Renz agrees, and adds: “The trend that we are seeing in KSA currently focuses on a luxury experience. This includes everything from perfect culinary offerings to exclusive gifts and experiences to the most luxurious and spacious suites and apartments.”

Ascott Tahlia is the first serviced residence in Jeddah to receive a five-star rating from the Saudi Tourism board. Having recently opened in September 2015, Vincent Miccolis, area manager, Ascott Limited — GCC reports: “We are receiving enquiries that surpass our expectations from multi-national companies that have staff staying for longer periods of time that are engaging in project style work.”

While religious and business tourism remain the main source of business, and efforts are being made to diversify, challenges still need to be overcome according to Alzaabi: “The international MICE and leisure markets could be improved — we need more relaxed visa processes to allow international exhibitors and tourists to plan their events and trips more effectively.”

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Adding to the MICE potential is the opening of the Fairmont Riyadh, Business Gate next year, which offers a 4000m2 convention centre, including two ballrooms, which can accommodate up to 600 guests each as well as 11 meeting rooms.

Food and beverage is also a key consideration for hotels and Jeddah’s corniche provides an excellent location to develop the dining scene from signature, upscale restaurants to popular brands. Similarly, high profile developments, such as Kingdom City, are expected to boost corporate and leisure demand north of Jeddah, making Obhur a more attractive destination. This indicates the opportunity to develop branded resorts in Obhur, catered to the growing leisure market.

Sami Nasser has also seen a strong F&B focus, reporting: “Branded restaurants, novel concepts and casual dining is on the rise as residents enjoy higher disposal income, global exposure to restaurant brands and limited sources of entertainment. Fairmont Riyadh Business Gate will offer a wide range of food and beverage options, positioning the hotel as a leader in innovative offerings in the market.”

It’s clear that Saudi Arabia is a business hub attracting both regional and international players — as a result, the hospitality landscape, while certainly facing challenges, is dynamic and is rapidly developing to accommodate the growing demand.