Saudi Arabia rolls out complimentary hotel stays for GCC travellers

Saudi Arabia has launched an initiative to provide complimentary hotel accommodation to GCC travellers stranded in the kingdom following recent travel disruptions.

The directive, issued by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, follows several days of Iranian attacks on GCC nations, which have forced regional airspace closures and caused severe flight disruptions at major Gulf hubs, including Dubai and Doha, leaving large numbers of holidaymakers stranded.

The order ensures that GCC nationals affected by flight suspensions or travel delays are hosted, cared for and supported until they can safely return home.

In line with the royal directive, the Makkah Chamber of Commerce has allocated 2,500 fully serviced hotel rooms to accommodate stranded GCC citizens, ensuring that all guests receive appropriate hospitality, including meals and transportation assistance during their stay.

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Chairman of the Hotels and Tourism Committee at the Chamber, Abdulmohsen Al-Ajlan, said the initiative reflects Saudi’s “human-centred values and unwavering solidarity with its Gulf neighbours”, adding that Makkah “remains a welcoming home for all who arrive on its land”. 

The directive’s implementation has seen the kingdom’s hospitality sector step up to assist stranded travellers. Hotel management group Boudl Hotels & Resorts has announced the availability of rooms for GCC nationals at six properties across the country, including Narcissus Royal Hotel and Boudl Al Woroud in Riyadh and Bera Hotel in Dammam.