IHG Partners with KEC to Develop Over 1,000 New Hotel Rooms in Al Madinah

IHG Hotels & Resorts has partnered with Knowledge Economic City (KEC) Co. to develop two new hotels in Al Madinah, Saudi Arabia. This agreement will add 1,057 rooms to the city’s hospitality sector, supporting its transformation into a world-class destination.

The new hotels are part of the Knowledge Economic City (KEC) project in Madinah, an initiative to improve the city’s infrastructure and economy. The project includes the Islamic World District (IWD), a mixed-use development that combines hotels, residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. The IWD is designed to become a major hub for visitors and residents, contributing to the city’s growth.

The Holiday Inn & Suites IWD KEC and the Holiday Inn Express IWD KEC, featuring 552 and 505 rooms, are slated to open in January 2029. Located near the entrance of the IWD and the Haramain train station, the hotels will be designed with a modern take on the traditional Najdi architectural style.

Haitham Mattar, IHG’s Managing Director for India, Middle East & Africa, expressed excitement over expanding in Al Madinah and contributing to the development of the Knowledge Economic City. The hotels will cater to the city’s religious pilgrims and business travelers, offering modern facilities in a traditional setting.

Amin Shaker, Chairman of Knowledge Economic City, acclaimed the partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts as a significant development for Al Madinah’s hospitality sector. He emphasized the role of the new hotels in enhancing the city’s reputation as a top travel destination. Mohammad Al Mubarak, CEO of Knowledge Economic City, echoed similar sentiments, praising the partnership with IHG for its commitment to quality and professionalism.

The Holiday Inn & Suites IWD KEC will feature an All-Day Dining outlet and an open lobby lounge catering to leisure and business travelers. The Holiday Inn Express IWD KEC will offer accessible and comfortable accommodations for religious pilgrims and value-conscious travelers. Both hotels will offer guests the benefits of IHG’s loyalty program, IHG One Rewards.

IHG operates 43 hotels across Saudi Arabia, with 44 more under development or planning.