Knowledge Economic City (KEC), the publicly listed developer driving transformation in Madinah, has unveiled plans to deliver more than 11,000 hotel keys in the near future, marking one of the largest hospitality expansions in the region. This ambitious pipeline, backed by a total investment exceeding SAR 24 billion, with SAR 6.8 billion allocated directly to the hotel sector, reinforces KEC’s critical role in advancing Saudi Vision 2030.
The announcement was made during the inaugural TOURISE Summit in Riyadh, where KEC highlighted its strategic commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s growing tourism and investment landscape. Positioned as Madinah’s Gateway to the Future, KEC is rapidly redefining the city’s urban and hospitality landscape by merging innovation, culture, and spirituality. KEC’s most ambitious project is the Islamic World District (IWD), which is set to become a global cultural and hospitality landmark. The IWD aims to feature nearly 20,000 hotel rooms upon completion. Phase One alone will offer approximately 5,141 hotel rooms with a total project investment of SAR 6.56 billion, of which SAR 4.3 billion is dedicated to the hospitality sector. These hotels will be operated by leading international hospitality groups. Marriott International is managing three distinct brands with a total of 1,264 keys, including Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, and Residence Inn by Marriott. Hilton Worldwide has been entrusted with managing three hotel brands comprising 1,415 keys, including Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton, and Home2 Suites. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) is adding 1,057 rooms across brands such as Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express. Radisson Hospitality is managing two hotel offerings, including Park Inn by Radisson, totalling 757 keys. Amin Shaker, Chairman of the board at Knowledge Economic City, emphasised the strategic vision. “Our hospitality investments embody our commitment to building a future-ready Madinah that welcomes the world. Through our upcoming 11,000 hotel keys, we are not only expanding capacity but creating spaces that reflect Madinah’s unique identity, a place where culture, comfort and connectivity coexist". KEC is strategically located near the Prophet’s Mosque, the Haramain High-Speed Rail station, and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, playing a vital role in enhancing Madinah's status as a world-class hub for visitors, residents, and investors alike.