The Elaf Group of Companies, a leading tourism and hospitality group in Saudi Arabia, has announced the opening of two new hotels - the 'Al Bustan' and the 'Al Nakheel' - in Madinah offering a total of 279 new rooms.

The launch comes at a time when Saudi Arabia’s accommodation and hospitality sector is witnessing a significant growth with a 130 per cent jump in occupancy rates, said Elaf in a statement.

According to experts, the numbers are expected to rise as both the Hajj and Ummrah seasons are fast approaching.

In addition, the sector’s vibrant growth can be widely attributed to the healthy competition posed by leading international hotels present in the Kingdom, who have all expressed readiness in welcoming tourists visiting the country, particularly those going on pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah.

The expected influx of more tourists and visitors are complemented by the high numbers of confirmed bookings that were made through electronic services, said a top official.

'The opening of these two new hotels could not have come at a better time as these new facilities are expected to help address the demand for more hotel rooms in Al Madina, especially now that the peak season for pilgrimage is fast approaching,' remarked Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, the president of Elaf Group of Companies.

'In addition, the strategic locations of both the ‘Al Bustan’ and the ‘Al Nakheel,’ combined with their distinctive features and offerings, will help cater to the various needs of those visiting Madinah.'

'The launching of these new hotels also complements the government’s continuing initiative to promote tourism diversification and parallel development across all levels, including tourism for religious purposes,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service