Hilton has revealed plans to quadruple its presence by opening more than 60 new hotels across major cities and multiple regional tourism destinations across Saudi Arabia in the coming years. During a recent visit to the kingdom, president and CEO of the global hospitality group Chris Nassetta met with the country’s Ministry of Tourism, to discuss further expansions as well as leading a ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Hotel Galleria Jeddah, Curio Collection, and a signing ceremony between Hilton and Dan Company for three properties in Al Ahsa.
Chris Nassetta, president & CEO of Hilton, said: “It’s great to be back in Saudi Arabia and experience the incredible progress made in developing the country’s tourism infrastructure. Hilton has operated in the kingdom for almost 30 years and forged strong relationships that allow us to continue driving our expansion plans into even more destinations. We now have two-thirds of our pipeline under construction and we are working to quadruple our portfolio across [Saudi Arabia] – which is a true testament to the remarkable development vision led by the kingdom’s leaders and our valued owner partners. I am thrilled that Hilton is playing a role in contributing to this inspiring future.”
Hilton to add earning and redemption benefits for “hundreds” of SLH properties
Hilton, which was recently named #1 World’s Best Workplace by Fortune magazine and Great Place to Work, has already debuted the Hampton by Hilton and Curio Collection by Hilton brands in Saudi Arabia this year, and its expansion plans will see their offering in the country grow to more than 100 properties in the near future. By quadrupling their Saudi Arabia portfolio, Hilton will be creating almost 10,000 new jobs – with more than half of these new hires hoped to be Saudi nationals – along with securing their position as a key contributor to the kingdom’s goal of attracting 150 million visitors and increasing hotel rooms to 55,000 by 2030.
Saudi Arabia’s minister of tourism, H.E. Al Khateeb, stated: “This significant expansion underscores our dedication to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s tourism infrastructure, positioning the Kingdom as a prime opportunity for global investors. By focusing on enriching our hospitality offerings, as well as activities and entertainment options, we are catering to the growing number of visitors attracted by our sporting events, giga-projects, and cultural and religious sites.”