Rafal Real Estate Development Company and Rove Hotels have entered into a strategic partnership to develop multiple Rove Hotels properties in Riyadh, marking the brand’s first entry into the Saudi Arabian market. The agreement was signed in Riyadh and forms part of a broader expansion strategy within the Kingdom.
The partnership will introduce Rove’s lifestyle hospitality concept to several high-growth areas of the Saudi capital. The first confirmed hotel will be located on Olaya Street, with additional sites to be announced at a later stage.
Expansion of Rove Hotels into Saudi Arabia
Rove Hotels was launched in Dubai as a joint venture between Emaar Properties and Dubai Holding. The brand currently has more than 8,000 hotel keys open or under development across the region. Its offering is centered on smart design, streamlined service, and a focus on sustainability.
Among its recent developments is the opening of Rove Al Marjan Island earlier this year. The Riyadh projects represent a significant geographic expansion for the brand as it moves into Saudi Arabia for the first time.
Saad Hussain of Alaia Developments said, “This expansion represents a significant milestone and an important step forward. We are proud to be part of Rove and Rafal in shaping a new chapter for lifestyle-driven hospitality in Saudi Arabia.”
Partnership and Market Context
Elias Abou Samra, Chief Executive Officer of Rafal Real Estate Development Company, said the company aims to introduce a well-established regional hotel concept to Riyadh. He further said, “Our confidence stems from the depth and track record of Rove Hotels in tailoring hospitality for regional guests, and from the strong connectivity between Riyadh and Dubai that underpins sustained demand from both leisure and business travelers.”
Paul Bridger, Chief Operating Officer of Rove Hotels, said the company selected Rafal as a partner due to its local expertise and execution record. He added, “We believe they are a great partner to launch the Rove brand in the Kingdom’s capital and are looking forward to bringing our blend of style, value, and convenience to Saudi Arabia’s vibrant and rapidly evolving hospitality landscape.”
The partnership aligns with Riyadh’s ongoing development under Saudi Vision 2030. The city is positioning itself as a global business and tourism hub, supported by large-scale infrastructure projects, expanding financial districts, and an increasing number of international events.
