Marriott and Blacksand to develop ten hotels in Saudi Arabia

International

Landmark agreement expands hospitality portfolio with more than 1,300 rooms by 2030

Marriott International and Saudi developer Blacksand have signed a long-term agreement to develop ten hotels across Saudi Arabia over the next four years. The projects, representing more than 1,300 rooms, will introduce a broad mix of luxury, premium, select-service and extended-stay brands while supporting the Kingdom's tourism and urban development strategy.

Multi-brand portfolio across the Kingdom

The agreement covers hotels under several Marriott International brands, including St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Hotels, Autograph Collection, Moxy Hotels, Courtyard by Marriott, Residence Inn by Marriott and Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy.

The portfolio is designed to combine internationally recognised hospitality brands with locally inspired concepts and distinctive guest experiences. The hotels will be developed in multiple cities across Saudi Arabia, with the first property expected to open in Riyadh.

“This agreement marks a defining milestone for Blacksand and reflects the scale of our ambition,” said Omar Alabdullatif, Chief Executive Officer of Blacksand. “Our collaboration with Marriott International brings globally recognised brands together and a shared commitment to creating exceptional hospitality offerings in the Kingdom. An agreement of this calibre is one that supports the shaping of the future of an already ambitious nation, and we are proud to be there setting the benchmark for quality, experience, and long-term value.”

Supporting Saudi Arabia's tourism ambitions

The hotel developments are currently in the design and early construction phases, with phased openings planned through to 2030. The partnership aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia's growing hospitality sector while expanding Marriott International's presence across the Kingdom.

“This landmark deal with Blacksand reflects Marriott's continued focus on diversifying our portfolio across Saudi Arabia to deliver meaningful hospitality experiences in line with the country's tourism priorities,” said Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “From immersive resort escapes and design-led stays to vibrant social hubs and extended-stay living, we look forward to introducing a range of experiences tailored to meet the evolving needs of travellers visiting the Kingdom.”

More than 6,000 jobs expected

Once completed, the ten hotels are expected to create more than 6,000 full-time jobs, with at least 60 percent of the positions allocated to Saudi nationals.

Both companies described the agreement as the foundation for a long-term partnership that will support future hospitality projects while contributing to Saudi Arabia's continued emergence as one of the world's fastest-growing tourism destinations.