New Marriott Autograph Hotel Will Be Built in Riyadh

Following an agreement signed by Saudi Real Estate Co., also known as Al Akaria, plans have been announced for a new Marriott Autograph hotel in Riyadh — the first hotel of the renowned luxury brand to open in the Kingdom’s capital. Part of a mixed-use development featuring commercial facilities, restaurants, entertainment areas, and accommodation, the 280-key luxury hotel will begin construction in 2025, aiming to welcome visitors by 2028.

“We are confident that this collaboration will set new standards in luxury hotel hospitality in the region.” Ibrahim Al-Alwan, CEO of Al Akaria Real Estate Co., tells SceneTraveller.

The rapid expansion of Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry continues to introduce new spots for rest and relaxation across the Kingdom. In December 2023, Marriott International announced the commencement of construction for a new Ritz-Carlton hotel in the historic town of Diriyah, already home to several world-class venues, including the Layali Diriyah pop-up shopping district. Later on, in 2023, Marriott signed an agreement with Saudi-based Sela Sport to develop two new luxury hotels in the country. Additionally, Singapore’s Raffles Hotels & Resorts is set to develop a hotel in NEOM’s mountain destination, Trojena, alongside a W Hotel and a JW Marriott facility.

As the new decade approaches, Saudi Arabia’s vision 2030 continues to accelerate the country’s rapid growth in multiple sectors, not least through their push for international tourism. This effort aims to diversify the economy away from the Kingdom’s reliance on oil resources.