AlUla Development Company (UDC), a wholly owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has entered into a strategic agreement with Marriott International to open a new Autograph Collection hotel in AlUla. This exciting development, set to open in 2025, will be located in the heart of downtown AlUla, reinforcing the region’s growing prominence as a global travel destination.
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Details of the Agreement
The agreement was formalized in Riyadh, where Naif Al Hamdan, Managing Director of UDC, and Sandeep Walia, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East for Marriott International, signed the deal. This collaboration marks a key milestone in AlUla’s development, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 goals, particularly in enhancing the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Key Features of the Upcoming Hotel
The Autograph Collection hotel will be strategically located on a 22,635-square-meter plot in central AlUla, adjacent to the AlUla Museum and across from the Farmer’s Market. The hotel will feature 250 well-appointed rooms and suites, along with a variety of high-end recreational and entertainment facilities. Planned amenities include:
- Four distinct dining venues
- A luxury spa
- A swimming pool
- A state-of-the-art fitness center
- A business center and meeting facilities
- Retail spaces for shopping
With a focus on providing a unique and memorable guest experience, the hotel aims to reflect the rich cultural and historical heritage of AlUla while offering world-class services.
Strategic Goals and Vision
Naif Al Hamdan, Managing Director of UDC, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Marriott International to open an Autograph Collection hotel in AlUla. This collaboration aligns with our objective of enhancing the hospitality, tourism, and real estate sectors in AlUla and ensuring an unforgettable experience for our visitors. AlUla Development Company is committed to building on AlUla’s extraordinary heritage, history, and natural beauty through sustainable development, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification and tourism goals, in line with PIF’s strategy and Vision 2030.”
Marriott’s Perspective on the Partnership
Sandeep Walia, COO of Marriott International’s Middle East operations, commented, “We are delighted to work with AlUla Development Company to bring Autograph Collection Hotels to this exciting destination for global travelers. We look forward to building this relationship with UDC and continuing to support the growth of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia.”
Chadi Hauch, Regional Vice President for Lodging Development in the Middle East at Marriott International, added, “Autograph Collection Hotels feature curated properties that celebrate individuality, and AlUla is an ideal fit with its unique sense of place and history. We look forward to offering a distinct perspective on design and hospitality in this thriving area.”
About the Autograph Collection
Autograph Collection Hotels are known for their distinct character and individuality, with each property being hand-selected to reflect the vision of its founder. With over 290 hotels worldwide, the Autograph Collection brand is celebrated for offering immersive experiences and creating memorable moments that leave a lasting impression on its guests.
The new AlUla property will bring Marriott’s distinctive hospitality to the region while embracing the cultural richness and natural beauty that make AlUla a standout destination for travelers. This project is expected to further enhance AlUla’s position on the global tourism map, contributing to its long-term development and sustainability.
