Rua Al Madinah Holding has signed an agreement with Hilton to open three hotels comprising of over 1600 keys at Rua Al Madinah mega-project, including Conrad Rua Al Madinah, DoubleTree by Hilton Rua Al Madinah, and Hilton Garden Inn Rua Al Madinah. Located at the area east of Al Masjid Al Nabawai, the Prophet’s Mosque, Rua Al Madinah aims to create a distinctive modern and urban environment, underpinned by the religious and cultural significance of the Holy City of Madinah. This agreement marks a significant milestone for Rua Al Madinah and signifies the debut of the luxury Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand in Madinah. Moreover, the agreement is set to create more than 1,100 jobs, opening doors and providing career opportunities for Saudis. Commenting on the signing, Ahmed Al Juhani, Chief Executive Officer, Rua Al Madinah Holding, said: “We are excited to announce our agreement with Hilton, which will significantly enhance Rua Al Madinah with a suite of multi-ranged accommodations. This hotel management agreement marks a crucial step in elevating the experience of Madinah’s local and international visitors. Our company strives to achieve the objectives of our project, aimed at contributing to increasing visitor capacity and delivering an unparalleled experience”. Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said: “The signing of Rua Al Madinah properties signals a milestone in Hilton’s ongoing expansion across Saudi Arabia. The hotels will further strengthen Hilton’s footprint in the Kingdom and consolidate our presence in Madinah, catering to the thousands of visitors and pilgrims who travel through Madinah every year. As we quadruple our presence in Saudi Arabia in the coming years, we continue to work with our partners to introduce Hilton’s award-winning brands …

Marriott International, Inc. and Al Qimmah Hospitality (a subsidiary of BinDawood Trading) signed an agreement to introduce the JW Marriott brand in Jeddah. Situated on the Jeddah Corniche, JW Marriott Hotel Jeddah is anticipated to be a haven for travelers who seek a luxury escape to the waterfront destination, paired with exceptional service and holistic well-being experiences. Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President, Development – Middle East, Marriott International said, “The signing of JW Marriott Hotel Jeddah continues to reflect the strong growth opportunities for our luxury brands across the Kingdom. As part of the country’s Vision 2030 framework, Jeddah continues to build itself as a leisure and business destination. We look forward to working with Al Qimmah Hospitality and BinDawood Trading to enhance the city’s luxury hospitality landscape with the JW Marriott brand’s legacy of extraordinary hospitality, thoughtful design, and enriching well-being experiences.” On behalf of Al Qimmah Hospitality, Dr. Abdul Razzaq BinDawood commented, “We extend our gratitude to the leadership of the Kingdom who have paved the way for mixed-use real estate development and the expansion of luxury hospitality offerings in Jeddah. We will leverage our expertise and experience in the retail and hospitality sectors to make JW Marriott Hotel Jeddah a successful addition to the city’s landscape.” JW Marriott Hotel Jeddah is anticipated to offer 280 stylishly appointed guestrooms including more than 50 suites. Plans for the hotel include two restaurants, a lobby cafe and pool lounge, and leisure facilities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and Spa by JW. Other signature brand features anticipated to be included at the property include a JW Garden, multiple serene spaces, and Family by JW experiences. The property is also expected to …

Speaking at a special interview with TravTalk ME, Gloria Guevara – Chief Advisor to the Minister of Tourism Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – Mohammed Al Khateeb, stated that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is taking more action than just sharing words to ensure that the tourism industry thrives in the nation. She shared that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is now focusing on empowering more women to the travel, tourism and hospitality sectors and currently consist of almost 45% in the industry. According to research it is shared that 30% of the global population are under the age of 35 years hence they will have the opportunity to delve into careers based on their passion in the industry as the government from His Royal Highness, the immense support provided to train and mentor the youth and women leaders is a commendable strategy to go towards the goals set for 2030.

A new passenger terminal is set to be built at a cost of AED128 billion, the new terminal will ultimately enable the airport to handle a passenger capacity of 260 million annually at Al Maktoum International Airport. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the strategic plan of the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects and approved designs for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, which will be the largest in the world when fully operational. The approval came during His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s visit to the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Sheikh Mohammed said: “Today, we approved the designs for the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, and commencing construction of the building at a cost of AED 128 billion as part of Dubai Aviation Corporation’s strategy. “Al Maktoum International Airport will enjoy the world’s largest capacity, reaching up to 260 million passengers. It will be five times the size of the current Dubai International Airport, and all operations at Dubai International Airport will be transferred to it in the coming years. The airport will accommodate 400 aircraft gates and feature five parallel runways. New aviation technologies will be employed for the first time in the aviation sector,” His Highness said. “As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for …

Cheval Collection’s newest property in the Middle East – Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai – will open in early 2025 as part of the UK-based, award-winning, hospitality company’s expansion in the region. Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai, sister property to Cheval Maison -The Palm Dubai, will be one of Cheval Collection’s largest properties, with 150 luxury hotel apartments, including studios, one-and two-bedroom units and two royal suites. Located alongside the iconic Al Wasl Plaza, Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai is a repurpose of the showpiece Leadership Pavilion that hosted world leaders during EXPO 2020 and COP28. It is currently undergoing a full refurbishment. Mohammed S Alawadhi, Managing Director, Cheval Collection, said: “We are delighted to launch another property in Dubai in line with our continued growth and evolution in the Middle East. As Cheval Maison – The Palm Dubai celebrates a tremendous first year of operation, we are anticipating the same success from our upcoming opening in Dubai’s prestigious Expo City. “Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai is a key milestone in our business expansion, reinforcing our commitment to the region – and our role in contributing to government tourism goals. Dubai is firmly established as a world-leading, pioneering tourism hub, and we are proud to be part of the city’s growth, diversification and accomplishments. We look forward to continued success at Cheval Maison – The Palm, opening in Expo City Dubai, and to further expansion in the Middle East.” Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai will bear all the hallmarks of the much-loved brand: a strategic, vibrant location, luxury home-from-home accommodation, high-end fitness facilities, great dining options and convenient transport links. The property will feature a rooftop pool, …

Accor in partnership with Alesayi Holding announced plans for the opening of a new hotel and residences development, Abraj Omar Hotel & Residences Makkah – MGallery Collection, located in the heart of the Holy City of Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Set to open in 2028, Abraj Omar Hotel & Residences Makkah – MGallery Collection is poised to be a storied and sophisticated destination full of luxury, beauty and culture. The project will span across 2,600 square meters, consisting of 276 hotel rooms and 214 branded residences for sale. The building will also include a business center, a bespoke fitness room and spa, variety of restaurants, and playground for children. Nestled in the bustling heart of Makkah, this hotel serves as a harmonious urban oasis, paying tribute to Makkah’s celestial heritage while drawing inspiration from the rich symbolism of Islamic gardens. The hotel will provide a sanctuary for serenity, spiritual reflection and rejuvenation. Pilgrims and travelers alike will be invited to immerse themselves in this lush harbor within the city with a unique hotel concept to inspire wonder, encourage spiritual reflection in this sacred location, serving as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness between the material and spiritual. Every floor of the building will be intricately themed around prominent figures in Islamic history, with the first floor honouring Omar Ibn Al-Khattab (May Allah be pleased with Him), the second Rashidun caliph and one of the ten to whom Jannah was promised. The intention is for the guest to really experience a boutique hotel stay. The hotel will join the MGallery Collection brand. Established in 2008 the collection of signature, design, and heritage hotels today counts more than 120 luxury boutique hotels …

Qatar Tourism is pleased to announce the establishment of a new representation office in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), serving as its dedicated sales and marketing representative in this important market. Masterkey has been tasked with promoting Qatar’s offerings and services, focusing on building leisure demand from KSA. Their primary role will involve educating trade partners in KSA about Qatar’s diverse products and services, aiming to generate greater interest and demand for Qatar as a leisure destination. They will collaborate closely with major tour operators and online travel agencies (OTAs) to effectively showcase Qatar’s attractions and experiences. This new representation underscores Qatar Tourism’s commitment to further developing and strengthening its presence in the KSA market, fostering partnerships with local entities, and ultimately providing exceptional travel experiences to visitors from Saudi Arabia.

Future Hospitality Summit kicks off today in Riyadh with TravTalk Middle East as media partner. The three day event from today until 1st May 2024 will witness a great line up of speakers who will share their key facts on tourism, development and infrastructure for tourism, how the sector can overcome potential challenges to ensure that the targets are met and some key trends in the region. Saudi Arabia has recently revised its annual tourism target to 150 million visitors a year by 2030, after achieving the original goal of 100 million seven years ahead of schedule, thanks to the country’s continued – and unprecedented – investment in infrastructure, tourism transformation, hospitality and real estate as part of Vision 2030. With a seemingly endless array of new hotels, resorts and tourist attractions being announced, breaking ground and opening for businesses in KSA, Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) Saudi Arabia will hone in on the future of successful hotel and destination development in the Kingdom as part of its three day, action packed agenda.  

At the recent event by Department of Tourism in the Philippines, they shared the latest news from their very special retirement visa for expats in the GCC. Mervin A Magbuhat, Director Chief Client Relations and Program Development Division Marketing Department of Philippines Retirement Authority shared that they are presenting this new scheme to attract all interested in retiring in the Philippines. He shared that the requirements for the programme has been revised and with an investment of USD 20,000 a person above 50 years will be eligible to apply for this special visa which would be a gateway for the family as well to settle down in the Philippines.

The Saudi pavilion participating in Expo 2025 Osaka in Japan has announced an unprecedented cultural and artistic program encompassing more than 700 events to introduce visitors to Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, mega projects and various economic opportunities. According to SPA, the Saudi pavilion at the expo will present Saudi Arabia’s past, transformational journey and vision for a sustainable and prosperous future. It will include a wide range of performances, such as traditional arts, classical music and fashion shows. Saudi chefs will present a mix of flavours inspired by different regions of the Kingdom, and Saudi musicians and artists will perform daily to highlight the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage. A dedicated area for prominent figures will host various sessions and display a series of presentations to inform companies and investors of all the economic opportunities available in the Kingdom. More than 200 selections of souvenirs will be displayed in the gift shop, each a testament to authentic Saudi craftsmanship. Visitors from around the world will learn about AlUla City, located in north-west Saudi Arabia, which is home to dramatic desert landscapes, spectacular rock formations and some of the Middle East’s most significant ancient sites. Major Saudi projects will be highlighted, including NEOM, the land of the future; THE LINE, the 170-kilometre-long city that will be the future of urban living; Oxagon, which is redefining the traditional industrial model; and Trojena, the mountain resort of NEOM. The pavilion will also showcase aspects of ‘Green Riyadh,’ a revolutionary project that aims to transform Saudi Arabia’s capital into a green oasis by planting 7.5 million trees by 2030. This project aims to place Riyadh as one of the world’s top 100 most livable cities. …