Category Archives: Hotels

In an exclusive interview with TravelTV Middle East, Saurabh Tiwari – Area Director Middle East & CIS, Taj Hotels part of IHCL  shared that there are two hotels in the pipeline for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. One will be in the cultural capital of Diriyah Gate in Riyadh with 200 rooms whilst the other will be in Mecca with an inventory of 350 rooms. ” Saudi Arabia is growing at a phenomenal pace—it’s already among the world’s top 20 economies and is well on its way to breaking into the top 10. With numerous giga projects underway and nearly a trillion-dollar economy, the momentum is unstoppable. The opportunities here are vast; it’s not just one runway, but six major runways of growth and potential. The future truly looks bright. As for Taj Hotels, we currently operate three exceptional properties in Dubai. Now that we’re well-established there and our growth in India has been remarkable, we’ve turned our attention to Saudi Arabia. We’ve already signed two hotels—one in the holy city of Mecca and another in Riyadh. We’re actively engaging with promising partners and like-minded investors who recognize the strength of our brand. And it’s not just about Taj—it’s also about the power of Brand India. There’s a strong Indian diaspora here in Riyadh, over 1.7 million people, not to mention the countless pilgrims from the subcontinent who visit Saudi Arabia. They know our brand, they trust it, and they connect with it. We’re confident that Taj will thrive in Saudi Arabia, and we’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead.”

In a strategic move to bring soulful, modern living to the forefront of Jeddah’s urban landscape, Baraka for Real Estate Development and Investment Company Ltd has signed a milestone agreement with global lifestyle hospitality operator Kerten Hospitality to launch The House Residence Al Salam District in Jeddah. The House Residence is set within Al Salam District, Baraka’s flagship mixed-use development spanning 45,000 square meters of land. With a diverse offering of 38 one-bedroom apartments, 58 two-bedroom apartments, and 17 three-bedroom villas, The House Residence Al Salam District delivers a new dimension of integrated living and immersive hospitality that blends contemporary design with local heritage. This marks a pivotal step in realising the company’s long-term vision of community-driven, culturally rich destinations that transform how people live, work, and connect. “At Baraka, our purpose is to shape urban spaces that are deeply human, where design meets purpose, and where community and culture define the experience,” said Ebrahim Alqassab, Projects Director at Baraka. “Al Salam District is not just a development; it is a statement of our belief in building vibrant, sustainable environments. The House Residence Al Salam District is a key expression of this vision and a major milestone in our journey toward redefining urban life in Saudi Arabia.” With a diverse offering of 38 one-bedroom apartments, 58 two-bedroom apartments, and 17 three-bedroom villas, The House Residence Al Salam District delivers a new dimension of integrated living and immersive hospitality that blends contemporary design with local heritage. The project reflects a shared philosophy between Baraka and Kerten Hospitality—one that values authenticity, lifestyle integration, and placemaking as central to hospitality. As a dynamic cultural centre, positioned to be the pulsating heart of Jeddah, Al …

Les Roches unveils its new Master of Science in International Hospitality Management to meet the global demand for highly qualified hospitality leaders. The program will be introduced across its international campuses in a phased rollout: September 2025 in Abu Dhabi, and March 2026 in Crans-Montana and Marbella offering students the chance to experience some of the world’s most dynamic hospitality and luxury tourism hubs. This new one-year full-time or 18-month part-time degree is designed for university graduates and career changers seeking leadership, operational, and strategic expertise to thrive in the ever-evolving hospitality industry. Combining the heritage of Swiss hospitality, experiential learning, and a global perspective, the program bridges the gap between academic rigor and industry demands, preparing students to become innovative leaders in hospitality and luxury tourism. This program launch comes at a pivotal moment for the industry. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR) reveals the Travel & Tourism sector is expected to create nearly 126 million new jobs within the next decade. That is one in three of all new jobs set to be created within the industry requiring an estimated 300,000 to 400,000 new managers by 2030, with 400 to 700 managerial positions added each year. “By aligning our curriculum with industry needs, we aim to prepare graduates to seamlessly integrate themselves into leadership roles, thereby addressing the pressing talent shortages and contributing to the industry’s sustainable growth” said, Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO Les Roches. “Les Roches’ commitment to academic excellence extends across its global network, bringing Swiss educational standards to diverse cultural and business landscapes. While deeply rooted in Swiss hospitality tradition, each campus integrates local expertise and …

Almosafer has announced a strategic partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. The agreement will expand Almosafer’s global hotel portfolio, giving travellers from Saudi Arabia and beyond direct access to over 9,300 Wyndham properties across 95 countries. This collaboration strengthens Almosafer’s mission to offer seamless travel experiences in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a premier global tourism hub. As part of the direct connectivity agreement, Almosafer will integrate Wyndham’s extensive portfolio of 25 iconic brands into its omni-channel platforms. This includes beloved names like Ramada, Days Inn, and La Quinta, offering travellers a diverse range of accommodations—from budget-friendly stays to upscale resorts. The partnership allows Almosafer’s customers to access real-time hotel inventory, competitive pricing, and streamlined booking through its digital platforms. With the largest and widest collection of hotel experiences in the world, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ mission of making hotel travel possible for all aligns with Almosafer’s aim to cater to the travel needs of people from Saudi Arabia and beyond as the Middle East’s leading travel brand. Muzzammil Ahussain, Chief Executive Officer of Almosafer, said: “Strategic partnerships and collaborations are key to our global reach and resilience. By integrating the offerings of the world’s largest hotel franchising company, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, to Almosafer’s omni-channel platform, we seek to enhance the travel experience for our customers. Hospitality brands are integral to the overall travel experience. Almosafer prides itself on offering a seamless booking process encompassing one-touch access to world-class hospitality and airlines, providing a comprehensive package to customers.” Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, said; “At Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, our mission goes beyond making travel possible for all—it’s about …

Fairmont Ramla Riyadh announces the launch of its new ultra-luxury penthouse collection, setting a bold new standard for elevated living in the Kingdom. Located on the 33rd and 34th floors, the Fairmont Royal Penthouse spanning the top floors of Riyadh’s first branded luxury serviced residences, these exclusive duplex penthouses offer sweeping city views, exceptional design, and world-class amenities tailored for those who expect nothing less than the extraordinary. The three newly introduced penthouses—Fairmont Privilege Penthouse, Fairmont Harmony Penthouse, and the crown jewel, the Fairmont Royal Penthouse—offer between 500 to 718 sqm of refined living space across two floors. Each residence features four master bedrooms with king-sized beds, six bathrooms, a private home theater, a state-of-the-art gym, a Jacuzzi, an executive office, a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious two-bedroom maid’s room, and expansive living and dining areas. Every detail has been carefully curated to provide seamless comfort and privacy in the heart of the capital. Located on the 33rd and 34th floors, the Fairmont Royal Penthouse epitomizes grandeur. This 718 sqm residence showcases expansive lounges adorned with hand-selected furnishings, a private outdoor swimming pool, multiple balconies with panoramic views, and a cinema room. A private elevator connects both floors, ensuring discretion and ease of access throughout the home. The experience is akin to a private villa suspended above Riyadh’s skyline. “Fairmont Ramla’s new penthouse collection is a statement of prestige and refinement,” says General Manager Muhieddine Zok. “It reflects the city’s growing appetite for uncompromising luxury and places Fairmont Ramla firmly at the top tier of serviced living in Riyadh.” Fairmont Ramla Riyadh remains the first branded luxury serviced residence in Saudi Arabia, ideally located with direct access to the King …

Hilton and WestF5 signed an agreement to launch DoubleTree by Hilton Residences, Dubai Jumeirah Garden City – a sophisticated new branded residential project. The signing ceremony took place at the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah ahead of the project’s upcoming launch later this month. The total project value is estimated at nearly AED 500 Million. WestF5 is a strategic alliance between the retail powerhouse West Zone Group and real estate investment and development leader Fortune 5. Together they bring decades of proven expertise across retail, hospitality, and property development, with a forward-looking vision to position the DoubleTree by Hilton Residences, Dubai Jumeirah Garden City as a landmark development in an emerging urban hub poised to redefine central Dubai living. By anchoring a globally recognized hospitality brand in one of the city’s most promising new localities, WestF5 is not just meeting demand for branded residences—it is actively shaping the evolution of community-centric urban living in the UAE. Strategically located behind Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah Garden City is rapidly transforming into one of Dubai’s most desirable residential communities. Positioned between the coastline and the city’s business core, the area offers unmatched convenience, with easy access to top destinations such as DIFC, Downtown Dubai, and Jumeirah Beach. As Dubai continues to attract investment across sectors, branded residential real estate remains a key growth driver, drawing new players and established names alike. By partnering with WestF5, Hilton gains a foothold in a high-potential urban enclave through a partner that brings unmatched retail connectivity, local market intelligence, and development agility. This partnership not only reinforces Hilton’s strategy to expand its branded residential footprint in fast-growing global cities but also ensures quality, consistency, and long-term brand …

Sumou Investment and Abu Dhabi Capital Group announced a major Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening regional cooperation in investment and development. The agreement marks the beginning of a strategic partnership designed to unlock high-impact opportunities across key sectors, including hospitality, real estate, and infrastructure. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to sustainable growth and economic diversification, aligning with long-term strategic visions in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE.  Both parties view this MOU as a pivotal step toward launching transformative projects that will enhance value creation and drive investment momentum across the Region. As part of the wider Abu Dhabi Capital Group ecosystem, STORY Hospitality — the Group’s hospitality arm — is expected to play a supporting role in hospitality-related initiatives arising from the partnership.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has entered into an exclusive development agreement with Le Park Concord Company to launch its iconic Super 8 by Wyndham brand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With plans to open 100 hotels over the next ten years, the agreement rein-forces Wyndham’s long-term commitment to quality, accessible and sustainable hospitality development in the region. The signing was executed with the active support of the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, further underlining the initiative’s alignment with the Kingdom’s national tourism goals. Le Park Concord is a leading Saudi hotel operator and developer, currently managing over 900 rooms across 13 properties with an additional 13 hotels under development, expected to add more than 2,000 rooms to the company’s growing portfolio. “Bringing Super 8 to Saudi Arabia is a strategic move to make quality, affordable travel more accessible. As tourism accelerates and millions of travellers visit the country each year, the demand for dependable, budget-friendly accommodation continues to grow, whether you are travelling for business or leisure. Our collaboration with Le Park Concord allows us to meet that need by introducing a trusted brand in key cities and along major highways. We’re excited to bring Super 8’s signature blend of affordability, stylish comfort, and sustainable modern design to one of the region’s most dynamic markets.” – Dimitris Manikis, President, EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts As Saudi Arabia undergoes rapid transformation under Vision 2030, Wyndham and Le Park Concord are set to meet the rising demand for quality, affordable lodging among both international visitors and a growing domestic traveller base. In 2024 alone, the Kingdom welcomed 30 million international tourists, a 9.5 percent increase from the previous year, and …

In partnership with Wataniah Business Group, Sophos Hotels SA is set to manage a Le Meridien in Tabuk, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s evolving hospitality landscape. With construction already advancing, the hotel is moving ahead and foreseen to open its doors Q1 2026. Sophos have signed this agreement to operate a property that is strategically located at a crucial commercial and logistical hub, bordering Jordan, the Red Sea, and other emerging regions across Saudi Arabia. Le Meridien Tabuk is ideally positioned near the commercial district, shopping areas, and key transportation routes for effortless connectivity. Offering an exceptional business or leisure retreat with world-class comfort and service. The hotel will redefine opulence in Tabuk, ensuring an exclusive, serene, and one-of-a-kind experience for its clients. The hotel will offer 151 contemporary rooms and suites, each outfitted with cutting- edge technology and designed for optimal functionality. Elevating the guest experience further, the property will also feature an expansive presidential suite on its own exclusive floor, boasting sweeping panoramic views of the city. Le Meridien Tabuk will offer a culinary journey with specialty restaurants led by renowned chefs. In addition, a premier spa and wellness center will enhance the experience by providing rejuvenating and relaxing treatments within an environment of exceptional comfort. Christian Michel, Chief Executive Officer, Sophos Hotels SA, said: ” We are honored to partner with Wataniah in bringing this landmark hotel to a city that is rapidly evolving into a vibrant hub of innovation and opportunity. This project reflects our shared vision to contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, supporting the Kingdom’s transformative growth in hospitality and tourism. Through our partnership, we aim to uplift standards for …

The Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia 2025 officially opened under the theme “Where Vision Shapes Opportunity,” FHS Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s most influential hospitality investment conference, bringing together hospitality leaders, investors and decision-makers to discuss hotel performance and development, the outlook for hospitality investment in the Kingdom and the key market trends driving the sector. The official opening remarks were delivered this morning by His Highness Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid Al Saud, Secretary General, King Faisal Foundation (KFF) and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Al Khozama Investment Company. “Hospitality in Saudi Arabia is no longer just about infrastructure or service – it’s about identity, culture, talent, and future leadership. It is about creating opportunities for the people of this country to tell their story, and to shape the experience of those who come to discover it.” HH Prince Bandar bin Saud bin Khalid, Secretary General, King Faisal Foundation. The address was delivered in the distinguished presence of Mahmoud Abdulhadi, Deputy minister of tourism for destination enablement, Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, who also took to the stage to discuss “Where Vision Shapes Opportunity”. The FHS Saudi Arabia program, which covers everything from start-ups to staffing and innovation to investment over three days, features 150+ speakers across 80 sessions in 18 different content tracks, covering key themes including Investment, Financing & Real Estate, Destination Development, Technology & Innovation, Sustainability & ESG, and Luxury, F&B and Experiential Hospitality. Jonathan Worsley, Chairman of The Bench, organizer of FHS Saudi Arabia, said: “We are delighted to be back at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, thanks to our host sponsor Al Khozama Investment and look forward to a very …