Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Jabal Omar Development Company (JODC), a leading developer in the Middle East, have announced plans for a new hotel in the holy city of Makkah.

Part of the Jabal Omar integrated real estate development, the Four Seasons Hotel Makkah will be located adjacent to Al-Masjid Al-Ḥarām (the Grand Mosque) and with direct access and unobstructed views of the Haram.

The hotel will be the company’s second location in Saudi Arabia, joining Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre.  

“As Four Seasons continues to expand its portfolio in the Middle East, we are pleased to partner with JODC to create a fully customised Four Seasons experience in Makkah,” said J. Allen Smith, president and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.  “Each Four Seasons is reflective of its destination and the people who stay with us, and this project in particular is designed to accommodate the unique needs of those who visit Makkah. This magnificent new building will set the stage for tailored service in a luxurious environment, enhancing the connection to this important place for all who visit.”

“Four Seasons will be the jewel in the Jabal Omar master development plan,” said Yasser Faisal Al-Sharif, CEO of Jabal Omar Development Company. “With our design partners and Four Seasons, we will bring to life a vision for the ultimate hospitality experience to enhance Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.”

Award-winning architectural firm Foster + Partners was chosen following an international design competition for this prestigious project. Impressive in appearance and deeply thoughtful in its concept, the multi-towered building atop a retail podium cascades down toward the Grand Mosque, seamlessly integrating its public spaces into the Haram.  An innovative design allows clear views of the Kaaba from every guest room and suite, each of which will feature one or more private prayer rooms. In total, there will be approximately 375 guest rooms and suites, plus approximately 90 Four Seasons Private Residences.

Additional features of the hotel include three restaurants and lounges, a ballroom and meeting rooms, and a spa and fitness centre.  The hotel will also offer special facilities and programs for families. - TradeArabia News Service