Saudi Arabia emerges as Marriott International’s fastest-growing market in Middle East with over 100 properties set to open in 2025

SAUDI ARABIA – Saudi Arabia has become Marriott International’s fastest-growing market in the Middle East and one of the most dynamic globally, according to Karim Cheltout, Senior Vice President of Development for the Middle East & Africa at Marriott International.

The Kingdom’s rapid hospitality expansion reflects both the country’s ambitious Vision 2030 goals and Marriott’s strategic commitment to strengthening its presence in this vibrant market.

Currently, Marriott International operates 44 properties across Saudi Arabia, spanning a diverse portfolio of brands that cater to luxury, upscale, and select-service segments.

These hotels are located in key cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, serving a mix of leisure, business, and religious travelers.

The company’s offerings include flagship brands like The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Sheraton, and Courtyard by Marriott, each delivering world-class hospitality experiences aligned with Marriott’s global standards.

Looking ahead, Marriott has over 50 projects in active development throughout Saudi Arabia, which will more than double its current footprint and bring the total portfolio to over 100 properties by 2025.

This ambitious pipeline includes new hotels, resorts, and mixed-use developments, many of which are strategically positioned to capitalize on the Kingdom’s growing tourism, entertainment, and business sectors.

Karim Cheltout emphasized the significance of this growth, stating, “Saudi Arabia is a key market for Marriott International, driven by strong demand, government support, and the country’s evolving tourism landscape.”

“Our expanding portfolio reflects our confidence in the Kingdom’s future as a global hospitality hub and our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to travelers,” he added.

The surge in development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to diversify the economy, boost tourism, and create jobs.

Major infrastructure projects, including new airports, entertainment venues, and cultural attractions, are fueling demand for high-quality accommodations.

Marriott’s expansion supports these efforts by offering international standards of service and amenities that attract both regional and global visitors.

As Marriott International continues to deepen its presence in Saudi Arabia, the company is also investing in local talent development and sustainability initiatives, further embedding itself within the Kingdom’s hospitality ecosystem.

This growth trajectory positions Marriott as a leading hospitality partner in the Middle East’s fastest-evolving market.

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