Hotels are enjoying healthy growth in Saudi and investments are pouring in to meet the growing demand. Let’s take a look at the new developments in the works, and who else is making noise in the Middle East’s hospitality scene.

Wynn Resort in RAK is 55% complete

Wynn Resorts is on track to open Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah in early 2027, with 55% of the structural concrete now complete. Poised to change and elevate tourism in the region, the ultra-luxurious beachfront Wynn Al Marjan Island will feature 1,542 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, a world-class spa, a high-end shopping promenade, a state-of-the-art meeting and events centre, a vibrant nightlife scene.

Marriot’s MEA expansion

Marriott International has significantly expanded its footprint in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) luxury residential market, with 41 projects, including 29 in the pipeline and 12 operational properties currently in the portfolio. Dana Jacobsohn, Chief Development Officer, Global Mixed-Use Development, attributed Marriott’s global growth in the branded residential segment to the region, saying it’s “home to the world’s most coveted and iconic destinations.”

By the end of 2024, Marriott is expected to open several high-profile properties, including:
– Marriott Residences Al Barsha South, Dubai,
– Nujuma, Ritz-Carlton Reserve Residence, on Saudi’s Red Sea Coast, and
– The Residences at the St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat in Oman.

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Earlier this week

Saudi enjoys tourism surge, builds new resort

According to Saudi’s Ministry of Tourism, Riyadh enjoyed a surge in tourism numbers during the recent mid-year school break, with five-star hotels reaching a 97% occupancy rate. Largely driven by the Saudi Winter events calendar, Riyadh Season, and various international conferences held in the city, the Ministry of Tourism shared that it will further optomise tourism growth by is streamlining the licensing process for hospitality facilities

Meanwhile, the Kingdom’s Tourism Development Fund (TDF) is investing $372 million to build a multi-purpose resort on Half Moon Beach in the Eastern Province. Operated by Rixos and managed by Accor, the expansive 262,000 sqm resort will feature 400 hotel rooms, 41 villas, and various dining and entertainment options.

Qatar’s hospitality industry sees uptick in occupancy and revenue

Qatar’s hospitality sector is enjoying healthy growth thanks to increasing tourist numbers, The Peninsula reported. The country’s high-quality hotel offerings, including a large number of four- and five-star hotels and deluxe apartments, have contributed to this success. Despite a seasonal decline in tourist arrivals during the summer months, the overall performance of the sector has been strong, with record numbers of visitors in the first half of 2024.

While new hotel development and projects have slowed down, the current supply of nearly 40,000 hotel rooms and apartments, coupled with the increasing demand from both domestic and international tourists, has led to improved occupancy rates with Saudi Arabia remaining the country’s largest source market, followed by India.

Radisson opens second hotel in Kuwait

Radisson Hotel Group has opened its second hotel in Kuwait, the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel & Apartments. Located in the Mahboula district, the hotel offers 180 rooms and 70 serviced apartments, featuring panoramic sea views. The hotel also boasts a state-of-the-art conference facility center and an all day restaurant. Located within easy reach of Kuwait International Airport, popular shopping malls, and tourist attractions, guests can look forward the hotel’s comfortable and modern design; and all of the nearby amenities.

UHM takes the reins at voco Bonnington JLT

Following Arzan Investment Management’s recent acquisition of the voco Bonnington Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), UHM, has been appointed to manage the property. A luxury hospitality management company with 30 years of experience, UHM will oversee the operations of the property under the IHG Hotels & Resorts’ upscale voco brand. This move also strengthens UHM’s presence and position in the Middle East