Hilton has announced the signing of an agreement with Al-Gharaa International for Real Estate Development to develop three new hotels within the Islamic World District of Knowledge Economic City (KEC) in Madinah. The deal, signed in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, represents a significant step in Hilton’s expansion in Saudi Arabia.
The new agreement includes the debut of Hilton’s extended stay brand, Home2 Suites by Hilton, in the Middle East & Africa (MEA). It also features the introduction of two mid-market properties under the Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton brands. These projects will add 1,415 keys to Hilton’s growing portfolio in Saudi Arabia and align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal to elevate its hospitality sector and attract 150 million annual visitors by the end of the decade.
A partnership to enhance Madinah’s global status
Amin Shaker, chairman of Knowledge Economic City, expressed the strategic importance of this collaboration, stating: “Under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, we are committed to delivering developments that embody the spirit of Madinah as a global destination. Collaborating with Hilton allows us to partner with globally recognised brands that cater to the needs of our residents and visitors, reinforcing our commitment to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and positioning Madinah as a hub for religious tourism.”
Carlos Khneisser, vice president of Development, MEA, Hilton, added: “Saudi Arabia is our fastest-growing market in the region with more than 70 hotels in the pipeline. Expanding our partnership with Knowledge Economic City will meet the growing demand for world-class hospitality across all price points, delivering upscale and affordable accommodation for the thousands of families and visitors coming to the Holy City.”
Details of the new properties
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Madinah KEC Islamic World District
Marking the brand’s debut in the MEA region, this property will feature 283 guest rooms, including 209 king studio suites and 74 one-bedroom suites. Designed for longer stays, it will offer amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, complimentary breakfast, outdoor terraces, and a combined laundry and fitness centre. - Hilton Garden Inn Madinah KEC Islamic World District
Offering 732 guest rooms and suites, this hotel will cater to both business and leisure travellers with three flexible meeting rooms, a full-service restaurant, a juice bar, and a modern fitness centre. - Hampton by Hilton Madinah KEC Islamic World District
With 400 guest rooms, this property will bring Hampton’s signature warm service to Madinah. Guests will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a free hot breakfast, a lounge, a fitness centre, and a retail market for on-the-go snacks.
Supporting Vision 2030 with a growing portfolio
Mohammed bin Abdul Hamid Al Sheikh Mubarak, CEO of KEC, emphasised the importance of the project, stating: “This partnership represents a significant milestone in realising KEC’s vision to create a world-class destination that offers unmatched experiences to visitors and residents alike. Our collaboration with Hilton underscores our dedication to developing a dynamic Islamic World District that blends modern hospitality with the cultural and spiritual significance of Madinah.”
Hilton currently operates 20 hotels in Saudi Arabia and has plans to expand to over 100 properties in the coming years. In Madinah alone, eight hotels are under development, including the Hilton Madinah KEC Hub, which is currently under construction, and three properties as part of the Rua Al Madinah mega-project.
A significant boost for religious tourism
This latest partnership highlights the American hotel group’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, which is undergoing rapid transformation. The addition of these three properties in Madinah reflects the Kingdom’s ambition to position itself as a premier global destination, combining modern hospitality with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
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