IHG Hotels & Resorts is gearing up to launch its entire lineup of Luxury & Lifestyle brands in Saudi Arabia by 2028. This ambitious plan highlights the Kingdom’s growing importance as a key market for IHG, aligning perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying its economy and enhancing its global tourism appeal.
Historic Growth in Saudi Arabia
IHG’s commitment to Saudi Arabia dates back to 1975 with the inauguration of the InterContinental Riyadh. Over the last fifty years, the Kingdom has evolved into one of IHG’s most pivotal regions, boasting a robust collection of active hotels and a significant pipeline of future developments. As the nation focuses on transforming its tourism sector to attract up to 150 million visitors by 2030, IHG is strategically broadening its reach across various segments—including Luxury & Lifestyle, Premium, Essentials, and Suites. This extensive range equips IHG to adeptly meet diverse travel demands, encompassing domestic, religious, business, leisure, and luxury travel.
Luxury & Lifestyle as a Growth Engine
Luxury & Lifestyle brands have become a crucial component of IHG’s trajectory in Saudi Arabia. By 2028, the company aims to showcase six distinct Luxury & Lifestyle brands, driven by an increasing demand for unique and culturally rich hospitality experiences. This trend signifies the growing trust that property owners place in IHG’s leading brands and commercial platforms, fostering a collaborative environment that supports long-term growth in the Kingdom.
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director for IHG in the Middle East, Africa, and Southwest Asia, expressed the sentiment that Saudi Arabia is not just another market but a vital player in the global hospitality landscape. He emphasized the evolving expectations of travelers who increasingly seek luxury experiences infused with authentic local flavor. IHG’s goal is to work alongside innovative partners to create remarkable destinations that will shape the future of travel in the region.
New Horizons in Luxury Hospitality
The recent debut of Kimpton KAFD Riyadh marks the introduction of the Kimpton brand to the Middle East, addressing the rising demand for experiential luxury in major cities. Meanwhile, Maher Abou Nasr, Managing Director for IHG Saudi Arabia, reiterated that the growth strategy in the Kingdom is purposeful and aligned with the nation’s future vision. With 48 hotels already operational and an additional 62 under construction, IHG is building a legacy dedicated to creating lasting value across stakeholders.
Apart from the Kimpton brand, IHG is steadily expanding its portfolio with other distinguished brands such as InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Six Senses, Regent, and Hotel Indigo. The upcoming openings are strategically placed in areas where luxury demand and cultural significance converge, including Six Senses Southern Dunes, which opened in December 2023, and several others set to launch between 2026 and 2028.
Strengthened Commitment Through Local Partnerships
A pivotal aspect of IHG’s strategy includes the establishment of its dedicated Riyadh office in 2023. This move aims to enhance relationships with hotel owners, bolster hotel performance, and foster collaboration with both public and private sectors. With a comprehensive approach focused on diverse offerings and strategic partnerships, IHG is well-positioned to support Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become a leading global tourism destination by 2028.
With the entire lineup of Luxury & Lifestyle brands expected to make their mark in the Kingdom soon, IHG is set to play an essential role in shaping the future of hospitality in Saudi Arabia, contributing to its vision of a vibrant and diversified tourism landscape.