The agreement includes the development of 10 hotels throughout Saudi Arabia. The companies signed the deal during the Future Hospitality Summit in Riyadh. The project represents an investment of around SR5 billion.
The planned developments will add approximately 1,300 hotel rooms over the next four years. Additionally, the projects are expected to create thousands of employment opportunities during construction and operations.
The companies estimate that the agreement will generate nearly 11,000 jobs. Around 4,000 positions will support construction activities. Meanwhile, more than 6,000 permanent roles will support hotel operations and related businesses.
A large portion of the new jobs will go to Saudi citizens. The companies aim for about 60 percent of full-time positions to support local employment. This aligns with national efforts to strengthen the tourism workforce.
Blacksand Chief Executive Officer Omar Alabdullatif said the first project will open soon. The Business Address development is scheduled to welcome guests next year. Another project, Town Center, is expected to launch in 2028.
The executive explained that the 10-hotel agreement forms part of a wider investment strategy. Blacksand already manages a large pipeline of projects across Saudi Arabia. The company continues targeting areas with growing demand for hospitality services.
Furthermore, the developments aim to address gaps within the Kingdom’s hotel market. Some locations currently lack enough branded accommodation options. Therefore, the new projects will provide more choices for business travelers and tourists.
The agreement includes plans for a private-sector St. Regis resort in Saudi Arabia. The project will also include hotels near Misk City’s West Hall development. Another property will support the Metro One project near a major healthcare facility.
Blacksand also identified demand for affordable branded hotels. Many visitors look for rooms within the SR500 to SR600 range. Existing luxury properties often charge higher prices, creating opportunities for new options.
The company is also developing three farm resorts under Marriott’s Autograph Collection brand. These projects will combine international hospitality standards with Saudi cultural experiences.
The resorts will take inspiration from traditional private rest houses known as Istirahas. These spaces have long served as gathering places for families and communities. The new concept aims to modernize the experience while preserving local culture.
Marriott continues growing its presence in Saudi Arabia through new partnerships. The company plans to introduce different accommodation styles across the Kingdom. These include resorts, lifestyle hotels, and extended-stay properties.
The expansion supports Saudi Arabia’s broader tourism goals. The country continues attracting visitors through new destinations and hospitality investments. As a result, Saudi hotels are becoming a central part of the Kingdom’s economic development plans.
The partnership between Marriott and Blacksand highlights increasing confidence in Saudi Arabia’s tourism future. The projects will support investment, create employment, and expand the Kingdom’s hospitality infrastructure. Saudi hotels are expected to play a larger role as tourism demand continues rising.
