Plaza Premium airport lounges & services get $US100m boost

Plaza Premium Group has announced a strategic investment of US$100 million to expand its presence in the Middle East, with a major focus on Saudi Arabia. The funds will be allocated to opening world-class lounges, establishing a global airport concierge service with white-glove service, creating innovative dining outlets, and exploring opportunities for in-terminal hotels.

Plaza Premium Group, based in Hong Kong, specialise in “enhancing the travel experience” by providing a range of premium airport services. These include:

  • Airport Lounges: Offering comfort, convenience, and a premium experience for travellers, PPG operates luxurious airport lounges equipped with amenities such as comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and a variety of food and beverage options.
  • Airport Concierge Services: PPG provides personalised concierge services that assist with a range of traveller needs, from luggage handling to personal assistance, ensuring a seamless airport experience.
  • In-Terminal Hotels: Catering to transit passengers and those seeking rest during long layovers, PPG’s in-terminal hotels offer convenient, comfortable accommodations within the airport premises.
  • Dining Outlets: PPG creates innovative dining experiences within airports, offering travellers a variety of high-quality food and beverage options tailored to diverse tastes and preferences.

Having established a presence in the Middle East since 2014, PPG has developed a robust portfolio of airport lounges, hotels, and F&B outlets. The company currently operates in 15 locations across eight international airports within key regional cities, including Amman, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Dubai, and Muscat. PPG is currently present in 80 airports, across 30 countries and 250 locations.

With the Middle East tourism sector projected to grow approximately 7.7% annually until 2032, and Saudi Arabia investing over USD 100 billion to become a global aviation hub, PPG’s investment aims to establish a corporate presence in the Kingdom and support the company’s goal of expanding its global footprint to 500 locations by 2025. The targeted investment in the Middle East is part of the USD 300 million that PPG intends to invest globally over three years.

Song Hoi-See, Founder and CEO of Plaza Premium Group, highlighted the strategic importance of this investment: “This is an exciting time to invest in the Middle East, a region that exemplifies the future of travel and tourism. It’s rich in ancient culture yet embraces modernity, reflecting PPG’s ethos of innovation and growth alongside our travel partners.”

Deputy CEO Bora Isbulan has been appointed to lead this initiative. His role will include directing the Business Development, Commercial, and Marketing divisions, as well as forging robust alliances throughout the region. “I am thrilled to return to a region I know well. We are eager to increase our footprint in the Middle East, with a particular focus on the emerging opportunities in Saudi Arabia,” Isbulan remarked.

This expansion reinforces Plaza Premium Group’s promise to enhance travel experiences for the more than 20 million passengers it serves annually around the world.

Photos courtesy Plaza Premium