Radisson Hotel Group currently operates 35 hotels in Saudi Arabia and has 15 additional properties under construction. The company aims to reach a total of 100 hotels in operation and development in the kingdom by 2030, according to Skift.
U.S.-Iran War Impacts Gulf Tourism but Radisson Maintains Targets
The ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict has caused a disruption in Gulf tourism markets in 2026, resulting in a slight slowdown in hotel signing volumes and business expansion across the region. Radisson’s Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer Elie Younes acknowledged the effect but stated the company’s long-term targets for the Gulf remain unchanged.
Demand Differences Shape Radisson’s Gulf Strategy
Saudi Arabia’s domestic hospitality demand has proven
more resilient compared to that of the United Arab Emirates. This market stability supports Radisson’s confidence in expanding aggressively within Saudi Arabia, even as they adjust growth plans in other Gulf countries facing more uneven recoveries.
Elie Younes emphasized this strategic approach, noting, “Our targets for the region have not changed, although there may be a slight slowdown in signing volumes and business expansion this year because of the war. But if you’re in it for the long run, there’s no change.” He added, “We still believe in Saudi Arabia, Vision 2030, Dubai, and the region.”
Radisson’s Gulf Growth Tied to Saudi Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
development plan underpins Radisson’s expansion confidence. The plan’s focus on diversifying the economy and boosting domestic tourism aligns with Radisson’s outlook for robust hospitality sector growth within the kingdom. Radisson’s prioritization of Saudi Arabia over markets like the UAE reflects the differing pace of tourism recovery in the Gulf.
