Hotel major IHG eyes Saudi talent to fuel expansion plan in the kingdom

With a current pipeline of 28 hotels, IHG said it plans to add over 10,000 rooms to the kingdom’s supply in the next 2-3 years.

With more high-profile signings expected in the coming months, this number is set to increase significantly, the operator said in a statement.

Last year, IHG announced close to 10 signings hotels across brands such as Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels & resorts, Crowne Plaza and Hotel Indigo, which was a brand debut in the country.

Additionally, the company is expected to open a further 10 hotels in Saudi Arabia this year.

IHG said it will also be bringing more global brands to Saudi Arabia including Regent and Kimpton, both luxury hospitality brands.

The company added that it is complementing its Saudi plans with a “strong talent agenda”, with a focus on hiring and developing Saudi talent.

IHG is working with the Ministry of Human Capital development to develop the hospitality talent pool in the kingdom, said Haitham Mattar, managing director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG.

He added: “Our growth over the last year is testament to our commitment to investing in the hospitality sector and developing local talent to showcase true Saudi hospitality to guest coming to the country from across the world.

“In line with the Tourism Development Strategy, we will continue to bring our brands to various locations within the country, as we commit to introducing new hospitality experiences and further cement our role as a member of the Saudi community.”

He said IHG is working to roll out its full portfolio in destinations ranging from Riyadh, Jeddah and Makkah to emerging destinations such as Al Khobar, Abha and Dammam.

As further a mark of confidence in Saudi economic development, IHG opened its Saudi headquarters in 2020 in Riyadh.

IHG currently operates 36 hotels across five brands in Saudi Arabia with a further 28 hotels in the development pipeline due to open within the next three to five years.