Starwood plans to open new Sheraton in Makkah

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide recently said it plans to expand its presence into Saudi Arabia with a new Sheraton planned in the holy city of Makkah.
 
“Makkah has been a particular focus for Starwood growth, with Sheraton being one of three brands to make its entrance into the market in the next year,” Michael Wale, president of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Europe, Africa and Middle East, said. “The property will offer pilgrims the Sheraton brand’s renowned world-class service and a comfortable hospitality experience in the holy city.”
 
The Sheraton Makkah Jabal Al Kaaba, owned by Altayyar Travel Group Holding Company, will open by the end of 2016. The hotel, to be near the newly expanded mosque, will offer guests special access and views of the holy Haram. It will have 414 rooms and branded service apartments. Additionally, four dining options will be available on-site, as well as large meeting and event spaces.
 
“We believe the location of this hotel together with a strong brand name like Sheraton makes for a winning combination for our first branded hotel in the holy city,” Abdullah Aldawood, CEO of Altayyar Travel Group, said. “We are confident in Starwood’s ability to provide the finest of its globally recognized services under the Sheraton brand to pilgrims.”