Saudi Arabia

Smart Zone Hotel Company, a subsidiary of Taiba, has appointed Alsaad Contracting to deliver the 159-key Marriott hotel within Aqalat’s 120,732-square-metre stc Square development, a 12-building mixed-use complex integrating offices, retail, residential, and leisure spaces.

The agreement was sealed at the TOURISE Summit in Riyadh last week, with Tabarak CEO Ali Al Shorbany working closely alongside Minor’s Dillip Rajakarier.

Foster + Partners’ coral-inspired design blends seamlessly with the surrounding protected reefs, while neuroscience-driven interiors create restorative spaces that reduce jet lag through Timeshifter-based protocols.

Princess Haifa emphasized tourism’s importance in driving economic diversification, noting a 14% uptick in European arrivals and a 15% increase in visitors from East Asia–Pacific this year.

Domestic tourism continues to be a key driver, with spending exceeding SAR105 billion (approximately US$40 billion), reflecting an 18% increase by Q3 2025.

The service launched on December 2 and now operates four times a week—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

The partnership strengthens KEC’s internal capabilities in hospitality management while shaping a sustainable new brand across its portfolio.

It applies to diplomatic, special, and ordinary passports for tourism, business, or family visits, but excludes work, study, residency, or Hajj purposes.

Fanaya reflects the vibrancy of Saudi Arabia’s creative movement within a modern hospitality framework, meeting rising demand for lifestyle destinations grounded in community and culture.