The occupancy of Riyadh‘s 5 star hotels reached 97% during the mid year school break.
Riyadh welcomed 8.8 million domestic and 1.3 million international tourists in the first half of 2024, with an overall hotel occupancy of 90%.
This surge has been due to Saudi Winter events, the Riyadh Season, and global conferences such as Cityscape Global.
The Rise of Riyadh
Soaring Occupancy Rates
The crown jewel of this hospitality boom is undoubtedly the performance of Riyadh’s five-star hotels. These premium establishments have achieved an astounding 97% occupancy rate during peak periods, such as the recent mid-year school break.
This near-capacity level of bookings not only demonstrates the strong demand for luxury accommodations but also highlights Riyadh’s emergence as a destination capable of attracting high-end travelers from around the world.
Record-Breaking Visitor Numbers
The Saudi capital has witnessed an extraordinary influx of tourists in recent months, breaking previous records and cementing its status as a premier destination.
In the first half of 2024 alone, Riyadh welcomed an astounding 8.8 million domestic tourists, showcasing the city’s growing appeal to local travelers seeking world-class experiences within their own borders.
This surge in domestic tourism reflects a shifting paradigm in Saudi travel habits, with more citizens opting to explore the wonders of their homeland.
Complementing the domestic boom, Riyadh has also seen a significant uptick in international visitors. An impressive 1.3 million foreign tourists chose the Saudi capital as their destination of choice during the same period, highlighting the city’s increasing global allure.
This influx of travelers has led to an overall hotel and apartment occupancy rate surpassing 90%, with luxury establishments reaching an impressive 97% during peak periods.
Riyadh Season: Driving Tourism Growth
At the heart of Riyadh’s tourism transformation lies the Riyadh Season, a months-long festival that has become a cornerstone of the city’s entertainment calendar.
Launched as part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to boost tourism and improve quality of life for residents, the event has grown exponentially since its inception.
Riyadh Season’s Diverse Zones
The success of Riyadh Season can be attributed to its diverse array of attractions and experiences, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups. From world-class concerts and theatrical performances, the event offers something for everyone. These zones include:
- Boulevard World
- Boulevard City
- The Groves
- Via Riyadh
- Wonder Garden
- Kingdom Arena
- Riyadh Zoo
- Christian Dior Designer of Dreams
- Souq AlAwaleen
- Suwaidi Park
- The Venue
- BLVD Runway
- Studio Tour
- Dunes of Arabia
Global Entertainment Hub
Riyadh Season has firmly established the Saudi capital as a global entertainment hub, hosting a diverse range of international acts and events.
From high-profile boxing and wrestling matches to prestigious tennis and other sports tournaments, including the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship and 6 Kings Slam, the festival has attracted top-tier talent from around the world.
These sporting events, combined innovative cultural performances, have positioned Riyadh as a must-visit destination for entertainment enthusiasts.
The festival’s success in drawing international visitors has had a direct impact on the city’s hospitality sector, with many tourists extending their stays to fully experience all that Riyadh Season has to offer.
Cultural Attractions and Heritage Sites
Riyadh’s year-round appeal is further enhanced by its wealth of cultural attractions and heritage sites. The city serves as a gateway to exploring the Kingdom’s rich history, with numerous museums, historical landmarks, and archaeological sites within easy reach.
Visitors can explore the fascinating National Museum of Saudi Arabia, wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif in nearby Diriyah, or marvel at the modern architecture of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).
By showcasing Saudi Arabia’s unique heritage alongside its modern developments, Riyadh, one of the world’s top 15 fastest-growing cities, appeals to a diverse range of travelers, from history enthusiasts to contemporary culture seekers.
Riyadh’s Business Tourism
Growing MICE Sector
Riyadh’s emergence as a major business hub in the Middle East has significantly contributed to its tourism growth, particularly in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
The city has invested heavily in developing world-class facilities to host international conferences, including Future Initiative Forum in Riyadh and Cityscape Global Event, trade shows, and corporate events, attracting business travelers from around the globe.
The expansion of the MICE sector has had a direct impact on hotel occupancy rates, especially in the luxury segment. Furthermore, the business tourism sector often helps to balance out seasonal fluctuations in leisure travel, ensuring a more consistent demand for hotel rooms throughout the year.
Streamlining Hospitality Licensing
To support the rapid growth of the tourism sector, the Saudi Ministry of Tourism has implemented measures to streamline the process of licensing hospitality facilities.
By simplifying bureaucratic procedures and reducing barriers to entry, the government is encouraging investment in the hospitality sector and fostering healthy competition. The streamlined licensing process has several benefits:
- Faster approval times for new hotel projects and expansions
- Reduced administrative burden for hospitality businesses
- Increased diversity in accommodation options, from boutique hotels to large resorts
- Improved overall quality of services through easier implementation of industry standards
These efforts have contributed to the rapid expansion of Riyadh’s hotel capacity, enabling the city to accommodate the growing number of visitors and achieve the impressive occupancy rates we see today.
Riyadh’s Tourism Triumph
Riyadh’s impressive hotel occupancy rates underscore its growing appeal as a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers.
With ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Tourism to streamline hospitality services and a vibrant calendar of events, the city is set to solidify its position as a global hub for tourism, business, and culture in the years to come.
Hotels Opened on the Saudi Red Sea
Shebara Resort
Shebara, the latest luxury resort by Red Sea Global, is now welcoming reservations.
The resort boasts 73 exquisite overwater and beachfront villas, each offering breathtaking views of the Red Sea.
As the fourth resort to launch at this picturesque Red Sea destination, Shebara is the first to be directly managed by Red Sea Global.
Guests can conveniently access Shebara via a seaplane from the newly inaugurated Red Sea International Airport or with a 30-minute boat ride.
Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is now open for reservations on the stunning Ummahat Island in the Saudi Red Sea.
This impressive reserve, inspired by the shape of a shell, boasts 63 lavish villas with breathtaking ocean views. Guests can choose from 1 to 3 bedroom options and 18 exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded residences.
The resort also offers top-notch amenities like a diving center, fitness center, and various high-end restaurants. To reach the reserve, guests can take a chartered boat or seaplane from the recently launched Red Sea International Airport. Prices start at 9250 SAR per night.
Six Sense Southern Dunes
Six Sense Southern Dunes, The Red Sea was the first hotel to officially open in the Red Sea Project, with a special opening offer. This stunning resort offers 36 guest rooms and 40 pool villas situated against the backdrop of the Majestic Arabian Desert and Hijaz Mountains.
The resort combines visionary tourism with sustainability and heritage. Nestled in The Red Sea Destination, this resort is a testament to innovation, adventure, and a rich cultural legacy.
St. Regis Red Sea Resort
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort has officially opened to the public as the first private island resort along the stunning Saudi Red Sea coast.
Situated on the unspoiled Ummahat Island, the resort’s access is facilitated through chartered boat services or seaplane transportation from the recently established Red Sea International Airport.
Featuring a collection of 90 spacious overwater villas, including overwater and beachfront options equipped with exclusive private pools, the resort boasts various luxury offerings, including its renowned signature spa and five distinct dining venues.
Hotels Opening Soon on the Red Sea
Following the opening of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort and Najuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, other luxury resorts are set to open in the Red Sea, including Desert Rock Resort, Four Seasons AMAALA Triple Bay, Sheybarah Island Resort, and many more.
You can explore the new Red Sea Hotels list due to its being open here.
Red Sea Global and Marriott have partnered to launch The Ritz-Carlton, AMAALA at Triple Bay in 2025.
Designed by Foster + Partners, this luxury resort will feature 391 rooms, 80% boasting breathtaking views of the Red Sea, direct beach access, wellness amenities, and various outdoor activities.
Once open, The Ritz-Carlton, AMAALA is expected to be the largest property within the Red Sea destination.
Desert Rock Resort
The highly anticipated Desert Rock Resort, part of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Global megaproject, is nearing its grand opening, nestled among striking desert cliffs.
The resort will offer 50 luxurious villas and 10 guest rooms, all with breathtaking desert vistas, private pools, and a fitness center set amidst remarkable landscapes.
Desert Rock Resort seamlessly merges natural materials, embedding the resort into magnificent mountains to showcase Saudi Arabia’s awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA
Red Sea Global and Four Seasons are preparing to launch Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at AMAALA Triple Bay in Saudi Arabia.
Created by U+A, a global architecture and design studio, the resort will offer 220 rooms and suites, private pools, a lavish spa, and 26 branded villas that provide stunning views of the bay and sea.
Scheduled to open in 2025 as part of AMAALA’s first phase, this project highlights Four Seasons’ dedication to supporting Saudi Arabia’s expanding tourism sector.
Four Seasons Resort Red Sea
Red Sea Global, renowned for its ambitious regenerative tourism initiatives, has joined hands with Kingdom Holding Company to create the Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, which will be set on Shura Island, the main hub island of the Red Sea destination.
This luxury resort will feature 149 rooms, suites, and 31 residential properties and is expected to open to guests by early 2025.
The Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, with its luxurious offerings, is a testament to the shared vision of creating extraordinary destinations that drive economic growth and job creation and preserve precious ecosystems.
More New Hotel Developments in Riyadh
Hilton Riyadh Olaya’s Opening
Hilton has launched its luxurious Hilton Riyadh Olaya in the center of Riyadh along King Fahd Road.
The hotel boasts 239 upscale guest rooms with impressive city views and offers unique facilities along with a variety of dining options, including the Greek-inspired Parea Brasserie.
This new addition further expands Hilton’s portfolio of luxury properties in Riyadh.
Novotel Riyadh Sahafa Hotel
The new Novotel Riyadh Sahafa Hotel, located in the lively Al Sahafa district of Riyadh, has been opened by Accor for guests.
Hessa Al Mazroa, the first female General Manager in the country for Accor, leads the hotel, which is conveniently situated near the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and just 15 km from King Khalid International Airport.
With 232 luxurious and contemporary rooms and suites, a top-notch fitness center, an outdoor pool, a variety of dining options, and impressive views of Olaya Street, one of the bustling streets of Riyadh, the hotel is a prime destination for guests.
This marks Accor’s 9th Novotel property in Saudi Arabia as they continue to expand in the country.
Radisson Collection Residence Hotel
Radisson Hotel Group and Zamil Group have partnered to open of a five-star Radisson Collection Residence Hotel in Riyadh at the end of 2024.
This will mark the first Salmani architectural tower in Saudi Arabia, situated on the famous King Fahad Road.
The hotel is set to boast 170 luxurious rooms and suites, including 8 penthouses and 4 villas, as well as a rooftop swimming pool offering stunning views of the city.
This will be the 10th property of Radisson in Riyadh, in line with the city’s growing popularity as a global hub for both business and leisure.
Marriott W Riyadh
Marriott International and King Abdullah Financial District have reached an agreement to introduce the W Hotels brand to Riyadh’s KAFD.
The upcoming establishment, named W Riyadh, is set to launch in 2025 and will feature 210 lavish rooms and suites, as well as 7 diverse dining options and spacious event venues, including signature W brand areas such as the AWAY Spa and FIT fitness center.
This collaboration is in line with KAFD’s goal to become the most renowned and cutting-edge business district globally, which is currently housing Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and various multinational companies.
IHG and Regent Hotels Luxury Hotels in KAFD
IHG Hotels & Resorts will be expanding their presence in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) with the opening of two new luxury hotels – Regent Riyadh KAFD and InterContinental Riyadh KAFD by January 2027,
Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the stunning architecture of KAFD and dine at world-class restaurants in the world’s largest LEED-certified mixed-use business district when IHG’s first KAFD hotel, Kimpton at KAFD, opens later this year.
The Rotana Group Hotels
The Rotana Hotel Group has announced its plans to double its presence in Saudi Arabia by launching 8 new hotels within the Kingdom in the upcoming four years.
This announcement was made during the recent Saudi Tourism Forum held in Riyadh to expand to a total of 16 properties and 4,400 guest rooms. The growth plan encompasses the development of new hotels in Riyadh, Madinah, Khobar, and Al Baha.
These hotel developments will redefine luxury hospitality standards and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a leading global tourism destination.
Keep Reading: Hilton Officially Opens Its New Hilton Riyadh Olaya Hotel
