Collaboration Unleashed: Minor Hotels and Saudi Tourism Fund Redefine Hospitality

May 19, 2023

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Minor Hotels, a renowned hotel owner, operator, and investor with a vast global presence, has recently announced a groundbreaking partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund. This strategic collaboration aims to jointly develop and operate exceptional hospitality and lifestyle projects centred around mountain resorts, wellness retreats, and urban hotels within the Kingdom. The first project resulting from this venture will be unveiled in the second half of this year.

This partnership marks the establishment of an exclusive alliance between the two entities, focused on distinct regions in Saudi Arabia. Over the next few years, multiple visionary hospitality projects will be developed as part of this collaboration. Minor Hotels will serve as the operator and partner in each undertaking, with the projects expected to become prominent destinations in their respective locations. Among the group’s flagship brands that will feature in the projects are Anantara, Avani, Tivoli, and Oaks, established in mutually agreed-upon locations across Saudi Arabia. The development of these hotels and resorts aligns with the Kingdom’s National Tourism Strategy (NTS) and contributes to the realization of Saudi Vision 2030. Details regarding the targeted destinations in the National Tourism Strategy will be unveiled shortly.

Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund is crucial in supporting tourism investment in the Kingdom, effectively connecting private-sector investors with public funding opportunities. Established in 2020, the fund facilitates the harnessing of opportunities and funding development initiatives within Saudi Arabia’s tourism ecosystem and various tourism destinations.

One of the notable projects to emerge from this partnership will feature the luxury brand Anantara. Recognized for its experience-led and heartfelt hospitality in some of the world’s most stunning locations, Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, with its Thai roots, has already gained a strong presence in the GCC region, boasting over ten properties in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Qatar.

The dynamic Avani Hotels & Resorts brand, a vibrant and contemporary hotel chain prioritising style, value, and comfort, will also debut in the Kingdom through this strategic partnership. Multiple Avani properties will be developed as part of this collaboration, adding to the brand’s existing presence in the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Additionally, a property currently under development in Bahrain is scheduled for launch in 2024.

Furthermore, the partnership encompasses the development of properties within the Kingdom under other esteemed Minor brands, including Tivoli and Oaks. Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites, an industry leader in modern residential-style accommodations, provides a home away from home for corporate travellers and leisure tourists. The Oaks brand can be found in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, with plans for an upcoming launch in Egypt. Tivoli Hotels & Resorts, on the other hand, distinguishes itself through its unique and authentic experiences and exceptional service. Presently, the brand operates three hotels in Qatar, while new properties are under development in Bahrain and Oman.

Mr Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the memorandum of understanding with Saudi’s Tourism Development Fund, stating, “This collaboration signifies a significant milestone for Minor Hotels, enabling us to provide a wide range of products, ranging from experiential luxury to serviced apartments, each tailored to meet the needs of specific consumer niches. We eagerly anticipate working closely with the Tourism Development Fund to bring these projects to fruition and create iconic hospitality destinations within the Kingdom.”

Mr Qusai al Fakhri, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund, commented on the agreement: “This MOU and future partnership with Minor Hotels represent a significant step forward in making Saudi Arabia an appealing global tourism destination. We take pride in introducing Minor Hotels’ internationally recognized brands to the Kingdom, which will enhance the prestige of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.”

Through this groundbreaking partnership between Minor Hotels and the Tourism Development Fund of Saudi Arabia, the stage is set for developing extraordinary hospitality projects that will contribute to the growth and enhancement of the Kingdom’s tourism landscape.