IHG Hotels & Resorts Announces Opening of Saudi Headquarter in Riyadh

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, October 16 2023: IHG^® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading  companies, is rapidly expanding in Saudi Arabia in alignment to the Kingdom’s Saudisation goals and ambitious Vision 2030. The company continues to debut more brands in the Kingdom from its global portfolio — with 50 per cent of the Group’s current Middle East hotel development pipeline based in Saudi Arabia. 

IHG's expansion plans in Saudi Arabia are in line with the company's focus on job creation and talent development. Around 1,700 colleagues or 44% of the company’s current workforce in the country constitutes of Saudi Nationals, and IHG aims to continue to grow this number by hiring 6,000 Saudi nationals by 2030. By investing in local talent and contributing to the country's economic growth, IHG aims to be a driving force behind Saudi Arabia's hospitality sector. 

IHG’s commitment to KSA is further reinforced by the recent opening of its Saudi headquarters in Riyadh — solidifying the company’s role and expansion in the Kingdom. The grand ceremony took place in the presence of Mr. Moataz Kurdi, Deputy Minister of Policies and Regulations, Ministry of Tourism in Saudi Arabia. 

Located at the heart of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) — a mixed-use financial district in Riyadh, the office will support the company’s growing presence and will contribute to the Kingdom’s development as a prominent global economy. 

Mr. Mahmoud Abdulhadi, Deputy Minister of Tourism Destinations Enablement, Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia said: "As we continue to attract investment and foster growth in Saudi Arabia's tourism sector, IHG Hotels & Resorts' substantial expansion within our borders is a testament to the promising opportunities the Kingdom offers. This commitment to investing in our market aligns with our mission to create a dynamic, investor-friendly environment aimed at driving economic diversification. This in turn brings us closer to realizing Saudi Vision 2030." 

On the occasion, Mr. Moataz Kurdi, Deputy Minister of Policies and Regulations, Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia said: "As we work towards the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030 including economic diversification, social progress, and cultural enrichment, we are strategically positioning the Kingdom to become a top global destination for travelers from all over the world. IHG Hotels & Resorts' commitment to this vision, exemplified by the opening of their Saudi Headquarter in Riyadh, reflects our joint dedication to Saudi Vision 2030. These steps will not only accelerate the Kingdom's tourism sector, but also contribute significantly to our economic growth and development goals, enhancing Saudi Arabia's position at the world stage. 

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts for SWA, Middle East and Africa commented: “Saudi Arabia stands as a primary focus for IHG and our decision to establish a stronger local presence in the country through the new country headquarter in Riyadh reinforces our commitment to this dynamic region. IHG has been heavily focused on developing strategy and business plans that align with the vision of the leadership of Saudi Arabia to deliver on the economic and tourism growth ambitions for the country. With its rich cultural heritage, a robust economy and accelerating tourist numbers, the Kingdom offers immense opportunities for growth and development within its hospitality sector. This is an important next step in our growth in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is a truly significant move to solidify IHG’s position as one of the leading hospitality companies in the country.” 

Maher Abou Nasr, VP Operations, Saudi Arabia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, added: "The opening of our new office in Riyadh signifies IHG’s expanding presence in the country, with half of our hotels in the Middle East pipeline set to open doors in the Kingdom. As the visionary Saudi leadership continues to rack its Saudization efforts in boosting local talent development, IHG is committed to being a part of KSA’s growth story.” 

Saudi Arabia is a priority market for IHG in the Middle East, with a current portfolio of 40 operating hotels and 32 hotels in the pipeline. Recent signings in the Kingdom include Regent Jeddah, a Kimpton in King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), a Hotel Indigo property Oxagon, NEOM, an MDA to open 12 ‘ Next Generation’ Holiday Inn Express hotels across the country and more.