Courtyard by Marriott Enters Saudi Arabia with Riyadh Hotel Opening

• Celebration marks Courtyard brand's fourth property in its Middle East portfolio
• 286-room property is set to contribute to Marriott International's expansion within the select service segment

DUBAI, UAE – On Saturday, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) celebrated the opening of the Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter with a variety of on-site celebrations. Courtyard by Marriott, the world's 11th largest hotel brand, already has a strong footprint in the region with properties in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman Al-Meqbel, Mayor of Riyadh participated in the official opening celebrations which included associates, VIP customers and a number of dignitaries from the diplomatic corps stationed nearby.

The new hotel appeals to travellers looking for a prime location close to the Diplomatic Quarter. At the Arabian Travel Market in the United Arab Emirates last week, Marriott International announced that it is putting emphasis on expansion in the region through the Courtyard, Residence Inn and Marriott Executive Apartments brands. These developments are taking place in response to customer demand and regional travel trends.

"We're thrilled by the continued expansion of our lodging portfolio in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to participate in the economic development of the Diplomatic Quarter," said Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director - Marriott International Middle East and Africa. "Tourism in the Kingdom has strong growth potential with an average increase of 6.5 per cent year-over-year projected through 2014. We're confident that this hotel will continue to be successful because of its ability to cater for a variety of clientele and its superb location adjacent to the Diplomatic Quarter."

Farhan Lone, General Manager of the Courtyard Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter adds, "Situated in a very key location in Riyadh, I am delighted to welcome travelers from around the world. I look forward to hosting guests at our contemporary café that offers all day dining and showing off the state-of-the-art lobby featuring free WIFI access. We also have a modern, fully equipped fitness center with an indoor pool and whirlpool which will keep them refreshed during their stay."

Courtyard understands business travelers, and, through extensive research, the brand continues to evolve to meet guests' changing needs. Combining innovative technology with style and comfort, the adaptable lobby space offers options so guests can make the most of their time on the road. Intuitive services accommodate guests' desire for choice and control and allow them to use the public space and guest rooms to meet all of their needs while on the road.

Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 3,800 properties in 74 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $12 billion in fiscal year 2012. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands.

Courtyard by Marriott offers a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced. Intuitive services and design accommodate guests' needs for choice and control. With more than 900 locations in 38 countries and territories, Courtyard hotels participate in the award-winning Marriott Rewards® frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information or reservations, call the Courtyard toll-free number at 800-321-2211FREE, visit www.courtyard.com, become a fan at www.facebook.com/courtyard or follow Courtyard at twitter.com/courtyardhotels.