Hilton plans 13 hotels in Saudi Arabia

The FINANCIAL — According to Gulfbusiness, Hilton Hotels Corporation on December 14 said it has entered into a non-exclusive Strategic Development Agreement (SDA) with the Abdulmohsen Al-Hokair Group for Tourism and Development, with the aim of delivering 13 Hilton Garden Inn properties.

"These properties, which will be managed by Hilton, will be in key locations across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The first property is anticipated to open in 2009 in Riyadh," a company statement said.

"This landmark agreement marks the entry of the first Hilton Garden Inn, the Hilton Family's focused service brand, in the Middle East and Africa region."

Over the next five years, Hilton and Al Hokair plan to introduce Hilton Garden Inn hotels across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in locations such as Riyadh, Al Khobar, Dammam, Jubail, King Abdullah Economic City, Taif, Abha, Tabuk, Hail/Buraydah and Yanbu.

"The full spectrum of the Hilton family of hotels gives us tremendous opportunities for growth in all global markets," said Jean-Paul Herzog, President, Hilton Hotels, Middle East and Africa.

Global presence

"We are delighted to have signed our first multi-unit Hilton Garden Inn agreement in the Middle East with the Al Hokair Group in Saudi Arabia. This agreement is a testament to the country's tremendous growth potential," he added.

Hilton Garden Inn is a service brand offering rates for the mid-market traveller. The hotel will feature guest rooms offering a minimum size of 28 square metres, two food and beverage outlets, including a restaurant and lounge area and a number of small meeting rooms.

Sami Al Hokair, executive vice-president of The Al Hokair Group said, "As one of the top hospitality company, their global presence and experience gives us the confidence that this alliance will be a great success."

The Kingdom's Tourism Higher Authority (THA) has taken significant steps to further the country's tourism potential. Alongside religious tourism, Saudi Arabia boasts a growing potential for major international conferences.