Radisson Hotel Group Targets 150 Hotels by 2030: A Strategic Blueprint for Saudi Arabia’s Hospitality Boom

Amid Saudi Arabia’s dynamic hospitality transformation, Radisson Hotel Group is forging an ambitious path to expand its footprint while maintaining its signature commitment to guest excellence. At the helm of this endeavor is Ayman Ezzeddine, Director of Development for the Middle East, Egypt, and Pakistan at Radisson Hotel Group. With over a decade of leadership experience, Ezzeddine shares a compelling strategy that blends rapid growth with uncompromising brand standards, cementing Radisson’s pivotal role in the Kingdom’s tourism evolution.

Radisson’s growth strategy is built on a delicate balance of scalability and service consistency. With over 100 hotels currently operational or in development across the Middle East, the group aims to reach 150 by 2030, with Saudi Arabia as a key driver, hosting 47 properties either open or under construction. “We prioritize our ‘Yes I Can!’ service philosophy,” Ezzeddine notes, “while collaborating with developers who align with our ten-brand portfolio to deliver impactful, high-quality projects.” This approach ensures that expansion enhances, rather than dilutes, the guest experience—a cornerstone of Radisson’s global identity.

Saudi Arabia’s goal of adding 320,000 hotel rooms by 2030 offers fertile ground for growth, and Radisson is strategically positioning itself across both primary and emerging markets. Ezzeddine points to secondary cities like Al Ahsa, Hail, Tabuk, and Jazan as untapped opportunities, fueled by government investments in infrastructure and industrial zones. Radisson’s response includes agile, conversion-ready properties tailored to these markets’ needs. In Riyadh, the group is crafting a diverse portfolio, from the opulent Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel, to the forthcoming Radisson Collection Residence Riyadh, slated for opening later this year. Jeddah mirrors this multi-faceted strategy, catering to both business and leisure travelers, while Makkah and Madinah see mid-scale additions like Park Inn and Radisson, strategically placed to serve the pilgrimage economy. The upcoming Radisson RED in Diriyah, a lifestyle-focused property, taps into the Kingdom’s burgeoning leisure tourism, aligning seamlessly with national tourism objectives.

Partnerships form the backbone of Radisson’s expansion. A recent Memorandum of Understanding with the Saudi Tourism Authority, signed at the Arabian Travel Market, amplifies the ‘Visit Saudi’ brand through Radisson’s global platforms and joint campaigns celebrating the Kingdom’s cultural richness. Another collaboration with Knowledge Economic City in Madinah is shaping a mixed-use Islamic World District, anchored by a Park Inn by Radisson. “These alliances extend beyond development,” Ezzeddine emphasizes. “They support Vision 2030 by creating jobs, preserving heritage, and promoting sustainability.” With 70% of Radisson’s owners managing multiple properties, the group leverages these relationships to foster clustered developments, boosting profitability and market synergy.

As the Kingdom strives to generate one million tourism jobs, Radisson is nurturing Saudi talent through targeted programs. The ABJAD initiative, or “A Brilliant Journey of Advanced Development,” prepares Saudi nationals in supervisory roles for leadership positions through a blend of coaching, self-learning, and hands-on training. Its first graduates are poised to lead Radisson’s expanding portfolio. Complementing this, the Concierge Navigation to Success (NTS) program, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, trains young Saudis in concierge services over six months, blending classroom learning with practical placements. “These programs empower Saudis to drive the future of hospitality,” Ezzeddine affirms, underscoring their role in elevating guest experiences and career opportunities.

In a crowded market, Radisson stands out by merging global expertise with local adaptability. Its ten-brand portfolio, spanning luxury Radisson Collection to vibrant Radisson RED, offers investors unparalleled versatility. Bolstered by a seasoned local team, advanced tools like Pulse by RHG, and a robust history of conversions and new builds, Radisson ensures agility and resilience. “Our five-year plan is designed to deliver speed and superior returns,” Ezzeddine states, highlighting the group’s competitive edge.

Reflecting on Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector, Ezzeddine marvels at its scale and state-led momentum. With 100 million tourists in 2023 and a target of 150 million by 2030, the Kingdom is redefining hospitality through giga-projects and immersive experiences. “Guests demand wellness, entertainment, and cultural connection,” he observes. Radisson responds with tailored developments, from lifestyle-driven properties to pilgrimage-focused accommodations, while forging strong ties with government and tourism bodies to lead the sector’s transformation.

As Radisson Hotel Group races toward its 2030 target, its Saudi strategy exemplifies ambition, innovation, and authenticity. Through strategic partnerships, talent development, and bespoke guest experiences, Radisson is not only shaping the Kingdom’s hospitality landscape but also setting a global standard for sustainable, impactful growth.