Tag Archives: Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ranked third globally in the growth rate of international tourist arrivals with over 61% in the first eight to nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2019, according to a press release issued by UN Tourism in December 2024. Through the Ministry of Tourism’s plans and strategies, this consistent performance and continued success in the tourism sector underlines the efforts of all stakeholders in the tourism ecosystem aimed at achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The significant increase in the number of inbound tourists also reflects travelers’ confidence in the Kingdom’s attractive and diverse tourism offering, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia’s standing as a leading global tourist destination. Earlier, Saudi Arabia had advanced 15 positions in the global ranking of inbound tourist spending, leading the upward movement among the top 50 countries and ranking 12th globally in 2023 compared to 2019. Additionally, the Kingdom led the G20 countries in the growth of international tourist arrivals in the first seven months of 2024 compared to 2019.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal, in Saudi Arabia’s northern region. The hotel features 245 rooms and suites, including two Presidential Suites that offer an exceptional blend of comfort and modern design. The hotel also offers 18 state-of-the-art meeting rooms and expansive banqueting facilities, creating the ideal destination for conferences, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. Whether for business or leisure, guests will find a setting crafted to inspire and connect.A beacon of elevated hospitality, this property brings Mövenpick’s signature service excellence to Wa’ad Al Shamal, a strategic economic and industrial hub that plays a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions. Dining at Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal offers a culinary journey through five distinct experiences.Yasmeen Restaurant offers a vibrant selection of Saudi and international cuisines, celebrating the flavors of the region with a contemporary twist. Zafaran Restaurant immerses guests in the rich culinary traditions of Türkiye, providing a truly authentic dining journey. For a refreshing retreat, the Oasis Pool Bar serves signature drinks and light bites in a relaxed poolside setting. The Flora Lobby Lounge provides a welcoming space for guests to unwind with Mövenpick’s signature coffee blends and pastries and invites guests to indulge in the celebrated Mövenpick Chocolate Hour, a daily immersive chocolate tasting experience that delights visitors of all ages. With its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering connections, Mövenpick Wa’ad Al Shamal marks a transformative step in the region’s hospitality landscape. Over 55% of the workforce are Saudi nationals, reinforcing the hotel’s alignment with the national goal of empowering the local workforce. Paul Stevens, Chief Operating Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division for Middle East, Africa & Türkiye …

It was announced that The Red Sea EDITION is slated to open by summer 2025 in Shura Island, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia. EDITION Hotels is launching its second outpost in Saudi Arabia with the opening of The Red Sea EDITION. Nestled on the enchanting Shura Island, this new resort is part of the Kingdom’s visionary Red Sea Project, blending cultural richness with modern sophistication. The hotel will feature 240 meticulously designed guestrooms, including an array of spacious suites. Multiple restaurants and bars set the stage for curated lifestyle experiences the brand is known for globally, while amenities including the spa, swimming pool, and state-of-the-art gym create the ideal setting for a serene, relaxing retreat. As the latest addition to EDITION Hotels’ collection of individualised, one-of-a-kind properties, The Red Sea EDITION exemplifies the brand’s commitment to taste-making design, innovation and a new generation of luxury hospitality.

Red Sea Global (RSG) announced that bookings are now open for its third self-operated property, Desert Rock. Nestled in the heart of an untouched desert landscape where the mountains meet the sands, Desert Rock offers a timeless luxury experience designed to immerse guests in the raw beauty of the natural world. “We are ready to welcome guests to Desert Rock, our third self-operated hotel in the Red Sea Global hospitality portfolio. This is more than just a hotel — it is a unique property, crafted into the rock face, offering a truly immersive experience where luxury and nature come together to create a truly unforgettable escape,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “Whether you are looking to explore the desert and mountains with our adventure team at Akun, unwind in total privacy, or indulge in world-class dining and wellness, Desert Rock offers something extraordinary for every guest.” Desert Rock spans 30,000 square meters of unspoiled land, where architectural mastery meets ancient rocky outcrops. The resort is located just 20 minutes from Red Sea International Airport, making it a convenient yet remote escape for those seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a blend of both. Designed with seamless integration into the rugged terrain, Desert Rock features a variety of accommodations, including pool villas, luxury suites, and private retreats, each offering a unique way to experience the splendor of the surrounding landscape. Villas and Suites Each villa and suite at Desert Rock have been thoughtfully crafted to embrace the natural surroundings, offering an atmosphere of serene luxury. Guests can choose from a range of options, including: Wadi Villas: Ideal for families, these spacious, desert-inspired one- and two-bedroom villas offer private pools and expansive …

Palladium Hotel Group is set to charter new territories following its agreement with Hard Rock International to operate hotels under Hard Rock Hotels and Reverb Hotels in Saudi Arabia. Palladium Hotel Group will be infusing the region’s hospitality market with over 50 years of expertise, following a record-breaking 2023 with an annual revenue of 1.069 billion euros. The group is actively seeking investors and real estate partners with properties that align with the Hard Rock International brand’s bold, lifestyle-focused appeal. Palladium Hotel Group’s impressive portfolio spans over 40 hotels and 13,000 rooms across seven countries, managed under ten distinctive brands, including TRS Hotels, Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotels, and BLESS Collection Hotels. Renowned for delivering exceptional guest experiences and prioritising team wellbeing, the group consistently upholds the highest standards in every venture. This global expertise positions the group as a key player in introducing innovative hospitality solutions to Saudi Arabia’s evolving market. The collaboration builds on a decade-long relationship, with Palladium Hotel Group already managing three standout Hard Rock Hotels in Spain, – Ibiza, Tenerife, and Marbella. The expansion into Saudi Arabia aims to merge Hard Rock International’s signature world-class entertainment and cutting-edge designs with Palladium Hotel Group’s hospitality managing expertise. Together, they aspire to redefine travel experiences for modern guests seeking something fresh and exciting. Jesús Sobrino, CEO of Palladium Hotel Group said, “At Palladium Hotel Group, our vision revolves around creating exceptional guest experiences while fostering sustainable growth and meaningful local partnerships. Aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, we see great potential in bringing our expertise in hospitality management to this dynamic market, adding value through innovation and authenticity.” Carlos Ortega, Corporate Global Development Sr. Director of Palladium Hotel Group added, …

Cruise Saudi welcomed AROYA Cruises’ inaugural ship, AROYA, to Jeddah after a comprehensive transformation, AROYA is now ready to call Jeddah its homeport. Following months of dry-docking and design innovation in Bremerhaven and Rotterdam, AROYA now offers an exceptional cruising experience featuring a fully reimagined interior, with 95% of the ship’s spaces completely redesigned to reflect Arabian heritage and preferences. The ship is equipped with an array of world-class facilities, such as a souq-inspired shopping district – the largest retail area ever built on a cruise ship – luxury spa facilities, a wellness centre, 29 restaurants, lounges and cafes, 20 entertainment venues, and one of the largest children’s play areas at sea. The occasion was celebrated with a traditional plaque and key ceremony, attended by AROYA’s captain, Jan Gelinder, and Cruise Saudi’s CEO, Lars Clasen, and the President of AROYA Cruises, Dr Jorg Rudolph, and the Chief Destination Experiences Offices, Barbara Buczek. Jeddah Islamic Port offers all services to handle international and local guests, as well as logistics services to cruise vessels. The port has long had great historical significance, with Jeddah being the principal gateway to the Two Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah. Cruise terminal facilities have been upgraded to accommodate the largest cruise ships, and new bollards and fenders have been installed to serve cruise ships Clasen commented: “The arrival of AROYA marks the beginning of a new chapter for Cruise Saudi, and tourism in Saudi overall, in line with Saudi’s Vision 2030. Cruise Saudi was only launched in 2021 and witnessing the arrival of our first owned ship just three years later is a huge milestone. We are so grateful to the whole Cruise Saudi team for their …

The Chedi Hegra officially opens its doors at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra, inviting guests to experience an unparalleled fusion of history, luxury, and cultural immersion. The Chedi Hegra features 35 thoughtfully restored rooms, suites, and villas, offering stunning views of the surrounding desert including the necropolis and nature-carved rock formations. The limited number of rooms reflects the hotel’s commitment to preserving the original structures, with many rooms created from existing buildings on-site, incorporating original stone walls and historic architectural features. This approach maintains the integrity of the original structures, blending their timeless craftsmanship with modern luxury. Guests can enjoy private terraces, plunge pools, and interiors inspired by the rich heritage of the Nabataeans, seamlessly connecting with the surrounding natural landscape. Built out of the vestiges of the Hegra Train station and set amidst the ancient Nabataean city surrounded by several other ancient heritage sites, The Chedi Hegra promises an exceptional journey that connects travellers to the rich heritage and captivating beauty of AlUla. Hegra, located in Northwest Saudi Arabia, dates to the 1st century BCE and was once a major city along the historic Incense Road. The railway route, constructed in 1907 under the supervision of German engineer Heinrich Meissner, served as an important link from Medina to Damascus, facilitating the movement of pilgrims and goods. With 200,000 years of human history and its remarkable heritage, the AlUla region is a significant hub of cultural and historical discovery. The Chedi Hegra, preserves the original railway structures, seamlessly blending the past with a tranquil modern experience. The architecture and interiors of The Chedi Hegra, led by Milan based design and architecture studio, Gio Forma, harmonize historical elements with contemporary sophistication, …

Hilton announced the signing of an agreement with Al-Gharaa International for Real Estate Development to open three hotels in the Islamic World District of Knowledge Economic City (KEC) in Madinah. The agreement marks the debut of Hilton’s extended stay brand, Home2 Suites by Hilton, in the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and reaffirms the global hospitality company’s commitment to diversifying its portfolio to meet the increasing demand for hospitality offerings across the Kingdom. Amin Shaker, Chairman of KEC, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “Under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, we are committed to delivering developments that embody the spirit of Madinah as a global destination. Collaborating with Hilton allows us to partner with globally recognised brands that cater to the needs of our residents and visitors, reinforcing our commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and positioning Madinah as a hub for religious tourism.”The agreement was signed in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, representatives from Knowledge Economic City and Hilton. The properties will add 1,415 keys to Hilton’s growing portfolio in Saudi Arabia, offering guests access to short- and long-term accommodation and a wide range of value-added amenities and services, in line with the Kingdom’s vision of elevating the hospitality landscape in the Holy City as the country continues its plans of attracting 150 million visitors annually by 2030. Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, MEA, Hilton, said, “Saudi Arabia is our fastest-growing market in the region with more than 70 hotels in the pipeline. We are fully committed to meeting the growing demand for world-class hospitality across all price points …

Marriott International, Inc. announced it has signed an agreement with Knowledge Economic City (KEC) to open three hotels within the Holy City of Madinah in Saudi Arabia. The anticipated openings will be part of the KEC master-development and feature over 1,200 rooms across three of the company’s brands – Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton and Residence Inn by Marriott. “Under the leadership and guidance of His Highness Prince Salman bin Sultan, we remain committed to advancing the hospitality sector in Madinah by bringing the highest standards of accommodation, innovation and guest experiences to the Holy City,” said Amin Shaker, Chairman of KEC. “We are delighted to collaborate with Marriott International to set new hospitality benchmarks in Madinah and support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 framework.” Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International commented, “We continue to see growth opportunities across the Holy Cities where there remains a strong demand for high-quality hotel accommodation. Knowledge Economic City is a pivotal project that will further help diversify Madinah’s economy and create a destination that provides a variety of experiences for travellers and celebrates the cultural and religious identity of the Holy City. We look forward to working with KEC to enhance the hospitality landscape in Madinah and support the ongoing transformation of the country’s tourism sector.” The planned properties include Courtyard by Marriott Knowledge Economic City, which is expected to comprise 456 thoughtfully designed guestrooms, two dining outlets, multiple meeting facilities, a fitness centre and public spaces for guests to connect and relax. Four Points by Sheraton Knowledge Economic City is anticipated to feature genuine service in a casual environment along with 558 modern guestrooms, multiple dining …

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the Saudi Railway Polytechnic (SRP) have announced a new agreement to boost the capabilities of young Saudis looking to launch a career in AlUla and the Kingdom’s rapidly growing rail sector. Officially signed by representatives of The Royal Commission for AlUla and The Saudi Railway Polytechnic in November in Riyadh, the partnership aims to strengthen the long-term and sustainable development of young Saudi talent. The first stage of the agreement is planned to provide vocational training programmes in railway maintenance and operation that will build sector-specific subjects such as rolling stock and infrastructure through hands-on training. The comprehensive regeneration of AlUla is powering the development of new mobility options across the county, including new rail and tram services such as the Experiential Tram that will link key heritage, tourist, and residential sites once complete. Building the skills, knowledge, and capabilities of AlUla’s workforce is critical to achieving RCU’s transformational and development goals, as well as the long-term ambitions of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan. The history of railways in Saudi Arabia stretches back to 1947 with the construction of the first line, which was followed by the inauguration of a railway linking Dammam with the capital Riyadh. The launch of the Haramain High Speed train Railway between Mecca, Medina, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City in 2018 was a milestone for Saudi Arabia’s rail sector, providing greatly improved speed, safety, and comfort for passengers. In 2021, SAR was created after the annulment of the previous national train operator, the Saudi Railways Organisation. Mohammed Alshkrah, The Human Capability Development VP at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: “The ongoing regeneration of AlUla supports the …