Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has signed an agreement with Khalediya Towers Company, a partnership between Al Jedaie Group and Al Hokair Group, to operate a Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Riyadh. The Four Points by Sheraton Riyadh Khalediya will open in the second quarter of 2013, marking the entry of Starwood's Four Points by Sheraton brand into Saudi Arabia. The hotel will feature 376 guest rooms including 138 suites, three restaurants and lounges, and an ultra-modern meeting and event space, including 18 purpose-built meeting rooms along with a spa and fitness center. "Together with Khalediya Towers Company, we are delighted to introduce the Four Points by Sheraton brand to the Kingdom and further expand our footprint in the country," said Roeland Vos, President Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East. "As Saudi Arabia continues to attract business travelers and religious tourism, the time is right to extend the Starwood portfolio across the country." Othman S. Abahussain, General Manager of Khalediya Towers Company, added "we are excited about opening our first hotel with Starwood and introducing the Four Points by Sheraton brand in Saudi Arabia. There is a strong demand for mid-market hotel brands in the country and we believe Four Points by Sheraton has a great reputation with business travelers globally." Starwood's Four Points by Sheraton brand's 'best for business' approach provides travelers with everything that matters the most with stylish design and an uncomplicated friendly approach to hospitality and service – all at a great value. Four Points by Sheraton Riyadh Khalediya will be located 20 minutes from the business areas of Riyadh and 45 minutes from Riyadh King Khalid International Airport. The hotel will also feature all of the brand's defining elements, including the signature Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort bed and free Wi-Fi in all public areas, reflecting the brand's promise and insight into the needs of today's traveller. "Growing the Four Points by Sheraton brand in key Middle Eastern markets, where we see continued demand for affordable yet innovative lodging options is core to our development strategy," said Bart Carnahan, Senior Vice President Acquisitions & Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East. "With one of the strongest pipelines in the Starwood brand portfolio and with more than 170 hotels around the world, Four Points by Sheraton has solidified its place as Starwood's third largest brand with the second-biggest global pipeline." — SG
