Dur Hospitality has sealed an agreement with Accor to open an upmarket tourist resort in Jeddah with the first appearance in the city of its Rixos brand.

This is Allways Traveller's third report on Saudi Arabia in recent months (see earlier features on 7 October 2021 and 15 November 2021), and the frequent news seems to demonstrate the kingdom's determination to develop its international tourism industry.

Jeddah has several destinations that are popular with tourists, but they are mostly domestic visitors or from neighbouring countries. As reported earlier, there are still some cultural differences to overcome before the Saudi tourism industry can become truly international. However, Jeddah is probably the most relaxed of all Saudi Arabian cities already.

Bride of the Red Sea

Obhur Bay is extremely popular among beachgoers for several reasons, not least of which is the fact that women dressed for the beach are made to feel welcome. Also known by locals as the "Bride of the Red Sea," this 11-kilometre coastal shore is a favourite getaway for families, especially during spring and autumn when the temperature is ideal. It is situated some 30 kilometres from central Jeddah, and south of King Abdullah Economic City. 

Boasting a spectacular location at the heart of Obhur Bay on the Red Sea, Rixos Jeddah Resort will feature a private beach and 247 residential units, including 174 rooms and 73 villas.

The resort includes a central ballroom for special events, three conference halls, a health club for women and men, a beauty parlour, a fitness centre, kids club and several swimming pools. It is set to open soon.

Local and international brands

Headquartered in the Saudi Arabian capital, Riyadh, Dur Hospitality manages, develops, and operates hotels and residential communities. The company's diversified portfolio encompasses 30 properties with several new hospitality and residential projects under development.

Dur's local hotel brands include Makarem and Shada, the latter specialising in authentic Saudi hospitality through a portfolio of sophisticated boutique and apartment hotels.

Dur also has a well-established partnership with Marriott International, recently strengthened by an agreement to operate Marriott Hotels, Marriott Executive Apartments and Marriott Courtyard.

And through its strategic partnership with the InterContinental Hotels Group, Dur Hospitality operates well-known hotel brands such as Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn under a master franchise agreement. 

Photos: Rixos Jeddah Resort; Pixabay

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