Tag Archives: KSA

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 …

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 …

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.”

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 …

Mercure announces the opening of Mercure Khamis Mushait in the Aseer region, under the management of Amsa Hospitality. Located 15 kilometers away from Abha International Airport, the hotel is the first internationally branded hotel in Khamis Mushait offering 93 modern and comfortable rooms. Infused with Mercure’s signature warmth and deep connection to place, the hotel blends authentic Saudi hospitality with the rich cultural offerings of the Aseer region. Designed for business and leisure travelers, Mercure Khamis Mushait features an all-day dining restaurant, a coffee shop, a modern gym, an indoor swimming pool, and a fully equipped meeting room. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of 24/7 in-room dining and laundry services. The hotel’s design incorporates locally-inspired elements, with thoughtfully curated interiors across its rooms and public spaces that pay tribute to the region’s cultural richness. Since its founding in 1973, Mercure has been dedicated to unveiling the treasures surrounding each address, creating a truly local experience for guests. Through its “Discover Local” programme, Mercure ensures that guests are instantly immersed in a locally inspired atmosphere. The brand has recently achieved a historic milestone by surpassing 1,000 hotels worldwide. Hameed Ali, General Manager, said: “We take immense pride in bringing Mercure’s renowned hospitality to the Aseer region. Our dedicated team is committed to providing guests with a unique blend of local character and exceptional service, whether visiting for business or leisure.” Aamir Riaz, Chief Operating Officer of Amsa Hospitality, said: “We at Amsa Hospitality are beyond delighted to start welcoming guests to Mercure Khamis Mushait. We thank the Accor team for their excellent collaboration and look forward to continuing our work together to make sure our guests experience the warmth of …

Blacklane has revealed expansion plans throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of its growth strategy. This milestone marks the first phase of Blacklane’s expansion across the Kingdom, supported by TASARU Mobility Investments (“TASARU”), an investment entity wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (“PIF”). The expansion follows the momentum of Blacklane’s scale-up across Dubai and marks a considerable step in its continued growth across the Middle East. Blacklane now has operations in more than 50 countries. Addressing the increasing demand for luxury and sustainable mobility services in the region, Blacklane will offer premium vehicles, with plans to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) in a future phase to set a new benchmark for sustainable mobility across the Kingdom. Plus, Blacklane’s investment plans include the roll out of the Blacklane Chauffeur Academy providing professional training options to chauffeur partners in Saudi Arabia. First-class options available on the Blacklane platform will include Blacklane’s trademark black and white two-tone luxury vehicles. Dr. Jens Wohltorf, CEO and co-founder, Blacklane, said: “Bringing our luxury chauffeur service to the Kingdom marks an exciting milestone in Blacklane’s global expansion. Saudi is a key destination for sophisticated travellers and residents alike, and we’re proud to introduce a new standard of reliable, high quality and seamless mobility to the region. We are dedicated to fostering local talent and supporting the continued growth of Saudi’s thriving economic diversification”. Michael Mueller, CEO of TASARU Mobility Investments, said: “TASARU’s investment in Blacklane marks a key milestone in our ongoing efforts to transform the mobility sector in Saudi Arabia. By introducing premium, sustainable chauffeur services and advanced training through the Chauffeur Academy, we’re actively contributing to Vision 2030’s objectives, including economic diversification, and local …

The Ministry of Tourism Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has launched a new service that enables visitors to verify the license status of their chosen hotels and serviced apartments in Makkah and Madinah. The verification tool, now available on the ministry’s website www.mt.gov.sa, aims to ensure quality services and protect the rights of visitors. This step is part of the ministry’s ongoing campaign Our Guests Come First that seeks to enhance visitor experience and ensure that hospitality facilities comply with standards and licensing requirements. This service will empower visitors to make informed decisions when booking accommodation, ensuring a comfortable and safe stay. The ministry is also working to expand the service’s reach to a wider audience. The Ministry of Tourism continues to respond to inquiries and receive feedback regarding hospitality services. Visitors can contact the Unified Tourism Center at 930 or reach out through the ministry’s official social media channels.

Makkah Hotel and Towers was recognised as the ‘Best 5 Star Hotel KSA’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. Makkah Hotel and Towers is the closest hotel to holy Haram situated in prime central location in Makkah right a few steps away from the Holy Mosque. The Makkah Millennium Towers offers a prime location over the Haram piazza in front of King Fahd gate with unique features, including rooms and suites with stunning views, a wide variety of culinary options, and a shopping mall.

Al Naboodah Travel was honoured with the title ‘Fastest Growing Travel Agency, KSA’at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “It is a wonderful experience. It is a moment of pride and recognition for all those who have worked hard, who have worked smartly, who have performed well. And I think this recognition will add a lot of value, confidence, and inspiration for all of us to do even better and better for the coming years. I am overexcited, and I am looking forward to winning more than three awards next year.”- Nasir Jamal Khan, CEO, Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism Agencies

Millennium Hail won the title of ‘Best Business Hotel – KSA’ at the seventh edition of the Arabian Travel Awards 2024. “Arabian Travel Awards 2024 is a tremendous honour that validates our commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences and setting new standards in the hospitality industry. This prestigious recognition highlights our dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences and redefining hospitality standards.”-Marc Sawaya, Cluster Commercial Director, Millennium Hotels and Resorts