Marriott International to Open Three Hotels in Madinah

As part its support to the ongoing transformation of the Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, Marriott International, Inc. has signed an agreement with Saudi 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.

KEC Chairman Amin Shaker said that under the leadership and guidance of H H Prince Salman bin Sultan, KEC is committed to advancing the hospitality sector in Madinah by bringing the highest standards of accommodation, innovation and guest experiences to the Holy City.

Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International, said that they continue to see growth opportunities across the Holy Cities where there remains a strong demand for high-quality hotel accommodation.

KEC 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, he added.

According to a statement, 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 outlets, meeting rooms and a fitness centre. 

Plans for Residence Inn by Marriott Knowledge Economic City include a modern residential experience with 250 studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, all equipped with a full kitchen and large bathrooms. The property will also include a 24/7 grab-and-go market and fitness centre.

The projects will be located within KEC’s Islamic World District which will feature a museum, cultural centre and plaza showcasing the diverse Islamic cultures from around the world.

World-Class Destination

Spread across 6.8 million sq. m., KEC is developing a world-class destination featuring hospitality, residential, retail and commercial components along with sports and recreational facilities and high-quality education and healthcare services.

The key pillars of the project include technology, knowledge, and sustainability. The development will also be connected to the Haramain Train Station which links Madinah with Jeddah and Makkah via a high-speed railway.

KEC CEO Mohammad Al Mubarak said that KEC is committed to offer an unparalleled lifestyle and hospitality experience for residents and visitors alike, and this milestone agreement is a testament to the high standards of excellence they plan to bring to the master-development and Madinah as a destination. 

He said that Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton and Residence Inn by Marriott each offer a unique travel experience, and we are excited to add these brands to our portfolio. These hotels will play an important role in the accommodating the influx of travellers into the Holy City.

The expected openings in Madinah are also a part of Marriott International’s commitment to the growth of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia where the company’s current portfolio encompasses over 40 properties and more than 10,000 rooms across 13 of its brands.