Hilton to grow Saudi portfolio to 75...

The incredible progress being made is paving the way for a new golden age of travel, says Hilton CEO

Hilton and TDF signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the recent WTTC Global Summit to develop family-friendly leisure destinations across several Saudi locations in alignment with the National Tourism Strategy.

Hilton currently operates 16 hotels in KSA and has another 46 under development. Upcoming brands to launch in the kingdom include LXR Hotels & Resorts, Curio Collection by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, and Motto by Hilton.

Moving forward, Hilton will share its expertise with the Fund to facilitate the development of these destinations, adding water parks, entertainment venues, adventure activities, leisure amenities and food and beverage outlets.

Hilton’s Saudi Arabia expansion also includes the signing of Waldorf Astoria Diriyah, in partnership with the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) as well as agreements with Alshaya Group for the upcoming Canopy by Hilton Al Khobar Ajdan Waterfront and Hampton by Hilton Hafr al-Batin.

Commenting on the partnership, Saudi Arabia Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb said: "Saudi Vision 2030 has set the bar high for the Kingdom’s travel and tourism industry and we are committed to making Saudi Arabia one of the world’s top tourist destinations in the years to come.

"We are leaving no stone unturned to work on innovative projects with globally leading industry partners and look forward to achieving milestones through our collaboration with Hilton.”

Hilton president and CEO Chris Nassetta added: “It was incredible to be back in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the WTTC Global Summit and to meet with important partners. Hilton has operated in the Kingdom for more than 25 years, providing world-renowned hospitality and helping to shape an exciting future for tourism with new hotels in exciting destinations.

"The strength of Hilton’s partnerships in Saudi Arabia is testament to the government’s strategic vision and the incredible progress being made to develop the country’s tourism infrastructure, paving the way for a new golden age of travel.”

For more information, visit www.hilton.com