IHG Hotels & Resorts Marks Half a Century of Hospitality Evolution Across Saudi Arabia

Half a Century of Hospitality in Saudi Arabia

The evolution of IHG Hotels & Resorts in Saudi Arabia reaches an impressive milestone with 50 years of operation, starting from the landmark opening of InterContinental Riyadh in 1975. This journey has transformed IHG’s presence into one of the company’s most extensive portfolios worldwide, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s burgeoning tourism sector.

Growth Alongside Saudi Arabia’s Vision

What began as a single iconic hotel has grown exponentially, with over 100 hotels either open or planned across the country by 2025. This growth demonstrates confidence in the local market and aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 goals, aimed at developing a sustainable and vibrant tourism industry.

IHG’s strategy includes enhancing its existing properties while broadening its offerings across diverse hospitality segments: Luxury & Lifestyle, Premium, Essentials, and Suites. High-profile projects such as a major renovation of InterContinental Riyadh and the introduction of the modern InterContinental Red Sea Resort underscore this commitment.

Expanding the Luxury & Lifestyle Portfolio

The luxury portfolio now includes renowned brands like Six Senses, Regent, Kimpton, and Vignette Collection, each adding new dimensions of luxury and culture to Saudi Arabia’s hospitality scene. The collection caters to international travelers seeking uniquely rich experiences deeply rooted in local culture, while brands like voco and EVEN Hotels strengthen the premium and lifestyle options available for diverse traveler preferences.

Local Engagement and Strategic Growth

To anchor expansion efforts, IHG established its first-ever dedicated Riyadh office in 2023, serving as a strategic hub for managing partnerships, operational excellence, and government collaboration. This localized approach ensures that growth is meaningful and sustainable, enhancing the quality of hospitality offerings while fostering close engagement with Saudi talent and stakeholders.

Commitment to Local Talent and Community

Central to the success story is a strong commitment to Saudi talent development. Almost half of IHG’s workforce in the Kingdom comprises Saudi nationals, supported by initiatives such as the “Masarona by IHG” program aimed at accelerating leadership readiness among local employees. This approach not only nurtures careers but enriches guest experiences by creating hospitality that is genuinely reflective of Saudi culture and values.

Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Ambition

IHG’s long-term vision aligns with national objectives to diversify the economy and grow tourism, targeting a bold aspiration of welcoming 150 million visitors by 2030. This vision is supported by IHG’s portfolio which blends global scale and loyalty programs with local cultural connectivity, providing authentic and contemporary guest experiences throughout the Kingdom’s established cities and emerging destinations alike.

What This Means for Travelers and the Taxi & Transfer Experience

The expansion and enhancement of IHG’s hotel offerings across Saudi Arabia represent more than just a hospitality milestone. From the perspective of travel logistics, such rapid growth means increased demand for سيارة أجرة و transfer services at key airport hubs and city centers. For visitors seeking reliable, comfortable, and timely rides to and from their hotel, platforms like LocalsRide.com offer unparalleled convenience. Customers can choose their exact vehicle preferred for transfers, view comprehensive details such as make, model, and driver ratings beforehand, and enjoy transparency that traditional booking services may lack.

Benefits of Transparency and Choice in Travel

• Ability to select specific vehicle types suitable for groups or special needs
• Access to rated drivers ensuring safety and quality service
• Transparent fare pricing to avoid surprises at your destination
• Simple booking options across major Saudi cities with global reach

The Future Outlook for Saudi Tourism and Hospitality Services

Saudi Arabia’s strategic push to become a global tourism powerhouse could reshape the regional travel landscape considerably. The country’s evolving hospitality sector calls for integrated, reliable transportation options that cater to varied visitor profiles, from leisure tourists to business travelers. Taxi and transfer services will continue to play a key role in delivering seamless door-to-door experiences, making the right choice of transport essential for enjoyable travel.

الأفكار النهائية

IHG Hotels & Resorts’ 50-year journey in Saudi Arabia highlights a remarkable growth story—from a single hotel to a broad international portfolio aligned with visionary national plans. Their focus on luxury, lifestyle diversity, and local talent nurturance reshapes how visitors experience the Kingdom. Meanwhile, for those arriving by air or traveling between destinations, reliable transfer services become an integral part of a smooth stay.

Even with glowing reviews and brand reputations, nothing beats firsthand experience. On LocalsRide, travelers can easily hire a car with driver from verified providers offering reasonable prices. The platform’s extensive vehicle options and additional services empower users to make well-informed and economically savvy transport choices without unnecessary hassle or surprises. Transparency and convenience come standard here, ensuring travel logistics complement comfortable stays, especially at IHG properties.

Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with LocalsRide. The platform’s detailed vehicle selections and trusted drivers make booking taxis and transfers straightforward no matter your destination or trip type. Get the best offers and enjoy your journey fully!

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s bold tourism strides, propelled by IHG’s investment and expansion, promise fresh travel experiences supported by evolving taxi and transfer services. This synergy between top-tier hospitality and dependable local transport options creates a new standard for visitors seeking both comfort and cultural richness throughout the Kingdom’s cities and resort destinations.