. There is also the Cape Winelands, a region known for its picturesque landscapes.
You can book a long or short-term rental in Cape Town for embassy staff in the region near these landmarks. Another option is the Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, with stunning ocean views and rugged cliffs. Do not miss the Castle of Good Hope and the Slave Church Museum, which are other historic sites in the city.
Durban: Coastal Charm Meets Business Infrastructure
Another megacity for delegates in South Africa is Durban. You can book a long or short-term rental in Durban at reasonable rates. These Durban self-catering apartments self catering give you the chance to stay near major landmarks in the city. Some of them include the iconic Golden Mile beachfront promenade along the coastline, with its surfing and bodyboard lessons, stores and multiple bars and restaurants. You can also explore the Dairy, North and South beaches here to your heart’s content.
Another attraction is the uShaka Marine World, covering 15 hectares along the Golden Mile’s southern end. It is a famous theme park with attractions like Sea World, Village Walk, Wet ‘n Wild and multiple other experiences. Durban is also synonymous with vibrant markets like the Victoria Street Market (Indian spices, clothing, brassware, seafood), I Heart Market (artisanal and handmade products), The Shongweni Farmers & Craft Market (fresh produce and artisanal goods) and The Stables Lifestyle Market (crafts, live entertainment, food).
South Africa’s Business Travel Landscape
With growth in business tourism in South Africa, the entire landscape has changed significantly. It is driven by an R35 billion annual contribution from business tourism. At the same time, Johannesburg and Cape Town host about 45% of Africa’s global conferences. This is also visible through handsome growth in serviced apartments, which have expanded by 30% over the last five years.
Burgeoning business tourism, infrastructural growth and better air connectivity are key reasons why South Africa is more attractive for delegates. Cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban have positioned South Africa as a diverse and dynamic business hub, while offering a significant platform for addressing global development and economic issues. Cultural and natural diversity are other USPs, along with the best business facilities and an abundance of business accommodation choices.
TheSqua.re: Tailored Accommodation for Diplomats and Delegates
When it comes to finding tailored diplomat accommodation in South Africa, TheSqua.re is your best bet. You will find cutting-edge and effective TheSqua.re diplomat & embassy services, complete with embassy relocation services and all necessary assistance.
You will find fully-furnished and secure accommodation which is professionally managed and situated in proximity to G20 Summit venues. There is also concierge support and impeccable service, along with dedicated workspaces and all the other facilities you need. From a seamless online booking process and diverse configurations to prime locations and great amenities, these apartments offer everything delegates need for memorable stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of serviced apartments for business travel in South Africa?
Serviced apartments are ideal for business travel in South Africa. There are several dedicated units with workspaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, fully-equipped kitchens, a concierge and other business-friendly amenities.
How do serviced apartments compare to hotels?
Serviced apartments offer flexibility for extended stays (a week or more) and corporate/embassy relocations. At the same time, they offer more space and privacy than hotels, along with reasonable rates for extended trips. They are more cost-effective and come with self-catering facilities too.
Which South African cities offer a good range of serviced apartments?
You will find several serviced apartments in leading South African cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
Are serviced apartments secure for business travellers?
Serviced apartments are highly secure choices for business travellers, offering key card access, CCTV surveillance, security personnel and other features.
Can serviced apartments accommodate team travel?
Yes, serviced apartments come in bigger configurations, including two, three and four-bed units. This makes them ideal for team travel, with ample space for everyone.
When will be the G20 Summit take place in South Africa?
The G20 Summit will be held on November 22 and 23 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
What is the theme of the G20 Summit 2025 in South Africa?
The theme for the Summit is Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.
Conclusion: Diplomacy Meets Distinction
G20 South Africa 2025 is poised to be a watershed moment for the country, as it gears up to amplify the voice of the continent and shape global policy. The country has earned a reputation for hosting major global events with cultural heritage, sophistication and adequate comfort for delegates.
In fact, delegates can take advantage of the advanced infrastructure here, while getting access to the best serviced apartments in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. If you are a delegate, you can expect a comfortable time ahead with strategically located and spacious apartments near the event venues. At the same time, top-notch connectivity and infrastructure will come together to create a flawless experience.
