Category Archives: Hotels

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 …

Marriott International signed an agreement with Miyar Alshati Real Estate Company (managed by Miyar Capital), Telal Al Wadi Real Estate Company and Saud Al Arifi Investment Group to introduce the iconic St. Regis brand to Jeddah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Anticipated to open in 2030, the project features a luxury hotel and residences that will bring St. Regis’ celebrated rituals, bespoke spirit, storied heritage, and signature Butler service to the coastal city. “The signing of The St. Regis Jeddah reflects our commitment to expand our portfolio of brands and experiences in the Kingdom,” said Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa. “Jeddah continues to be an important business and leisure destination in the region, and a gateway to Makkah and Medina. We look forward to offering locals and travellers to the city the St. Regis’ legendary service, modern glamour and distinctive luxury experiences.” The St. Regis Jeddah is expected to feature 191 elegantly appointed guestrooms, suites and serviced apartments with sea views, five distinct dining venues including a signature restaurant and pool lounge. The hotel is anticipated to include a range of facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre and spa, along with more than 1,000 square metres of meetings and events space for celebrations and iconic gatherings. The project is also expected to include The Residences at The St. Regis Jeddah, which will feature 92 one-to-five-bedroom branded residences and offer luxury amenities such as a resident lounge, media room, children’s activity area, meeting rooms, library, fitness centre and a swimming pool. In a joint statement, Tilal Al Wadi Real Estate Company, Miyar Capital and Saud Alarife Group stated, “We are proud to …

A new research report by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts reveals that Saudi Arabia’s Generation Z is driving the country’s tourism landscape—fueling a surge in domestic travel rooted in cultural exploration, digital engagement, and sustainability. Conducted in partnership with YouGov, the study shows that over half (54%) of Gen Z Saudis have taken a domestic leisure trip in the past six months, with 29% of respondents planning to continue travelling locally in the future. The emerging trends from the research underscore how travel has become a meaningful part of everyday life for young Saudis, not a luxury, but a lifestyle, a result which is driven by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals to increase domestic tourism to 55 million trips annually by 2030 and raise tourism’s GDP contribution to 10%. “What we’re witnessing is a generational shift,” said Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Gen Z travellers in Saudi Arabia are increasingly choosing to explore their own backyard, not just out of convenience, but because they’re proud of what the Kingdom has to offer. They’re driven by a desire to connect with local culture, contribute to the economy, and travel more sustainably. At Wyndham, we’re proud to support this transformation by offering stays that meet their expectations for value, comfort, and digital ease, while helping them engage more deeply with Saudi Arabia’s nature, heritage, and communities.”

Earth Hotels announced that Earth Hotel and Living Jeddah Waterfront will be launched in Q3 2027. Positioned on a prime waterfront plot set to create Jeddah’s first integrated urban community by the sea. The property will offer a unique hybrid hospitality and entertainment experience with a place to stay, live, dine and entertain. Its design shall be inspired by the hertiage architecture of the region with a modern take- housing 110 hotel rooms and 179 fully serviced “Earth living” apartments. Earth Jeddah is designed to bring together travelers and locals in spaces that inspire connection and wellbeing. Earth Jeddah will feature co-working zones, event and social spaces , a retail component accessible from the waterfront corniche. Guests can recharge in an expansive wellbeing and longjevity hub offering cryotherapy, float therapy, and high-performance training zones to name a few. It’s bold, it’s purposeful, and it’s built for those who want more than just a place to stay. Alan Honein, Founder & Chief Executive Citizen at Earth Hotels, said: “Our vision for Earth Hotels has always been about creating experiences that are design-led, community-first, and deeply connected to their environment. With the expansion into Riyadh and Jeddah, we’re bringing our DNA to destinations that are dynamic, youthful, and on the rise, and we’re proud to be part of this cultural moment.” Rami Moukarzel, Co-founder & Managing Partner, added: “Earth Hotels is more than a place to rest your head. We’re building experiential hubs where people live, work, play, and grow. The energy, innovation and creativity across Saudi Arabia right now is unmatched, and with Earth Riyadh and Earth Jeddah we seek out those tribes to call our spaces home for a day, month …

Taiba Investments launched the new identity of its home-grown hospitality brand, Makarem. It unveils its new identity under the theme “Journey to the Origins”, with a forward-looking vision that aligns with the evolving expectations of pilgrims and visitors to Makkah and Madinah. Makarem’s new identity reflects its commitment to providing an integrated hospitality experience that enhances the spiritual journey of pilgrims and Umrah performers, with a focus on authenticity, innovation, and human touch, in alignment with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy, promote religious and cultural tourism, and build a vibrant society. Makarem has defined a comprehensive strategic framework for launching its new identity, including strengthening its presence, expanding investment partnerships, and participating in major events inside and outside the Kingdom. The Makarem service experience will be highlighted by emphasising its quality service, attention to detail, and close connection to Islamic values and local heritage. The Kingdom aims to accommodate more than 150 million tourists annually by 2030, making the launch of Makarem’s new identity at this time a strategic step that opens up broad horizons for growth and expansion. The launch of Makarem’s new identity is part of Taiba Investment’s growth and expansion strategy, which aims to contribute to achieving the goals of the National Tourism Strategy, which targets welcoming more than 150 million tourists annually by 2030. Sultan bin Badr Al Otaibi, CEO of Taiba Investment, said: “The new identity goes beyond the visual aspect to encompass a comprehensive operational philosophy that includes developing the culture of hospitality, innovative services, and raising quality standards, in addition to utilising the latest hospitality technologies such as AI to uplift our guests’ experience”. Launching the new identity marks a new …

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts will be opening three properties in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – Fairmont Red Sea opening end of 2025, Fairmont Ajdan Al Khobar in 2027 and Fairmont Rua Madinah in 2028, total of 616 keys by 2030. Aligned with the Kingdom’s Saudi Vision 2030, this signifies a new stronghold in the Kingdom and bolsters the brand’s record-breaking pipeline. Maarten Den Nieuwenhuijsen, Senior Vice President Openings and Guest Experience, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts commented: “At Fairmont, we pursue growth with intention, selecting destinations that reflect our commitment to timeless hospitality and cultural resonance. Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s most dynamic tourist destinations, offering untold opportunities for growth, and we are proud to play a role in shaping its hospitality landscape. I am confident that our upcoming openings will not only contribute to the Kingdom’s luxury hospitality offering but also foster meaningful connections with guests and communities. These projects are a testament to the strength of our development pipeline and our long-term commitment to the region.” Fairmont The Red Sea – Each property will represent Fairmont’s dedication to transformative accommodation and celebration of heritage. Fairmont The Red Sea, positioned in the Kingdom’s groundbreaking Red Sea Project—one of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects—is set to redefine the relationship between luxury tourism and the natural world. Once opened, the property will feature 193 rooms, six distinct dining concepts, including an overwater restaurant with views of the Red Sea and the mangroves, teens centre, kids’ clubs, and a spa. The resort will be situated next to an 18-hole championship golf course, reflecting Fairmont’s association as a world-class golf operator. It will set new standards in sustainable development, positioned …

Hospitality Management Holdings (HMH) announced a major expansion in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) with the addition of new properties and ambitious development plans aimed at supporting the country’s growing tourism sector. As part of its strategic growth initiative, HMH has signed an agreement to operate the Corp Al Khobar Corniche Hotel, a 157-room property overlooking the Khobar waterfront in the Eastern Province and a memorandum of understanding for a new Dammam hotel development. The hotel, previously under Accor’s Mercure brand, will now join HMH’s expanding portfolio, further strengthening the company’s footprint in Saudi Arabia. This milestone comes as HMH prepares to open its flagship 460-room hotel in Makkah by mid-2025. Set to begin operations after the Hajj season, the Makkah property is expected to serve as a cornerstone in HMH’s faith-based tourism offerings, catering to the millions of pilgrims who travel to the holy city annually. Additional developments are also underway across the Kingdom, reinforcing HMH’s commitment to meeting the surging demand for quality hospitality solutions. Mr. Haytham Abdelaziz, Chief Operating Officer of HMH, emphasized the strategic significance of Saudi Arabia in the group’s expansion roadmap: “Saudi Arabia is a strategic priority for HMH, fully aligned with Vision 2030’s transformative tourism goals and the rising demand for premium accommodation. The Al Khobar property strengthens our presence in the Eastern Province, while our forthcoming Makkah hotel will place us at the heart of religious tourism. With over 6,000 rooms currently operational or in development across the region, we remain deeply committed to supporting the Kingdom’s target of attracting 150 million annual visitors by 2030.” The Corp Al Khobar Corniche Hotel will cater to a diverse clientele, including corporate travelers and …

Earth Riyadh is slated to open in Q3 2026 featuring 86 signature rooms, lofts and suites tailored for the corporate road warriors and leisure travellers seeking to immerse themselves in high energy locally connected experiences. The design, fresh and unapologetically youthful, is the “third place” locals , visitors and the creatives of this vibrant city can enjoy with authentic community engaging spaces, events and activations are a focus of the brand all year round.. More than a hotel, Earth Riyadh is an experience – one that fuses the pulse of Saudi culture with laid-back vibes, bold locally inspired designs, and purposeful hospitality. Located in the Al Maathar district, close key attractions and the Diplomatic Quarter. From a vibrant Eatery bar and lounge to a boutique wellbeing space , a music room, co-working zone, and rooftop lounge, this is where style and substance intersect. Following closely behind is Earth Hotel and Living Jeddah Waterfront, launching in Q3 2027. Positioned on a prime waterfront plot set to create Jeddah’s first integrated urban community by the sea. The property will offer a unique hybrid hospitality and entertainment experience with a place to stay, live, dine and entertain. Its design shall be inspired by the hertiage architecture of the region with a modern take- housing 110 hotel rooms and 179 fully serviced “Earth living” apartments. Earth Jeddah is designed to bring together travelers and locals in spaces that inspire connection and wellbeing. Earth Jeddah will feature co-working zones, event and social spaces , a retail component accessible from the waterfront corniche. Guests can recharge in an expansive wellbeing and longjevity hub offering cryotherapy, float therapy, and high-performance training zones to name a few. It’s bold, …