Marriott International and Diriyah Gate Development Authority sign agreement for luxury hotels

Marriott International, Inc. signed an agreement with Diriyah Gate Development Authority to open two luxury hotels as part of the Diriyah Project in Saudi Arabia. Located in Diriyah around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, the properties will bring modern and distinct views on luxury to the historic town of Diriyah, set to become one of the world’s most forthright cultural and heritage cities. “We are delighted to be working with the Diriyah Gate Development Authority and look forward to elevating the luxury experience of the Diriyah Project with these two iconic and celebrated brands,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.

The Ritz-Carlton, Diriyah, Riyadh – Renowned for its legendary service and refined design, the iconic Ritz-Carlton brand is the epitome of modern luxury. Slated to open in 2025, The Ritz-Carlton, Diriyah, Riyadh is expected to feature 195 guestrooms including 34 suites along with a specialty restaurant, an all-day dining venue, meeting rooms, an outdoor pool and fitness center. Ritz Kids, the brand’s signature kids club and programming is part of the vision, as is a signature spa and immersive guest programs.

The Luxury Collection in Diriyah, Riyadh – The Luxury Collection offers global travelers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations, with each hotel serving as a unique and cherished expression of its location. Situated in the district of Samhan, the hotel is expected to welcome its first guests in 2022 with 141 guestrooms, including 27 suites. Design plans are slated to feature two signature restaurants, an all-day-dining restaurant, coffee and juice bar, fitness center, pool and spa. The property is also expected to offer meeting and event facilities.

Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of DGDA stated, “Bringing The Ritz-Carlton and The Luxury Collection to the development, two well established and admired world class heritage brands, which are renowned around the world, is a momentous moment for Diriyah. Each property will give travelers a unique perspective on Saudi Arabia’s rich past before immersing guests in the future of the destination.”

Diriyah is set to become Saudi Arabia’s foremost historic cultural destination. The new hub will see eleven square kilometers of the historic town of Diriyah, known as ‘the Jewel of the Kingdom’, transformed into a global tourism destination with its main anchors rooted in its historic culture and heritage. Created in the style of Najdi architecture, an authentic Saudi Arabian building style, guests will be instantly transported to centuries past when the Arabian Peninsula was born. The landmark destination is expected to include a variety of cultural institutions and museums, galleries, local and international restaurants, luxury retail experiences, public squares, hotels, multiple recreational spaces, residences, educational institutions and offices.