Latest news with #GuyHutchinson
Zawya
30-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Hilton set to hit 100 hotels milestone in Saudi Arabia
Global hospitality major Hilton has announced that it is on track to operate and pipeline 100 hotels in Saudi Arabia this year – reaffirming its long-term commitment to growth across the kingdom. The global hospitality company continues to introduce more of its award-winning brands to the country, with 14 brands trading and in the pipeline, it stated. Hilton said as part of its growth strategy, it is set for multiple new signings with plans to add more than 21,000 rooms in locations across the country. The new signing marks the debut of Hilton's premium economy brand, Spark by Hilton, in the Middle East and Africa. Since its launch in 2023, Spark by Hilton has been at the forefront of innovation and is uniquely positioned to grow and scale quickly. Offering a simple, inspired design, comfortable guest rooms and a complimentary breakfast, the conversion-friendly, premium economy brand delivers reliable essentials and friendly service for every guest at an accessible price point. Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, Hilton said: "Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and we are proud to be playing a leading role in it becoming a top global tourism destination. The kingdom offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and modern lifestyle developments." "Our diverse portfolio – spanning luxury and lifestyle, through to premium economy and midscale brands – will help broaden the appeal for today's discerning travellers. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, our growing hotel pipeline is set to generate over 15,000 job opportunities, with a significant focus on employing Saudi nationals," he stated. Commenting on Hilton's momentum in the kingdom, Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said: "We are excited about reaching 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia, as we continue to diversify our footprint and introduce more of our global brands across both established and emerging destinations." "Our continued partnership with Al Musbah Group is testament to this growth and our commitment to supporting private sector development in the Saudi tourism industry. We are proud to have Al Musbah Group as part of our highly valued ownership community and to be working with them to introduce the region's first Spark by Hilton in Makkah," he stated. "With two-thirds of our pipeline in Saudi Arabia already under construction, we look forward to continuing our work with new and existing owners to deliver more hotels at all price points for guests across the kingdom," he added. Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah is set to open later this year, marking the brand's debut in the MEA region. The 329-guest room property will offer twin-bed and triple-bed guest rooms. Located to the east of Masjid Al Haram in Makkah's Aziziyah district, near the religiously significant area of Mina, a key site during Hajj with direct train access to Arafat, the hotel is ideally situated to serve pilgrims. The site is surrounded by commercial outlets and hotels that cater to religious travellers year-round. Developed by Al Musbah Group, Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah is one of several Hilton projects underway with the group across Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam, it stated. "Spark by Hilton adds to Hilton's growing midscale presence across established and up-and-coming cities in the Kingdom, complementing existing brands such as Hampton by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn, which together account for one-third of the company's hotel pipeline," remarked Khneisser. Recent signings include Hampton by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn properties in Jeddah, Jizan, and Abha, as well as at the NEOM Community site. In Makkah, Hilton is partnering with Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction Company to open the world's largest Hilton Garden Inn, featuring 1,560 guest rooms. Hilton has also partnered with Knowledge Economic City (KEC) to open the region's first Home2 Suites by Hilton in the Middle East in Madinah, alongside properties under the Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton brands, he added. According to him, Hilton continues to bolster its luxury presence across the kingdom with its iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and Conrad Hotels & Resorts brands. These include a multi-property agreement at The Avenues - Riyadh, the Kingdom's largest mixed-use development, which will be home to a Waldorf Astoria and a Conrad, as well as a Waldorf Astoria in Diriyah Gate – one of Saudi Arabia's iconic giga-projects, and Madinah's first Waldorf Astoria. The company has also partnered with Rua Al Madinah Holding to open three hotels in the holy city including a luxury property under the Conrad Hotels & Resorts brand, as well as with Dan Co, a PIF subsidiary, to open an LXR agritourism resort in Al Ahsa. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Trade Arabia
29-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Hilton set to hit 100 hotels milestone in Saudi Arabia
Global hospitality major Hilton has announced that it is on track to operate and pipeline 100 hotels in Saudi Arabia this year – reaffirming its long-term commitment to growth across the kingdom. The global hospitality company continues to introduce more of its award-winning brands to the country, with 14 brands trading and in the pipeline, it stated. Hilton said as part of its growth strategy, it is set for multiple new signings with plans to add more than 21,000 rooms in locations across the country. The new signing marks the debut of Hilton's premium economy brand, Spark by Hilton, in the Middle East and Africa. Since its launch in 2023, Spark by Hilton has been at the forefront of innovation and is uniquely positioned to grow and scale quickly. Offering a simple, inspired design, comfortable guest rooms and a complimentary breakfast, the conversion-friendly, premium economy brand delivers reliable essentials and friendly service for every guest at an accessible price point. Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, Hilton said: "Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and we are proud to be playing a leading role in it becoming a top global tourism destination. The kingdom offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and modern lifestyle developments." "Our diverse portfolio – spanning luxury and lifestyle, through to premium economy and midscale brands – will help broaden the appeal for today's discerning travellers. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, our growing hotel pipeline is set to generate over 15,000 job opportunities, with a significant focus on employing Saudi nationals," he stated. Commenting on Hilton's momentum in the kingdom, Carlos Khneisser, Vice President, Development, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said: "We are excited about reaching 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia, as we continue to diversify our footprint and introduce more of our global brands across both established and emerging destinations." "Our continued partnership with Al Musbah Group is testament to this growth and our commitment to supporting private sector development in the Saudi tourism industry. We are proud to have Al Musbah Group as part of our highly valued ownership community and to be working with them to introduce the region's first Spark by Hilton in Makkah," he stated. "With two-thirds of our pipeline in Saudi Arabia already under construction, we look forward to continuing our work with new and existing owners to deliver more hotels at all price points for guests across the kingdom," he added. Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah is set to open later this year, marking the brand's debut in the MEA region. The 329-guest room property will offer twin-bed and triple-bed guest rooms. Located to the east of Masjid Al Haram in Makkah's Aziziyah district, near the religiously significant area of Mina, a key site during Hajj with direct train access to Arafat, the hotel is ideally situated to serve pilgrims. The site is surrounded by commercial outlets and hotels that cater to religious travellers year-round. Developed by Al Musbah Group, Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah is one of several Hilton projects underway with the group across Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam, it stated. "Spark by Hilton adds to Hilton's growing midscale presence across established and up-and-coming cities in the Kingdom, complementing existing brands such as Hampton by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn, which together account for one-third of the company's hotel pipeline," remarked Khneisser. Recent signings include Hampton by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn properties in Jeddah, Jizan, and Abha, as well as at the NEOM Community site. In Makkah, Hilton is partnering with Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction Company to open the world's largest Hilton Garden Inn, featuring 1,560 guest rooms. Hilton has also partnered with Knowledge Economic City (KEC) to open the region's first Home2 Suites by Hilton in the Middle East in Madinah, alongside properties under the Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton brands, he added. According to him, Hilton continues to bolster its luxury presence across the kingdom with its iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, LXR Hotels & Resorts, and Conrad Hotels & Resorts brands. These include a multi-property agreement at The Avenues - Riyadh, the Kingdom's largest mixed-use development, which will be home to a Waldorf Astoria and a Conrad, as well as a Waldorf Astoria in Diriyah Gate – one of Saudi Arabia's iconic giga-projects, and Madinah's first Waldorf Astoria.
Arab News
17-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Hilton to hit 100-hotel milestone in Saudi Arabia
Hilton is set to hit the milestone of 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia this year — reaffirming its long-term commitment to growth across the Kingdom. The global hospitality company continues to introduce more of its award-winning brands to the country, with 14 brands trading and in the pipeline, and has announced multiple new signings with plans to add more than 21,000 rooms in locations across the country. Guy Hutchinson, president, Middle East and Africa, Hilton said: 'Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and we are proud to be playing a leading role in it becoming a top global tourism destination. The Kingdom offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and modern lifestyle developments. Our diverse portfolio — spanning luxury and lifestyle, through to premium economy and midscale brands — will help broaden the appeal for today's discerning travelers. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, our growing hotel pipeline is set to generate over 15,000 job opportunities, with a significant focus on employing Saudi nationals.' Commenting on Hilton's momentum in the Kingdom, Carlos Khneisser, vice president, development, Middle East and Africa, Hilton, said: 'We are excited about reaching 100 hotels trading and in the pipeline in Saudi Arabia, as we continue to diversify our footprint and introduce more of our global brands across both established and emerging destinations. Our continued partnership with Al-Musbah Group is testament to this growth and our commitment to supporting private sector development in the Saudi tourism industry. We are proud to have Al-Musbah Group as part of our highly valued ownership community and to be working with them to introduce the region's first Spark by Hilton in Makkah. With two-thirds of our pipeline in Saudi Arabia already under construction, we look forward to continuing our work with new and existing owners to deliver more hotels at all price points for guests across the Kingdom.' The new signing marks the debut of Hilton's premium economy brand, Spark by Hilton, in the Middle East and Africa. Since its launch in 2023, Spark by Hilton has been at the forefront of innovation and is uniquely positioned to grow and scale quickly. Offering a simple, inspired design, comfortable guest rooms and a complimentary breakfast, the conversion-friendly, premium economy brand delivers reliable essentials and friendly service for every guest at an accessible price point. Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah is set to open later this year, marking the brand's debut in the MEA region. The 329-guest room property will offer twin-bed and triple-bed guest rooms. Located to the east of Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah's Aziziyah district, near the religiously significant area of Mina, a key site during Hajj with direct train access to Arafat, the hotel is ideally situated to serve pilgrims. The site is surrounded by commercial outlets and hotels that cater to religious travelers year-round. Developed by Al-Musbah Group, Spark by Hilton Makkah Aziziyah is one of several Hilton projects underway with the group across Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam. Spark by Hilton adds to Hilton's growing midscale presence across established and up-and-coming cities in the Kingdom, complementing existing brands such as Hampton by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn, which together account for one-third of the company's hotel pipeline. Recent signings include Hampton by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn properties in Jeddah, Jazan, and Abha, as well as at the NEOM Community site. In Makkah, Hilton is partnering with Umm Al-Qura for Development and Construction Company to open the world's largest Hilton Garden Inn, featuring 1,560 guest rooms. Hilton has also partnered with Knowledge Economic City to open the region's first Home2 Suites by Hilton in the Middle East in Madinah, alongside properties under the Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton brands.
Trade Arabia
15-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Hilton launches Hidden Disabilities Sunflower across UAE
Hilton has launched Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the UAE, becoming the first global hospitality operator to implement the programme across its hotels and corporate offices. The programme allows individuals with non-apparent disabilities, such as anxiety, chronic pain, or autism, to wear a Sunflower lanyard to indicate they need extra support. Hilton is supporting this work across its portfolio of hotels and corporate offices in the UAE, making stays more welcoming for those with non-apparent disabilities. Most team members in participating hotels have undergone specialised training to recognise the Sunflower lanyard, pin, or bracelet as a sign of support. Guy Hutchinson, president, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, 'As a business of people serving people, we are proud to be the first international hospitality company to implement the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme across our hotels in the UAE. This is a significant step as we continue to create a welcoming environment for all. One in seven people globally live with a disability, and 80% of these are not outwardly visible – making this latest partnership an important alliance that enables us to create a great workplace for every team member and deliver a seamless experience for every guest.' Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland, exclusive partner of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the Middle East, added, 'We are excited to partner with Hilton in the UAE as part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. As one of the leading hospitality companies in the region, Hilton's partnership signifies a momentous step for businesses and organisations to bring awareness, recognise the varied needs of both customers and employees, and encourage adequate training to be even better equipped to support those who may need extra help.'
Zawya
15-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Hilton launches Hidden Disabilities Sunflower across properties in the UAE
Team members in participating hotels across the UAE are now trained in best practices to support guests and colleagues living with a non-apparent disability Participating hotels will be listed as part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network Dubai, UAE – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today announces the launch of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the UAE – becoming the first global hospitality operator in the country to implement the programme across its operating hotels and corporate offices. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower enables people of determination with a non-apparent disability, such as anxiety, chronic pain, or autism, to choose to wear a Sunflower lanyard to indicate to others that they may need extra support. Hilton is supporting this work across its portfolio of hotels and corporate offices in the UAE, making a stay at Hilton more welcoming to those who may have a non-apparent disability. As part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, the majority of team members across the UAE at participating hotels have undergone specialised training that will better equip them to recognise the Sunflower lanyard, pin or bracelet as a sign that the guest or team member may require additional acknowledgement, support, patience, understanding and kindness without any language barrier. Guy Hutchinson, president, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, 'As a business of people serving people, we are proud to be the first international hospitality company to implement the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme across our hotels in the UAE. This is a significant step as we continue to create a welcoming environment for all. One in seven people globally live with a disability, and 80% of these are not outwardly visible – making this latest partnership an important alliance that enables us to create a great workplace for every team member and deliver a seamless experience for every guest.' Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland, exclusive partner of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the Middle East, added, 'We are excited to partner with Hilton in the UAE as part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. As one of the leading hospitality companies in the region, Hilton's partnership signifies a momentous step for businesses and organisations to bring awareness, recognise the varied needs of both customers and employees, and encourage adequate training to be even better equipped to support those who may need extra help.' As a global hospitality company, Hilton believes that every guest – regardless of age, ability or any other factor – deserves a reliable and friendly travel experience every time. The hospitality leader prides themselves on an award-winning culture of empowerment, awareness, advancement and advocacy for team members, guests and community members with visible and invisible disabilities, as well as caregivers and allies. While this effort is a great step forward, Hilton acknowledges this work is never done and looks forward to continuing its journey to create a welcoming and accessible stay for all. In addition to participating hotels and corporate offices across the UAE, Hilton has a growing number of hotels across Europe, the U.K. and the United States involved in the network. Moreover, two Hilton hotels across the UAE are now certified by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and eight others are in the process of getting the certification, as part of an initiative between IBCCES and Dubai Economy and Tourism that aims to create a better environment and enhance accessibility for guests and team members. This comes in line with Dubai's recent recognition as a certified Autism destination by IBCCES, underscoring citywide efforts to make tourism more accessible and inclusive for all, and making Dubai the first city in the Eastern Hemisphere to gain the title. For more information about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, please visit About Hilton Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 8,600 properties and nearly 1.3 million rooms, in 139 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World's Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 218 million Hilton Honors members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. About Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a global program supporting individuals with non-visible disabilities, conditions, and neurodivergence. Since its inception in the UK in 2016, the Sunflower program has expanded its reach worldwide, working with organisations across a diverse range of sectors, including retail, financial services, transportation (with over 330 airports and 22 airlines), travel and tourism, education, healthcare, emergency services, and entertainment. The Sunflower symbol gives individuals a discreet, voluntary way to share that they have a non-visible disability, condition, or neurodivergence and may need extra assistance, understanding, time, or space. This simple, non-verbal method empowers individuals to navigate their workplace and public spaces more confidently and easily, fostering inclusive and understanding environments. As a privately held multinational company headquartered in the UK, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower operates in numerous countries, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, Luxembourg, Poland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Mauritius, the UAE, the UK, and the USA. For more information, visit
