voco Hotel and Suites Riyadh North is set to open its doors in 2026 as the next stride forward in IHG’s ambitious regional growth strategy for the premium brand.
Tall plans
The new 246-key, 29-floor hotel will be situated in a prime location at the centre of Riyadh; approximately 1.5 kilometres from King Abdullah Financial District and a 30-minute drive from King Khalid International Airport. It will serve the rising number of domestic and international travellers visiting the city for leisure as well as corporate guests looking to capitalise on business opportunities.
The property will feature seven fully equipped meeting rooms alongside four food and beverage options, including a specialty restaurant and a rooftop juice bar. Other amenities will include a swimming pool and a modern gymnasium.
New hotel need
Haitham Mattar, MD, India, Middle East and Africa, at IHG commented: “voco has seen remarkable success in the region, and we are pleased to bring another property in Saudi Arabia in partnership with Jurmaz Company. Riyadh is a juxtaposition of ancient wonders and a towering business district that makes it one of the largest and most popular hubs in the Kingdom.
“As per General Entertainment Authority (GEA), initiatives such as Riyadh Season attracted over 12 million visitors to the capital in just 90 days last year. These unprecedented numbers underline the need for new hotels and fresh, compelling guest experiences, in line with Vision 2030.”
He added: “This signing is a testament to our commitment to serve the Kingdom’s growing demand for world-class hospitality services, and we are confident that voco Hotel and Suites Riyadh North will deliver this and much more.”
Replicating appeal
Abdulaziz Al-Akeel, chairman of Jurmaz Hotels Company, said: “We are delighted to partner with IHG Hotels and Resorts to bring voco Hotel and Suites Riyadh North to the capital. IHG has deservedly gained international recognition for the enduring and unique appeal of its guest experiences.
“We are excited to play our part in replicating the same in Riyadh as the city continues to evolve, flourish and welcome new visitors from across the world.”
Rapid growth
As a lifestyle brand, voco offers a premium experience to guests, combining the informality and charm of an individual hotel with the quality and reassurance of a global hotel group. Since its launch in 2018, the lifestyle brand has enjoyed rapid growth with multiple signings across Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia.
IHG currently operates 38 hotels in Saudi Arabia across brands including: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, and voco with 33 hotels in the development pipeline.
Other vocos on the way within the country include two heading to Jeddah: voco Jeddah Gate, due to add 681 keys in the city this June, while the 145-room voco North Jeddah will follow in Q1 2024.
