The Rotana hotel expansion in Saudi Arabia will add 10 new properties to its portfolio, bringing its total target to 23 hotels across the Kingdom by 2027. This development represents 1,314 new keys in the country. Meanwhile, the hospitality group signed a strategic agreement with the Saudi Tourism Authority to boost local tourism.
Under this plan, the company is targeting key commercial, religious, and leisure corridors. Specifically, the new properties will expand the brand’s footprint into emerging destinations. Consequently, this growth aligns with the rising demand for diverse accommodation options across the Kingdom.
Details of the Rotana hotel expansion
The Rotana hotel expansion includes several distinct brands under the group’s management. For instance, Edge by Rotana properties will open in multiple Riyadh neighbourhoods and Jeddah’s historic Al Balad district. In addition, Arjaan Hotel Apartments and Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts will debut in Al Baha.
Furthermore, the group will introduce the Centro brand to Hail with the opening of Centro Hail. This specific project is developed in partnership with Alkhorayef Investment and Development Company and the Tourism Development Fund. As a result, the property will offer modern co-working spaces and social areas.
Strategic Partnership with Tourism Authority
The memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Tourism Authority establishes a framework for joint promotional efforts. Notably, the partners will collaborate on destination campaigns, digital connectivity, and loyalty program integration. This joint effort aims to attract international travelers to the country’s heritage sites.
According to Eddy Tannous, Chief Operating Officer of Rotana, Saudi Arabia is the fastest growing market for the group. He stated that the current pipeline reflects strong demand and a commitment to creating lasting value. Therefore, the partnership with the authority is a natural step to support local hospitality.
“Saudi Arabia is Rotana’s fastest growing market, and one of the most important in our portfolio. The pipeline we are confirming today reflects both the strength of demand and the depth of our commitment to growing here.”
Eddy Tannous, Chief Operating Officer of Rotana
Geographic Reach and New Destinations
Currently, the group operates 13 properties in major cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, Madinah, Makkah, Dammam, Al Khobar, and Jubail. However, the new pipeline focuses heavily on emerging regional hubs. This strategic shift helps the company capture domestic travel trends outside traditional gateways.
Additionally, the recent opening of Edge Riyadh Al Rabie marks the first of seven planned properties under a partnership with Memar Development and Investment Company. Makram El Zyr, Corporate Vice President of Development, stated that this collaboration drives meaningful growth. He added that each property is positioned with clear intention.
“Our pipeline of 23 hotels by 2027 reflects the depth of that conviction. Each property in our pipeline is positioned with intention, whether in an established commercial hub or an emerging destination.”
Makram El Zyr, Corporate Vice President of Development at Rotana
Tourism Growth in Saudi Arabia
This Rotana hotel expansion comes at a time of significant growth in the Saudi tourism sector. For example, the Ministry of Tourism reported that the Kingdom welcomed 122 million visitors in 2025. During this period, total tourism spending reached SAR 300 billion.
Moreover, domestic travel remains a major driver of the local economy. In the first half of 2025, domestic travelers represented 46.6 million of the total 60.9 million visitors. Consequently, regional cities like Abha, Hail, and Al Baha are seeing increased interest from residents.
Ultimately, the group’s development strategy aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which targets 150 million annual visitors. By expanding its portfolio, the company supports the national infrastructure needed to host these travelers. Meanwhile, the brand continues to strengthen its position in the Middle Eastern hospitality market.
