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An Unstoppable Growth in the Middle East: Focus on Accor’s Strategic Expansion in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar

Accor is proud to have participated to the Future Hospitality Summit, which returned to Saudi Arabia this year, bringing together the Kingdom’s leading industry experts. From 2022 to 2032, the growth rate in the GCC’s tourism sector is projected to be 13.6% with a potential market value of 65.5 billion USD. Accor, firmly rooted in the Middle East, responds to the dynamic shifts in travel preferences and consumer needs, seamlessly adapting to...

Accor

Accor is proud to have participated to the Future Hospitality Summit, which returned to Saudi Arabia this year, bringing together the Kingdom’s leading industry experts. From 2022 to 2032, the growth rate in the GCC’s tourism sector is projected to be 13.6% with a potential market value of 65.5 billion USD. Accor, firmly rooted in the Middle East, responds to the dynamic shifts in travel preferences and consumer needs, seamlessly adapting to expectations in this thriving market, such as sustainable travel, family-friendly all-inclusive experiences, bleisure, staycations. With a focus on Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, a strong brand presence and a commitment to empowering local talent, Accor is strategically positioned to solidify its leadership and continue to accelerate growth in this part of the world.

In the coming years, we want to continue to solidify our leadership across this dynamic region, strengthen the footprint of our brands and work toward our ambition of developing the largest and best-performing integrated hospitality ecosystem in the industry. We prioritize strong partnerships with our owners, and our bespoke approach to development projects ensures we can match our partners with the right brands.

Duncan O’Rourke, CEO Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific, Premium, Midscale & Economy Division, Accor

We continue to see great momentum in this part of the world and anticipate sustained growth in the Middle East region for many years to come. As a result, we are accelerating Accor’s growth strategy throughout the region in partnership with our development partners and owners. Our bespoke approach to luxury and lifestyle development projects ensures we can align our partners with the right brands in the right destinations, boldly redefining hospitality in ways that are positive for people and the planet.

Agnès Roquefort, Global Chief Development Officer, Luxury & Lifestyle Division, Accor

Focus on: Saudi Arabia

In line with Saudi Vision 2030, Accor is deeply rooted in building the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia, continuing to play a key role in developing tourism and accelerating growth.

Positioned as the largest operator in the Kingdom, Accor offers a portfolio of 41 operating hotels spanning from luxury to economy, and Ennismore's lifestyle collective. Embracing an ambitious growth trajectory, Accor is set to add over 45 hotels to its roster by 2030, solidifying its leadership across all segments. Having operated in Saudi Arabia for over three decades, Accor continues to embark on new ventures. Expanding our footprint is a priority, particularly in the burgeoning second wave cities of the country. Through a master development agreement with Amsa Hospitality, we are poised to develop our midscale, and economy brands in these fast-growing locales. Over the next decade, this partnership will facilitate the development and franchising of 18 Accor hotels across various cities with the first property signed, Mercure Khamis Mushayt in Aseer.

Also, the introduction of exciting new brands such as TRIBE and Handwritten and the expansion of lifestyle offerings within giga projects are great opportunities ahead and underline Accor's commitment to pioneering hospitality experiences. Other exciting opportunities include The Red Sea, AlUla and NEOM. At The Red Sea development, Accor is set to launch an extraordinary lineup of brands including Raffles, Fairmont, Faena and Ennismore’s SLS, delivering iconic and unique luxury and lifestyle experiences on 200 kilometers of untouched coastline. In the Diriyah Gate master development, Accor will also open properties under the brands of Orient Express, Raffles, and Faena. The growth of the iconic Raffles brand in key Saudi cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Diriyah Gate, along with the recently announced Trojena slated for 2027, further exemplifies Accor's dedication to elevating the hospitality landscape.

Moreover, with the strategic partnership between Accor and the Ministry of Tourism, exemplified through "Tamayyaz by Accor," 256 Saudi talents are empowered, underscoring Accor's unwavering commitment to fostering local talent and inclusion within the industry.

Focus on: the United Arab Emirates

In 2022, the UAE emerged as the second fastest-growing destination for international arrivals, a concrete proof of its continuous innovation and evolution in the global tourism landscape. With Dubai as a premier destination, the UAE remains at the forefront of international attractiveness, consistently pioneering sustainable and responsible tourism initiatives while capitalizing on the growing trend of blended travel experiences.

Accor, a key player in this dynamic environment, demonstrates leadership and dynamic growth. Significant achievements include the opening of the first Pullman resort on Al Marjan Island in early February, alongside the introduction of iconic brands such as Banyan Tree and SO/ last year. With a keen eye on emerging trends, Accor is making significant strides in Dubai, particularly in the realm of lifestyle branded residential offerings.

As the UAE continues to transform global tourism, Accor's commitment to innovation and trend-conscious strategies solidifies its position as a driving force in the hospitality industry locally.

Focus on: Qatar

With the Qatar National Vision 2030 providing a strategic framework, Accor is committed to delivering unparalleled hospitality experiences that not only enrich our portfolio but are also emblematic for Qatar.

Accor's dynamic presence in Qatar is highlighted by key developments, including the opening of iconic properties such as Raffles and Fairmont Doha at the end of 2022, along with the introduction of innovative concepts like Accor Living Adventure tailored for the World Cup to discover the amazing lifestyle and culture of Qatar. Furthermore, Accor's collaboration with Rixos Gulf to introduce the first all-inclusive resort in Doha further solidifies its commitment to redefining luxury and service standards in the region to always create an elevated brand experience for our guests.

In the dynamic landscape of Qatar, Accor stands at the forefront of hospitality excellence, leveraging the momentum of the FIFA World Cup 2022 to elevate the country's attraction on the global stage. From the first World Cup hosted in the Arab world, to the first AFC Asian Cup this year staged in Saudi Arabia, these major events serve as catalysts to showcase Qatar's evolution into an international destination.

As Qatar embraces its role as a global destination, Accor remains persistent in its mission to bring unforgettable experiences to residents and travelers alike.

Accor and the Middle East: a Winning Combination

Accor currently counts 275 properties across all brands in the Middle East with 111 properties in the pipeline, including branded residences and immersive resorts. With a strong potential for luxury & lifestyle and branded residences, Accor is ready to fully leverage this potential.

Accor's dynamic growth and visionary role are reshaping the Middle East's thriving tourism landscape. Committed to excellence, we are more than ready to deliver the highest level of guaranteed quality, complemented by our diverse portfolio of brands. As we continue to evolve, Accor remains dedicated to providing optimal hospitality tailored to each city's unique environment, solidifying our position as a leader in the Middle East's hospitality sector.

Development Development Markets & Performance
Accor
Hotel GroupManagement CompanyFranchise OrganizationBrand Owner

Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering stays and experiences across more than 110 countries with over 5,600 hotels and resorts, 10,000 bars & restaurants, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing around 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore.

So/
Brand by Ennismore

A vivid cocktail of luxury, sophistication and style. An audacious burst of local energy with an unmistakable playful twist. An edge that sets the experience apart. Fashionable and social, it’s the place to be and be seen, connecting the like-minded. Each SO/Sofitel hotel is imagined and created through an artful collaboration with a renowned fashion signature designer.

Orient Express
Brand by Accor

Orient Express Hotels is an ultra-luxury hospitality brand inspired by the legendary 19th-century train that epitomized the golden age of travel. Revived by Accor, the brand combines heritage, craftsmanship, and immersive storytelling across a growing collection of hotels, trains, and yachts. Its first modern property, La Minerva in Rome, opened in 2025, with others like Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice to follow.

TRIBE
Brand by Ennismore

From Perth to Paris, the TRIBE hotels bring a bold new energy to locations across the globe. Born in Australia in 2017, as the vision of Mark and Melissa Peters, TRIBE was created in response to the knowledge that today more than ever, travelers crave design hotels at affordable prices. Defined by how people want to live and travel, TRIBE focuses on the things that really matter: intelligent, functional, design-driven hotels that give our...

Handwritten Collection
Brand by Accor

In January 2022, Accor announced an exciting new addition to the Group’s unparalleled network of brands: Handwritten Collection, a global portfolio of charming bespoke hotels that offer an intimate and stylish hospitality experience. Accor already has over 110 Handwritten leads globally totaling more than 11,500 rooms, including 12 secured signings, with five properties expected to debut throughout the first trimester of 2023.

Pullman
Brand by Accor

Pullman hotels and resorts welcome international, cosmopolitan seasoned travelers from all over the world for business and leisure stays. Pullman is the executive lifestyle upscale hotel brand: a new generation of hotels for a new generation of mobile, hyper-connected customers. Pullman’s warm, expert welcome and customized offers and services provide its guests with an innovative, efficient hotel experience whether they are staying for...

Mercure
Brand by Accor

Mercure is the only midscale hotel brand that combines the strength of an international network with a strong quality commitment, and the warm experience of hotels, all different, rooted in their local community and managed by enthusiastic hoteliers. Located in city centers, by the sea or in the mountains, the Mercure network welcomes business and leisure travelers across the world.

Fairmont
Brand by Accor

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is where occasions are celebrated and history is made. Landmark hotels with unrivalled presence, authentic experiences and unforgettable moments have attracted visitors to Fairmont and its destinations since 1907. The Plaza in New York City, The Savoy in London, Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai are but a few of these iconic luxury hotels, forever linked to the...

SLS
Brand by Ennismore

SLS is crafted with the luxury and excellence of a grand hotel, and delivered with a mischievous wink and a sexy little smile. It’s the home of lavish and extraordinary experiences coupled with a playful ambiance. Culinary artistry, theatrical interiors, subversive design touches and unexpected indulgences are at the heart of every SLS property.

Raffles
Brand by Accor

Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both...

Rixos
Brand by Accor

Rixos Hotels, established in 2000, is one of the world’s fastest growing, luxury hotel chains. Dedicated to offering traditional Turkish hospitality and a unique spa experience in the finest surroundings and luxury ambience, the Antalya based group currently owns and operates 7 premium resorts & villas and 5 city hotels in countries as diverse as Turkey, Croatia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and Libya.

25hours
Brand by Ennismore

25hours Hotels is part of Ennismore, a creative hospitality company rooted in culture and community, with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Ennismore is a joint venture with Accor, formed in 2021. Christoph Hoffmann, Kai Hollmann, Ardi Goldman and Stephan Gerhard were the founders and creative minds behind the 25hours brand, that today operates 15 hotels in German speaking...