Dur Hospitality, the Saudi grown hospitality company, and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) have announced the signing of a franchise agreement for Crowne Plaza Riyadh Palace.

Currently operating as Riyadh Palace Hotel, the property is expected to be rebranded to Crowne Plaza by June 2018.

Commenting on this, Ahdab, president of Hotel Operations Dur Hospitality, said: “We are delighted to partner with IHG yet again, for their world-class brand – Crowne Plaza, making this our second hotel with them, following the opening of Holiday Inn, Tabuk."

"Riyadh is home to more than 6 million people and has solidified itself as a commercial hub, attracting business travellers from domestic and international markets. As we embark on this endeavour, we continue to strategically work alongside distinguished partners in order to provide the best services to the industry coupled with authenticity and hospitable traditions,” he said.

“Incorporating an element of French design, the hotel is strategically located in the Ministries Quarter, a popular business district, making it an ideal and convenient location for the business community”, he further added.

The hotel comprises 304 rooms, over 1,400-sq-m of meetings space, a business centre along with an outdoor pool, Club Lounge, and a spa to rejuvenate and relax. It offers a range of authentic and contemporary cuisine at the hotel’s very own restaurant and at the Lobby Café.

Pascal Gauvin, managing director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “We value our partnership with Dur Hospitality and we look forward to expanding our presence in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia is a priority market for us, and this agreement is a representation of our intent to continue growing in the country and our commitment to our overall expansion plans in the Middle East. Given the government’s ambitious economic reform plan, Vision 2030, we anticipate an increase in demand for quality branded hotels in Saudi Arabia, and with 31 operational hotels and a robust development pipeline, we are confident of being able to cater to this demand."

The new agreement aligns with IHG strategy to grow the Crowne Plaza brand footprint across the Middle East and specifically in Saudi Arabia. IHG currently has seven operating hotels in Riyadh and 31 in Saudi Arabia. - TradeArabia News Service