IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global player in hospitality, has announced a management agreement with Knowledge Economic City (KEC) Co., a publicly listed company in Saudi Arabia, to develop two new hotels in the Islamic World District (IWD) of Al Madinah. These properties will add 1,057 keys to the holy city, reinforcing its status as a world-class destination for religious and cultural experiences.
Transforming Al Madinah through World-Class Hospitality
The new hotels, Holiday Inn & Suites IWD KEC (552 keys) and Holiday Inn Express IWD KEC (505 keys), are set to open in January 2029. Strategically located at the entrance of the Islamic World District and adjacent to the Al-Haramain High-Speed Railway station, these properties will serve as gateways for pilgrims and travellers visiting Al Madinah.
The Islamic World District, a key component of the Knowledge Economic City, is a transformative mixed-use development designed to enhance Al Madinah’s infrastructure and economy. Featuring hotels, residential areas, cultural attractions, and commercial spaces, the district aims to provide a seamless and enriched experience for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, as well as business travellers.
Cultural and Modern Design for a Premier Experience
Both hotels will be designed in a contemporary Najdi architectural style, blending modern aesthetics with Islamic cultural influences.
Holiday Inn & Suites IWD KEC: Offering a large all-day dining outlet and an open lobby lounge, this property caters to both leisure and business travellers.
Holiday Inn Express IWD KEC: Focused on providing streamlined, accessible, and value-conscious accommodations, ideal for religious pilgrims and budget travellers.
Guests at both hotels will have access to IHG One Rewards, the brand’s loyalty program offering benefits such as suite upgrades, lounge memberships, and extended check-outs through the IHG mobile app.
A Step Toward Vision 2030
This partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, emphasising the growth of the tourism and hospitality sectors. Speaking about the collaboration, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG, stated: “These properties are a significant addition to our portfolio, and we are honored to contribute to the development of Knowledge Economic City, catering to millions of religious and business travellers with exceptional amenities.”
Amin Shaker, Chairman, KEC, expressed: “This partnership highlights our commitment to enhancing Al Madinah’s hospitality offerings and aligns perfectly with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”
Mohammad Al Mubarak, CEO, KEC, added: “By partnering with IHG, we aim to set new benchmarks in innovation, accommodation, and guest experiences within the Holy City.”
IHG’s Growing Footprint in Saudi Arabia
IHG currently operates 43 hotels across six brands in Saudi Arabia, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, and Six Senses. With 44 additional properties in the pipeline, this collaboration with KEC further strengthens IHG’s commitment to the region. The development of these two properties underscores IHG’s role in shaping Al Madinah into a premier destination, enhancing its cultural and economic landscape while providing unparalleled hospitality services for travellers worldwide.
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