Meet Saudi 2018 - English

SAUDI 2018

2018

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12:45PM The moment you pulled off the ultimate meeting.

At Fairmont, we’re event experts, having hosted some of the world’s most momentous gatherings for more than a century.

Today, our one-of-a-kind hotels offer unique venues and everything in between—to host the function you have in mind, whether it’s a critical executive meeting or a headline-grabbing product launch.

We combine our proud heritage with modern innovations and outstanding dining experiences to make meetings and events seamless for you and unforgettable for your clients.

Gateway to your moment in over 20 countries. fairmont.com

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‫نظرة ثاقبة | طيران‬

Meet with innovation

We look forward to welcoming you to the meeting place of the region. A place where global innovation is showcased. A venue flexible enough to host the largest conferences, conventions and exhibitions.

Owned by the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, we allow our clients to tap into the tremendous purchasing power of The Kingdom and the region as a whole. Come and visit our state-of-the-art center, which is a true cultural landmark that measures up to every expectation.

The center welcomes all suggestions and comments P.O. Box 93393 Riyadh 11673 • Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Telephone +96611 2006677 • Fax +96611 4567199 info@ricec.com.sa | www.ricec.com.sa 32

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Welcome

Welcome to Meet Saudi 2018 your essential destination and meeting guide SAUDI 2018

2018

YO U R E SS E N T I A L D E ST I N AT I O N A N D M E E T I N G G U I D E Licensed by International Media Production Zone

YO U R E SS E N T I A L D E ST I N AT I O N A N D M E E T I N G G U I D E

M E E T I N SAU D I A R A B I A .CO M

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With a growing number of modern facilities and substantial government support, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is moving swiftly ahead with its goal to become the main destination for conferences and exhibitions in the Middle East by 2020. With plans in place to invest US$1.6 billion (SAR6 billion) in its MICE tourism industry, the country is set to emerge as a regional powerhouse.

There are already more than 600 first-class hotels, convention and exhibition facilities available in leading cities across the country, with more plans in place to significantly increase the kingdom’s offering. New infrastructure expansion projects such as the High-Speed Rail and Metro, as well as new hotel developments, will stimulate further growth in business, leisure and religious tourism. Meanwhile, thanks to the landmark Vision 2030 there is a concerted effort to generate both revenue and employment in the country by hosting more business events – with the Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau last year launching its first international campaign to market the country as a business destination at IMEX in Frankfurt.

With this in mind, Meet Saudi 2018 is pleased to provide a comprehensive guide on the exhaustive exhibition and convention sector within the kingdom. Here you will discover exclusive industry insights and a broad list of the best hotels and venues that are sure to appeal to planners looking to host a variety of world-class events within the country.

Rob Nicholas Publisher

Visit us online at meetmiddleeast.com

EDITORIAL Group Editor Jacqueline Castelluccia Editor Adrian Back

ADVERTISING Relationship Manager Rose D’Souza Sales Coordinator Carol Milan, Mary Grace

STUDIO Art Director Maria Al Daoudi Designers Tony Santiago, Ritz Gutierrez Photographer Adham Sneeh

PUBLISHING Publisher Rob Nicholas COVER IMAGE Riyadh cityscape

npimedia FZ LLC PO Box 500573, Office 704, Executive Heights (Damac Building), Barsha Heights, Dubai, UAE Tel +971 4 4243600 Fax +971 4 4327505 Email meet@npimedia.com Web meetmiddleeast.com Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this publication, npimedia cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies contained within it.

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Contents

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p76

p44

Insight

Meet

06..... Introduction – Saudi Arabia is pushing ahead with numerous major developments as it bids to become a leading destination for tourism and business events

36...... Beyond the ordinary – Whether prioritising luxury, location or leisure options, Saudi Arabia’s hospitality industry is offering visitors an evermore appealing proposition

08..... Saudi Arabia at a glance – A snapshot of why the kingdom is one of the leading nations in the Gulf

44..... Watch this space – The country boasts a growing number of alternative venues that should be on every planner’s list

10....... Fact file – Useful information and practical advice to help your business trip or conference run smoothly

Stay

12....... A soaring success – Saudi Arabia is investing heavily to make sure its aviation sector is flying high

50..... Hotel factsheets – The ultimate resource for top hotels in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

14....... A bright future– The kingdom is making huge strides across numerous sectors from transport to tourism

58...... Hotel listings – A detailed look at some of the kingdom’s leading hotels with a summary of their facilities

16....... Insider guide to Riyadh – The capital combines tradition with modern touches to present an intriguing destination for events

18....... Insider guide to Jeddah - The famous port city is emerging as a leading meetings and events destination

64..... Deliciously diverse – The country’s culinary scene is flourishing with an increasing variety of cuisines now available

20..... Insider guide to Eastern Province – The country’s largest province is building its MICE capabilities in line with the kingdom’s ambitious meeting goals

70...... Kingdom of treasures – With a rich history and unique culture, Saudi Arabia offers a wealth of cultural attractions for both business and leisure travellers

22...... Insider guide to the Red Sea Coast – Steeped in history from the Holy City of Makkah to the highlands of Taif, this is a region that simply must be explored

74...... High flyers – From falconry to football, Saudi Arabia’s sporting scene offers a mixture of local tradition and international flair – plus plenty of incentive opportunities for business visitors

24...... All about the journey – Navigating the kingdom has never been simpler thanks to reliable public transport and a host of options for groups both big and small

76...... The great outdoors – Boasting ocean adventures, desert discoveries and world-class attractions, Saudi Arabia delivers unforgettable incentive experiences that will take you beyond the boardroom

28...... A new vision – Spurred on by the pioneering Vision 2030, Saudi Exhibition & Convention Bureau has a firm focus on the future

Play

Directory

80..... Key contacts – An essential go-to-guide of service providers and suppliers in Saudi Arabia

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We inspire...your world

‫عاملك‬...‫نبدع‬ ‫الرؤية‬

Vision Creative leadership in the exhibitions and events industry all over the Kingdom Mission Seeking continuous excellence and innovation in the exhibitions and events industry, by providing high quality diversified services that meet the aims of our clientele and partners, adding value to the economy and society, under the values and authenticity of our culture

‫الريادة الخالقة في صناعة المعارض والفعاليات على‬ ‫مستوى المملكة‬ ‫الرسالة‬ ‫السعي المستمر نحو التميز واإلبتكار في صناعة‬ ‫المعارض والفعاليات من خالل تقديم منتجات متنوعة‬ ،‫عالية الجودة تلبي تطلعات المستفيدين والشركاء‬ ‫ في ظل قيم‬،‫ذات قيمة مضافة لإلقتصاد والمجتمع‬ ‫وأصالة مجتمعنا‬ ‫القيم‬

Values Commitment, Customer Service, Excellence, Creativity, Proficiency, Achievement and Participation

،‫ اإلبداع‬،‫ التميز‬،‫ خدمة العميل‬،‫اإللتزام‬ ‫ اإلنجاز والمشاركة‬،‫اإلتقان‬

‫شركة معارض الظهران الدولية‬‎

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Dhahran International Exhibitions Company P. O Box 7519, Dammam 31472 Saudi Arabia +966 13 840 0000 +966 13 840 0008 info@diec.com.sa

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INSIGHT | INTRODUCTION

01

Looking forward Saudi Arabia is forging a new identity as an alluring destination for business and leisure visitors – all while respecting the kingdom’s rich history and deep-rooted cultural traditions

Long revered as the centre of the Islamic world, and as a nation steeped in history and culture, a major evolution has been taking place in Saudi Arabia which is seeing the kingdom diversify across a wide spectrum of areas, expanding its horizons as part of an ambitious plan to become a major destination for both business and leisure tourism.

Underpinning the framework for the new strategy is the innovative Saudi Vision 2030. Set out by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Al Saud in 2016, the blueprint for change details a far-reaching set of policies to reduce the economy’s traditional dependence on oil by expanding into largely untapped leisure markets, raising smart cities from the desert and achieving a series of sustainable goals.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the tourism industry contributed US$21 billion (SAR78.8 billion) to the country’s GDP in 2016, or 3.3 percent. That figure is expected to increase by 3.8 percent year-on-year over the coming decade.

This newfound focus on tourism will seek to boost employment rates among the country’s 33 million population, about 50 percent of which is under the age of 25, as the ongoing ‘Saudisation’ programme also replaces expatriate workers with locals in the private sector.

Expanding the kingdom’s MICE capabilities forms a cornerstone of the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, with the Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau established specifically to grow this burgeoning sector and

promote Saudi as a viable destination for event planners. The government has set aside SAR6 billion (US$1.6 billion) to help achieve the goal, as the country aims to become the primary destination for conferences and exhibitions in the Middle East by 2020.

With the right development, the ambition is well within reach, aided by the Kingdom’s impressive financial muscle – Saudi Arabia’s 2016 GDP of US$646.4 billion (SAR2.4 trillion) makes it by far the largest market in the region. The country’s central location, with easy accessibility from Africa, Asia and Europe, is also a major plus.

Recent progress in the MICE landscape has been encouraging. In 2016, more than 8,750 licenced business events were held across the country, a year-on-year growth of 12 percent, with almost half of those functions taking place in the Saudi capital.

To nurture future growth, the kingdom is investing heavily in infrastructure initiatives – with 61,000 hotel rooms in the pipeline. State-of-the-art new facilities include Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel, the city’s first convention centre capable of hosting events for up to 1,600 guests, the twomillion-square-foot Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center and the one-million-square-foot Dhahran International Exhibitions Centre.

Jeddah Economic City, due to launch next year, will generate an influx of business opportunities and see tourists flock to its centrepiece Jeddah Tower, set to become the world’s tallest skyscraper at a height of

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01: Riyadh skyline 02: Saudi Arabia’s desert landscape

3.3

PERCENT OF THE COUNTRY’S GDP CAME FROM TRAVEL AND TOURISM IN 2016

603,500 JOBS DIRECTLY ACCOUNTED FOR BY TOURISM IN 2016

97b

TOTAL INVESTMENT (US$) BEING MADE IN THE COUNTRY’S RAILWAY SYSTEM Source: WTTC

more than one kilometre. King Abdullah Economic City in the Makkah region is another mammoth development in the works, and its port is set to become the region’s largest, while the Red Sea tourism project is a bold move to build a world-class visitor destination along 125 miles of scenic coastline.

Meanwhile the US$500 billion Neom project, along the Red Sea, has been generating plenty of headlines with its futuristic promise of state-of-the-art robotics and smart lifestyle. A series of major new convention districts are then also in the pipeline for Riyadh, Jeddah and in Madinah.

Welcoming the world All of this new development of course means a predicted rise in visitor numbers, spanning business, leisure and faith-based tourism. As the cradle of Islam, Saudi Arabia has long been one of the world’s foremost destinations for religious travellers – and the kingdom is looking to drastically increase the annual visitors undertaking the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

Approximately eight million people made the journey to Makkah in 2016, although this is expected to reach 15 million by 2020 and 30 million by 2030 as the government invests in tourism projects worth US$50 billion (SAR187.5 billion) and continues to ease travel restrictions. Building work in the Holy City has also ballooned to unprecedented levels. The Great

Mosque, which houses the deeply revered Ka’aba at its centre, is undergoing a US$26.6 billion (SAR100 billion) expansion to increase its capacity from 2 million to 3.5 million.

In terms of accommodation, Makkah’s Abraj Kudai hotel is a US$3.5 billion (SAR13.1 billion) superstructure on course to be the world’s largest hotel – comprising 12 towers with 10,000 rooms and 70 restaurants.

Saudi Arabia’s transport links are also responding to increased demand, with airline passenger numbers expected to hit 100 million by 2020.

Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport is undergoing massive expansion work to meet demand. Its phase one is scheduled for completion this year and will see its passenger capacity increase from 13 million to 30 million.

US$97 billion (SAR364 billion) is also going into adding 15,000 kilometres of rail links, while the Riyadh Metro, due to open in 2019, will feature 85 stations peppered across the capital.

Nation of plenty Offering much for business and leisure visitors, historical treasures abound throughout the Kingdom with four UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit.

Jeddah is a haven of modern culture, with elegant public artworks dotted around the city, while nature lovers can take a trip to Asir National Park near Abha, home to a diversity of flora 02 and fauna. For a golfing session, the capital boasts multiple options from the 18-hole Riyadh Golf Course to Nofa Golf Resort. While excellent options for shopping and dining are fast developing. With such an eclectic offering, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a destination for the future.

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JORDAN

More to come Visitor numbers are expected to increase sharply in the coming years — from 18 million in 2015 to 25.8 million by 2020

IRAQ

ARAR

TABUK HAIL

On the right track Set to launch this year, the state-of-the-art Haramain Express Train will connect Makkah and Madinah, travelling at almost 200mph and easing congestion

MEDINA EGYPT

RED SEA

MECCA JEDDAH

Take flight King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah is the country’s busiest, with an estimated 31 million passengers in 2016

ABHA SUDAN

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Saudi Arabia

Grand scale KUWAIT

Renowned for its financial fortitude, Saudi Arabia is diversifying its economy with a renewed focus on business tourism

Measuring more than two million square kilometres, Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and the 13th largest in the world

HAFR AL BATIN

DAMMAM ARABIAN GULF QATAR

RIYADH

UAE

SAUDI ARABIA

A new wave A visa-free tourism hot spot off the Red Sea coast is planned for 2022. The 125-mile destination will span 50 untouched islands

OMAN

Saudi Vision 2030 By 2030, the kingdom aims to: • I ncrease non-oil government revenue from US$43.5 billion (SAR163 billion) to US$270 billion (SAR1 trillion) • R educe the unemployment rate from 11.6 percent to 7 percent • I ncrease women’s participation in the workforce from 22 percent to 30 percent

• I ncrease household spending on cultural and entertainment activities in the kingdom from 2.9 percent to 6 percent • M ove from the 19th largest economy in the world, to a top 15 ranking • I ncrease SME contribution to the GDP from 20 percent to 35 percent

Source: vision2030.gov.sa

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INSIGHT | FACT FILE

Need to know:

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Essential information and top tips for visitors to Saudi Arabia Located between the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, Saudi Arabia covers four-fifths of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders a host of other Middle Eastern countries including the UAE, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman.

How do I get there?

The four main international airports are: King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport in Dammam and Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah.

Which languages are spoken?

Arabic is the official language, although English is widely spoken and understood in business environments.

Climate As a desert nation, Saudi Arabia has very little rainfall – with hot days and cool nights. Climate-wise, the best period to visit is between October and May, and January is the coolest month of the year with temperatures ranging approximately between 11 and 19 degrees centigrade (52 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit).

What’s the national currency?

The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is pegged to the US dollar at US$1 = SAR3.75.

How do I arrange my entry visa?

GCC citizens can visit Saudi Arabia visa-free.

All other nationalities must secure a visa prior to travel from their local Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate.

Business hours The working week is from Sunday to Thursday. Government offices generally open from

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Phrasebook

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Marhaba: Hello As-salam alaykum: Peace be upon you (Islamic greeting) Wa alaykum as-salam: And peace be upon you (answer to Islamic greeting) Min fudluk: Please Shukran: Thank you Afwan: You’re welcome Na’am: Yes La’a: No Ma’assalama: Take care Wada-aan: Goodbye

7.30am to 2.30pm. Bank opening hours vary, with most open between 9am and 1pm on Saturdays to Wednesdays (noon on Thursdays) and some reopening from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

What happens during Ramadan?

As an Islamic country, Saudi Arabia observes the Holy Month of Ramadan. Muslims fast during this time, abstaining from eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours.

As a sign of respect, visitors are also required to refrain from these activities in public. The mood is generally more tranquil, and many companies shorten their working hours. In 2018, Ramadan is expected to last from midMay to mid-June. Following Ramadan, is the Eid celebration where Muslims mark the end of the fast and enjoy a festive season of meeting with friends and family.

01: Riyadh skyline 02: Makkah 03: Traditional dress 04: Ta’if, Saudi Arabia

Hajj and Umrah Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to the Holy City of Makkah that every Muslim who is able is required to take once in a lifetime. Umrah pilgrimages take place throughout the year.

03

Dress code Given Saudi Arabia’s traditional culture, visitors should err on the side of caution when choosing an outfit. Men are required to wear long trousers and a long-sleeved top, while women must wear an abaya (long black overgarment) when out in public.

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INSIGHT | AVIATION

A soaring success Keen to capitalise on booming visitor numbers, Saudi Arabia is investing heavily to ensure it becomes a key name in the modern aviation sector

01

As passenger numbers to Saudi Arabia have rocketed from 54.5 million in 2011 to 84 million in 2016, the kingdom has implemented a raft of expansions and updates to its aviation industry.

The country’s airports are embarking on ambitious projects to bolster their facilities, while the addition of multiple new national carriers is helping to improve domestic and iternational connectivity. This spells good news for the country’s MICE sector, which itself is flourishing under the Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau.

Founded in 1945, the state-run Saudia has enjoyed a decades-long monopoly on the nation’s airline market. This began to change in 2007, when the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) issued licences to two new carriers including flynas, Saudi Arabia’s first low-cost airline. Flynas currently operates services to 33 destinations, most of which are inside the kingdom, and last year won the Skytrax Award for the best low-cost airline in the Middle

East. In 2011, the kingdom’s market further opened up when GACA announced a policy shift to start allowing foreign carriers to apply for domestic as well as international flight licences.

That same year, a licence was issued to SaudiGulf, owned by the Al Qahtani Group, a consortium of privately owned companies based in Saudi Arabia. The carrier currently operates between four routes – Dammam, Riyadh, Jeddah and Abha – offering first-class and economy fares. It aims to have a fleet of up to 30 planes within the next three years.

Nesma Airlines, a joint flag carrier of Saudi Arabia and Egypt, also began operating international flights to three destinations within the kingdom in 2011.

The company has since added domestic services to its slate.

Meanwhile, in August 2017, the kingdom’s second low-cost carrier, Flyadeal, acquired its first aircraft ready for a maiden voyage on September 23, to coincide with Saudi National Day. The airline, a subsidiary of Saudia, is set to

Saudi airports are embarking on ambitious projects to bolster their facilities

Passengers at Saudi Arabia’s airports (millions)

2016 2015

2014 2013 2012 2011

84

81.9

74.7

68.1

64.8

54.5

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receive a further seven A320 planes by mid-2018, as it aims for a fleet of up to 50 aircraft by 2020. Based in Jeddah, it will initially serve domestic and regional routes before expanding into international markets.

Despite this increase in competition, Saudia continues to dominate the domestic aviation market and is the only airline that operates at all 27 airports in the kingdom. It is also expanding at a rapid pace, forecasting passenger numbers to increase from 29.5 million in 2015 to 45 million by 2020, by which time it aims to have a fleet of 200 aircraft.

With passenger arrivals anticipated to grow from nearly 82 million in 2015 to more than 100 million by 2020, Saudi Arabia is also investing heavily in airport infrastructure.

The country’s four main international airports are King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.

King Abdulaziz International Airport is the Kingdom’s “most important” facility of its kind, according to GACA, as it provides the gateway for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims on their way to the Holy Mosque in Makkah. It is currently undergoing a massive, three-phase

expansion. Phase one, set to be operational this year, provides 46 gates for domestic and international flights, an on-site hotel and mosque, plus a connection to the new high-speed Haramain Express Train, set to connect Madinah and Makkah.

The project will expand the airport’s capacity from 13 million to 30 million annual passengers. Phase two, due for completion in 2025, will increase that number to 43 million and phase three, scheduled for a 2035 finish, will up the total again to 80 million.

The capital’s King Khalid International Airport began operating domestic flights from its new Terminal 5 in 2016.

The terminal, expected to be finished in 2019, measures 106,500 square metres and has a capacity of 12 million passengers annually. The facility is part of a wider expansion at the airport, which also includes the refurbishment and expansion of Terminals 3 and 4, with the goal of increasing passengers travelling through per year from 23.4 million in 2016 to 40 million by 2038.

Transport to and from the airport will also improve with the launch of the US$23 billion (SAR86.3 billion) King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project, also known as the Riyadh Metro, due to be operational by early 2019. Spanning 176 kilometres and 85 stations, the

02

01: Saudi Arabian Airlines.

02: King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh 02: Check-in area in Medina, Saudi Arabia

63

million The number of flynas passengers in 2016, a 14 percent increase year-on-year

2.9 million

People flew Saudia in April 2017, the most for a single month in the airline’s 72-year history

640 thousand

03

Number of flights in Saudi Arabia in 2016

metro will consist of six lines linking King Khalid International Airport to King Abdullah Financial Centre, the city centre and main university campuses.

The new Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport opened in Madinah in 2015. The four-million square-metre facility is due to be completed in three phases. Phase one has been finished at a cost of SAR4.5 billion (US$1.2 billion), which includes a threelevel terminal covering 200,000 square metres and has boosted the airport’s capacity to eight million passengers per annum. Phases two and three will see capacity rise further to 18 million and 40 million annual passengers respectively.

King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, the world’s largest airport by surface area at 301 square miles, is undergoing its own expansion works in an effort to increase annual passengers from 12.6 million to 21 million.

The airport is working towards a new 30-year masterplan, with potential developments including additional runways, lounges, parking areas and hotels.

These projects, along with similar expansion schemes in the kingdom’s smaller airports and the planned creation of new facilities, are set to boost the nation’s goal of welcoming 140 million visitors by 2022.

As Saudi Arabia transforms itself into a major regional hub linking the GCC region, Africa, Asia and Europe, while reducing its economic reliance on oil as per the Vision 2030 mandate, the kingdom hopes to quickly evolve into one of the Middle East’s most important destinations for business and leisure tourists alike.

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MEET | NEW DEVELOPMENTS

A bright future Saudi Arabia is making huge strides across numerous sectors from transport to tourism, as the kingdom diversifies on its journey towards Vision 2030

Room for more: The world’s largest Radisson Blu hotel is set to open in Makkah. The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has revealed, 588 rooms will open in May, followed by another 663 rooms a year later. Radisson Red hotels are also due to launch in Jeddah and Makarunah in 2018, with the company’s total Saudi Arabia offering comprising 35 properties and 9,000 rooms.

Walk the walk: The US$320 million (SAR1.2 billion) project Riyadh Walk is set to be the city’s premier shopping, leisure and dining destination. Spread over 13.7 hectares it is set for completion in Q4 of this year.

2018

Take off: The US$7.2 billion (SAR27 billion) expansion of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah will begin operation by mid-year. Phase one of three will include a 720,000 square-metre terminal and a new baggage handling system.

Track star: The Haramain High Speed Rail station connecting Jeddah, King Abdullah Economic City, Madinah and Makkah is set to launch this year.

Time to spend: Estimated for completion this year, City Centre Ishbiliyah in Riyadh adds a major new shopping destination to the kingdom, set to include 250 stores, a 9,000metre hypermarket, food court and a Magic Planet amusement arcade.

Retail hub: The Mall of Saudi shopping centre in Riyadh’s Ishbiliyah district will consist of 300,000 square metres of retail space – making it the country’s largest mall – with phase one also including a ski slope and a hotel.

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Action stations: Covering 85 stations and 110 miles, the Riyadh Metro is due to start operating in 2019. The US$23 billion (SAR86 billion) public transport system aims to reduce congestion by carrying three million people a day.

A new view: A US$1.9 billion (SAR7.1 billion) shopping precinct, The Avenues Riyadh covers 390,000 square metres and will include two hotels, residential apartments, offices, a medical tower and parking for 18,000 vehicles.

CITY OF THE FUTURE One of the most ambitious urban projects ever embarked upon, Neom is a US$500 billion (SAR1.8 trillion) development on the Red Sea coast. A smart city powered by clean energy, it promises a state-of-the-art lifestyle and business hub with advanced robotics and solar energy by 2025.

Building greatness: The US$26.6 billion (SAR99.7 billion) project aims to expand and renovate the Grand Mosque in Makkah, increasing its capacity to 3.5 million people.

2019

2021

2020

Towering glory: Jeddah Tower is set to trump Dubai’s Burj Khalifa as the world’s tallest building when it opens. The skyscraper, which will surpass one kilometre in height, forms part of the 530-hectare Jeddah Economic City project’s phase one, with the mixed-use development poised to generate 30,000 jobs.

Flying the flag: American theme park giant Six Flags is due to open the first of three Six Flags, as part of a 334 square kilometre entertainment hub outside Riyadh. Slated to cost between US$300 million (SAR1.1 billion) and US$500 million (SAR1.8 billion), the park will likely be followed by similar projects in Jeddah and the Red Sea coast.

2022

Coast to coast: 125 miles of coastline has been set aside for the huge Red Sea Tourism initiative, with phase one due for completion in 2022. A resort will be built across 50 previously untouched islands spanning more than 13,000 square miles – an area bigger than Belgium – with the aim of welcoming one million travellers annually by 2035.

Key to the city: King Abdullah Economic City, a 168 million-squaremetre mega development on the Red Sea coast is set to welcome its first 50,000 inhabitants in 2020. When finished in 2035, the city will comprise a residential area for two million people, a tourism resort and King Abdullah Port.

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NEIGHBOURHOODS | INSIGHT

Insider guide

Riyadh Saudi Arabia’s bustling capital is a hub of arts, culture, leisure and business, with an exciting series of developments set to further enhance its offering 01

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01: Riyadh skyline 02: Masmak Fortress 03: Souq al-Thumairi

Located in the heart of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is the Kingdom’s capital and its most populous city with a population of more than 6.5 million people.

It also serves as a national hub for business travel, given the proliferation of modern MICE venues, hotels and options for tourism and entertainment. In early 2019, the Riyadh Metro will launch – simplifying transport for residents and visitors alike.

Divided into 15 districts, the city’s number one choice for meetings and events is Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. The sleek venue in Al Waha measures a massive two million square feet, and includes an exhibition hall which can be divided into a conference centre, an outdoor exhibition area, VIP lounge, business centre and press centre.

A short drive away is the upmarket Olaya district,a popular shopping and dining area. For a spot of retail therapy, head to Marina Mall, Riyadh Gallery Mall, Azizia Mall, Al Mousa Center or Centria Mall.

Combine shopping and sight seeing with a trip to the nearby Kingdom Centre. Measuring almost 1,000 feet tall, the skyscraper is a famous landmark on the city’s skyline and comprises Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Center (complete with more than 77,000 square feet of meeting and event space), the Sky Bridge viewing platform, accommodation and offices, plus another mall.

Another stop not to miss is the Al Faisaliah Complex, where you’ll find the impressive 876-foot tall Al Faisaliyah Tower, as well as a shopping centre and the five-star Al Faisaliah Hotel which boasts the 48,000 square metre Prince Sultan’s Grand Hall able to accommodate 4,000 guests.

The cultural side of the city offers much for incentive groups or business visitors looking to explore the area.

The National Museum, part of the King Abdul Aziz Historical Center, has a plethora of artefacts detailing the kingdom’s rich heritage. Or step back in time at Masmak Fortress, an integral part of

Event horizon If you’re seeking the ideal event space for your function in Riyadh, top picks include King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, the host venue for many key healthcare events in the city, Alfaisal University, a popular venue for science-related gatherings, and King Fahd Cultural Center, which has a 3,000seat theatre and a planetarium.

Saudi history, it was the site where King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the nation’s founder and first monarch, recaptured Riyadh in 1902.

Just south of the fort is Souq al-Thumairi, a popular and vibrant traditional shopping destination selling everything from Arabic coffee pots to jewellery.

Take in some natural attractions with a trip to Riyadh Zoo – the largest in the kingdom – or take a stroll in the scenic King Abdullah Park.

The capital also has a great selection of accommodation , with plenty of international hotel brands. Choices include The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, Crowne Plaza Riyadh Minhal, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter, InterContinental Riyadh and Radisson Blu Riyadh.

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1 Riyadh ICEC

6 Riyadh Gallery

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17 The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh

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18 Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya

3 Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh

8 Centria Mall 9 Hayat Mall

14 Narcissus Hotel & Residence

19 Aloft Riyadh

Kingdom Centre 4 Al Faisaliyah Tower 5 Al Faisaliah Hotel

10 Masmak Fortress 11 Souq al-Thumairi

Riyadh 15 Riyadh Marriott Hotel 16 Intercontinental Riyadh

23 Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh

Diplomatic Quarter 24 Radisson Blu Riyadh

20 Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski 21 King Abdullah Park 22 Crowne Plaza Riyadh Minhal

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NEIGHBOURHOODS | INSIGHT

Insider guide

Jeddah Rapidly becoming a destination of choice for both leisure and business travellers, past meets the present at this pretty coastal city 02

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A picturesque coastal city, Jeddah is also the kingdom’s centre of commerce, a hotbed of historical treasures and a gateway for pilgrims making their way to the Holy City in Makkah.

Perhaps the perfect spot to start a to your day of exploration is Jeddah Corniche, a family-friendly area with much to see and do. Atallah Happy Land Park has everything from rides to dancing fountains and an ice-skating rink, while the nearby Al Shallal Theme Park also offers plenty of entertainment.

Within easy reach of the corniche is Fakieh Aquarium, home to more than

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1 Al-Balad 2 Nasseef House 3 Jeddah Municipality Museum

200 marine species, from seahorses to sharks, as well as daily dolphin shows.

Look out to the Red Sea and you’ll see King Fahd’s Fountain, the world’s tallest fountain, with water jets soaring up to approximately 1,000 feet and are visible across much of the city.

For visitors looking to make the Corniche area their base, accommodation options are plentiful. These include Jeddah Hilton, Sofitel Jeddah Corniche, Rosewood Jeddah Hotel, InterContinental Jeddah, Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq, Crowne Plaza Jeddah and the plush Movenpick Resort Al Nawras Jeddah.

Also along the Corniche is the Jeddah Sculpture Museum – featuring creative works by a selection of artists from around the world.

A short walk from the coast is Tahlia Street (Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street), packed with upscale department stores, boutiques and shopping malls. The street is also a cultural draw due to its concentration of art spaces including Athr Gallery, Arabian Wings Gallery, the new Empty Quarter Gallery and the longstanding Saudi Centre for Fine Arts. For those wishing to delve into Jeddah’s past,

6 Jeddah Corniche 7 Al Shallal Theme Park 8 Fakieh Aquarium.

4 Al-Shafi’i Mosque

9 Jeddah Hilton

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10 Sofitel Jeddah Corniche

01: J eddah Corniche 02: Al Balad 03: Jeddah street art

In the pipeline The city will soon also be the focus of the world’s attention with the 2019 launch of Jeddah Tower, the world’s tallest skyscraper and centrepiece of the brand new Jeddah Economic City.

11 Rosewood Jeddah Hotel

15 Athr Gallery

12 Movenpick Resort Al Nawras

16 Jeddah IECC

Jeddah.

13 Saudi Center for Fine Arts 14 Arabian Wings Gallery

the city’s historical area of Al-Balad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which dates back to the seventh century. Among the sights to take in while wandering the maze-like Al-Balad district is the ancient Al-Shafi’i Mosque, estimated to be 1,400 years old. Meanwhile Souk al-Alawi sells everything from clothing to coffee.

Nasseef House is a 19 th century mansion which now serves as a cultural centre, while Jeddah Municipality Museum preserves the rich history of the city. The area is even believed to house the Tomb of Eve, wife of Adam, considered in some religions to be the first man on earth.

For MICE visitors, the Jeddah International Exhibition & Convention Center and Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events can both be found on Madinah Road. The former is an ultra-modern, 40,000-square-metre facility with an exhibition hall and business centre, and the latter hosts major events including Cityscape Jeddah and the Saudi International Motor Show.

Also along Madinah Road is Mall of Arabia, a huge and sleek shopping centre perfect for delegates looking to unwind post-conference.

17 Jeddah Centre for Forums

19 Waldorf Astoria Jeddah –

Qasr Al Sharq 20 Crowne Plaza Jeddah

and Events 18 Mall of Arabia

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NEIGHBOURHOODS | INSIGHT

Insider guide

Eastern Province Rich in natural resources, the Eastern Province is also building its MICE capabilities in line with the kingdom’s ambitious meeting and event goals 02

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01: Corniche Park, Dammam 02: Tarout Island 03: Fishing boats in Dammam

The largest of Saudi Arabia’s 13 regions, the Eastern Province is home to some of the kingdom’s most dramatic scenery and borders multiple countries including Oman, Kuwait and the UAE. The Empty Quarter desert covers much of the province, while the capital Dammam has developed from a coastal fishing and pearling hub to the thriving epicentre of the kingdom’s oil industry.

Dammam’s wider metropolitan area – also home to the neighbouring cities Dhahran and Al-Khobar – has long been the go-to option for events relating to the nation’s oil and gas sector. The eighth biennial Saudi Arabia International Oil & Gas Exhibition was held in 2016 at the Dhahran International Exhibitions Centre (Dhahran Expo). A top-drawer MICE pick, the venue totals 100,000 square metres and has two interconnected exhibition halls, a banquet hall, a business centre and more.

In addition to its business offering, the area has plenty to offer those looking for leisure. Dammam Corniche is a picturesque seafront neighbourhood which looks out onto the Arabian Gulf.

New heights The Eastern Province’s primary aviation facility is King Fahd International Airport.

Located in Dammam it is believed to be the world’s largest airport at 300 square miles (larger than the country of Bahrain).

A major cultural development for the province is the brand new King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture. The multipurpose facility in Dhahran has 100,000 square metres of function space as well as a 930-seat auditorium, a library with 200,000 books, the massive Great Hall and the Knowledge Tower.

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Take a stroll in the beautifully landscaped King Abdullah Park, go back in time with a trip to Heritage Village or travel by land or sea to the man-made Marjan Island, which is connected to the mainland via a bridge and perfect for a bicycle ride or a picnic.

Other nearby entertainment includes the Dolphin Village, modern shopping centres such as Marina Mall and Mall of Dhahran, and the huge King Fahd Park, which boasts rides galore. Dammam Regional Museum, located within Dammam Public Library, showcases the region’s ancient roots and celebrates its cultural significance to the region.

To the north of Dammam is Al Qatif district and the quaint Tarout Island.

Popular open-air market Souq alKhamis can be found at Al Qatif.

South of Dammam is Al-Khobar, which is known for its alluring scenery and connects Saudi Arabia to Bahrain via the King Fahd Causeway. Visit Half-Moon Bay for a spot of sunshine and swimming, with beach buggies also available for hire. The area has its own corniche too, while shopping options include Al-Rashid Mall.

Take an 80-minute train journey from Dammam to the city of Hofuf in the AlAhsa oasis region. One of the world’s largest date producers, Hofuf is home to the historical Ibrahim Palace and the traditional Qaisariah Souq.

Meeting and event options in the province can be found in hotels such as Sheraton Dammam Hotel & Convention Centre, Novotel Dammam Business Park, Radisson Blu Hotel Dhahran, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dhahran, Kempinski Al Othman Hotel Al Khobar, Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche and Al Ahsa InterContinental.

1 Dammam Regional Museum

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12 Novotel Dammam Business Park

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13 Radisson Blu Hotel Dhahran

11 Sheraton Dammam Hotel &

14 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

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NEIGHBOURHOODS | INSIGHT

Insider guide

Red Sea Coast Steeped in fascinating history, the Red Sea Coast, an important relgious centre, is becoming an excellent prospect for business and leisure 01

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01: Ka’aba, Makkah 02: Hira Cave 03: Clock tower, Makkah 04: Mada’in Saleh

Filled with ancient treasures, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Coast is bordered by Jordan to the north and Yemen to the south. Approximately one hour’s drive inland from Jeddah lies Makkah – the birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed and the focal point of the Islamic world.

The Holy City in the Makkah region is a major draw for religious tourism – with approximately 2.4 million believers making the journey last year alone for Hajj. More than triple this number made the Umrah pilgrimage in 2017.

With such a meteoric rise in visitor numbers, the city is undergoing extensive development. The Sacred Mosque – the world’s largest – is partway through a US$26.6 billion (SAR100 billion) expansion to increase its capacity from two million to 3.5 million. At the centre of the site is the Ka’aba, a profoundly important structure considered to be the House of God, towards which Muslims around the world direct prayers five times a day.

To keep up with visitor numbers, Makkah’s accommodation pipeline is moving at a fast pace – with the world’s largest hotel, Abraj Kudai, currently

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under construction. When completed, it will comprise 10,000 rooms, 70 restaurants, a mall and a massive ballroom.

The world’s biggest hospitality brands have a presence in the city, with options including Raffles Makkah Palace, InterContinental Dar Al Tawhid Makkah, Swissôtel Makkah, Le Méridien Makkah and the assortment of hotels which comprise the SAR12 billion (US$3.2 billion) Jabal Omar complex.

The MICE market is flourishing alongside these developments. The city’s first convention centre at Hilton Makkah Convention Hotel, opened last year. The 764-room property has 10 event spaces capable of hosting between 12 and 1,600 people.

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Looking to the future There are several mega-developments underway on the Red Sea Coast.

Announced in August 2017, the Red Sea Tourism Project aims to attract travellers to a 125-mile stretch of coastline, where 50 unused islands will be converted into a luxury destination with first-rate leisure, entertainment and accommodation.

King Abdullah Economic City, an hour north of Jeddah, consists of four major components: King Abdullah Port, Industrial Valley, the Coastal Communities and Hijaz Downtown. The 168 million-square metre development will welcome its first 50,000 residents in 2020, with two million people expected to live there by 2035.

Adding to the area’s historical and religious significance, the outskirts of the city are peppered with important sites. Jabal al-Nour, also known as the Mountain of Light, takes two hours to climb and contains the small Hira cave in which the Prophet Mohammed received his first revelation from the archangel Gabriel. Jabal Thawr is another sacred site visited by Prophet Mohammed, while Al Jamarat in the nearby city of Mina is another crucial stop for Muslims, and forms part of the Hajj. pilgrimage.

To the north, Abha, the capital of the Asir Province, is home to Asir National Park where visitors can discover 300 species of birds. Rijal Almaa Traditional Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can also be found here with 60 palaces built from natural stone, clay and wood.

Another of Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be found at Mada’in Saleh in the Al-Madinah Province. The second largest settlement of the Nabatean kingdom after Petra in Jordan, the archeological site is known for its intricate and well-preserved stone structures.

1 Makkah

5 Asir National Park

9 Hyatt Regency Makkah

12 Swissôtel Makkah

15 Jabal Thawr

2 Ka’aba 3 Jabal al Nour

6 Abha 7 King Abdullah Economic City

10 Raffles Makkah Palace

13 Le Méridien Makkah

16 Al Jamarat

11 InterContinental Dar Al

14 Hilton Makkah Convention

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INSIGHT | GETTING AROUND

All about the journey Navigating the Kingdom couldn’t be easier thanks to a modern transport network

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01: R iyadh, Saudi Arabia 02: Saudi Arabian Airlines 03: Jeddah Taxi

BY AIR Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry continues to blossom, which spells good news for both domestic and international passengers.

Saudia is the obvious choice for flights within the kingdom, as the staterun airline serves all of its 27 airports, although SaudiGulf and low-cost carrier flynas are popular alternatives.

Flight time from Jeddah to Riyadh is around an hour and a half, Riyadh to Dammam takes just over an hour and Dammam to Jeddah approximately two and a half hours.

King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh can handle 12 million annual passengers, thanks to the addition of Terminal 5, which launched in 2016 and is set to be completed next year. Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport is also set to begin a massive three-phase expansion at a cost of US$7.2 billion (SAR27 billion).

The international gateway to Makkah, King Abdulaziz International Airport is just 60 kilometres north of the Holy City. Madinah’s Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport welcomes a growing number of direct flights from the Middle East.

BY CAR Visitors to Saudi Arabia can drive if they possess a valid international licence, although they must carry their passport at all times.

Global car hire companies such as Avis, Budget and Europcar all have a presence in the country and charge a daily rate of roughly US$40 to US$60 (SAR150 to SAR225) for a medium-sized vehicle. If you’re looking for an even more affordable option, local companies offer rates as low as US$15 (SAR56) a day for a small car. As of June 2018, women in the kingdom will also be allowed to drive. Petrol prices are among the cheapest in the world, making driving a cost-effective way to get around.

If you’d rather be driven than take the wheel yourself, local taxis and services such as Uber are available options.

It is advisable to find out the name of your destination in Arabic before you start your journey, and to take a map and the phone number of someone you can call to ask for directions.

Journey prices will vary from place to place and although public cabs run on meters, many drivers prefer to quote a flat fare, which is agreed upon before the trip starts. Bartering is expected and can save a lot of money.

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BY BUS The Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) operates around 600 bus trips per day to destinations throughout the kingdom.

This affordable and comfortable mode of transport can also be used to visit nearby countries from Saudi such as the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Jordan.

VIP services – which offer perks including extra legroom, internet access, food and newspapers – are available on selected routes between Riyadh, Al Khobar, Makkah, Madinah and Bahrain.

Buses can also be chartered for anywhere from a few hours to a few months for larger groups.

Riyadh’s Central Bus Terminal is located in the Aziziyah district.

SAPTCO buses depart regularly for Dammam, while it takes 10 to 12 hours to reach Jeddah or Makkah in the west.

Dammam bus station is located behind Marina Mall at the intersection of 11th Street and Waaqidi Street. There are regular daily departures to cities across the kingdom as well as Bahrain.

SAPTCO buses run to and from Makkah and destinations across the country and, during the annual Hajj, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah has a separate terminal for religious visitors who are transported into town using a dedicated bus service.

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Makkah has two bus terminals, of which only the main terminal outside the city limits is open to all. The citycentre terminal near the Sacred Mosque is restricted to Muslims and is used mainly for buses to Jeddah.

BY RAIL Saudi Arabia is investing heavily to expand its railway network – laying 15,000 kilometres of track for freight, high-speed passenger and urban metro trains at a cost of US$97 billion (SAR364 billion).

This will include the Haramain highspeed train from Makkah to Madinah, which will reach speeds of 200 miles per hour, drastically reducing travel time between the two cities.

The nation’s passenger line spans 733 kilometres and connects Riyadh, Dammam, Al-Ahsa and Abqaiq. The capital is connected to Dammam in the Eastern Province by a daily express train service, which launched in 2016 and reduced the journey between the cities from 270 minutes to 220 minutes.

There is also a railway between Riyadh and Hail, passing through Al Majma’ah and Al Qassim.

Metro transport is set to become a major fixture across Saudi cities, offering a clean and safe alternative to using the very busy urban roads.

Makkah’s 11-mile Al Mashaaer-Al Mugaddassah Metro opened in 2010. It can transport up to 72,000 people per hour to and from the religious sites in and around the city.

The 110-mile Riyadh Metro is scheduled to launch at the start of 2019, with six driverless lines and 85 stations dotted throughout the capital. Further metro projects have been proposed in locations such as Dammam and Jeddah.

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ADVERTORIAL | 1ST ARABIA

Continued success Leading event organisers 1st Arabia are preparing for a busy year as Saudi’s MICE industry goes from strength to strength

It was towards the end of 2016 that Saudi Arabia announced plans to become the leading destination for conferences and exhibitions in the Middle East by 2020. By investing an estimated US$1.6 billion, the kingdom hopes to overhaul venues across the country and attract companies from around the world.

The strategy may have seemed ambitious, but already the rewards are being reaped with 4.5 million people attending the 10,139 business events held during 2017.

With the kingdom enjoying a burgeoning reputation within the MICE industry, leading event organisers such as 1st Arabia are playing a vital role in fuelling further growth. The company are known for delivering creative and innovative conferences and exhibitions, and are fully expecting 2018 to be another stellar year.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been investing significantly in reinforcing its infrastructure as well as transforming and developing the meeting industry within the country.

This is clearly working as the industry is booming,” says Bilal Al Barmawi, Founder and Managing Director of 1st Arabia.

“We have highly-qualified management who have delivered exceptional conferences in the past couple of years, which have played a vital role in the economic growth of the country.

“And we believe that in the next few years there will be a fantastic opportunity to play an even bigger role. That

01: Bilal Barmawi, Founder and Managing Director of 1st Arabia 02 & 03: Events organised by 1st Arabia 04: Saudi Arabia skyline 05: Bilal Barmawi at an exhibition

He says: “We see a lot of opportunities presenting themselves in the coming years as there are more and more first-class hotels and event facilities being built across the country.”

“Saudi Arabia holds a very stable position in the GCC region and there are many big business opportunities still to be explored.

“These opportunities will also be across all sectors, especially with the Saudi 2030 vision placing such an emphasis on promoting the country as a leading destination for business 02

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is because we are confident that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will become one of the key destinations in the meetings industry.”

Providing venue management, onsite training and a host of other services, 1st Arabia has a packed calendar for 2018. The company is organising a host of events throughout the year, including the Saudi International Pharma Expo, Saudi Rehab Equipment Expo, the 4th International Exhibition for People with Special Requirements and The Saudi Interntional Medlab Expo.

With 327 active event venues available across the country - including convention centres, exhibition centres and major event facilities in hotels – Al Barmawi fully expects yet more events to be added to 1st Arabia’s already busy schedule.

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meetings. We are all working to help the kingdom achieve this goal and we are sure that one day we will be able to say we were part of the success.”

In order to help attract more business tourism, Saudi Arabia plans to open 50 new four and five star hotels in the next four years, adding an additional 11,000 rooms to the 41,440 that are already available. With these grand plans in place, it is vital that 1st Arabia are prepared for the influx of visitors and the increase in exhibitions and conferences.

That is why the company are constantly in discussions with two important arms of the Saudi government.

“We are working side by side with both the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities and Saudi Exhibition & Convention Bureau, and we have an excellent relationship with both,” adds Al Barmawi. “By working closely with them we are discussing ways in

“Saudi Arabia holds a very stable position in the GCC region and there are many big business opportunities still to be explored” which we can develop and enhance the MICE industry in the country.

“This is vital as we want to ensure a bright future for the events industry in Saudi Arabia. It is also why we are seeing an increased demand for our consultancy services and out training courses, because as a country we have to be prepared for all the new trends and technologies across all sectors of business.”

With expertise from 1st Arabia and the backing of the government, the events industry within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia appears set to continue its upward trajectory.

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INSIGHT | INTERVIEW

A new vision Spurred on by the pioneering Vision 2030, Saudi Exhibition & Convention Bureau has a firm focus on the future

Transforming everything from leisure to the economy, major change is taking place across all facets of Saudi society as a result of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud’s Vision 2030 strategy. A bold package of economic and social policies designed to move away from a reliance on oil, at the very heart of the plan is an ambition to establish Saudi Arabia as the region’s premier hub for business and MICE tourism.

Formed just over four years ago, the Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau (SECB), has been instrumental in making that vision a reality. Tariq A. Al-Essa, Executive Director of SECB, is confident that raising Saudi’s profile as a major business hub is a goal that can be achieved.

He says: “The SECB aims to be a pioneer. Actually, it operates differently to other convention bureaux around the world. Our mandate is not only

marketing, but also the development of the Saudi meetings industry and positioning it as a global leader.

“Saudi Arabia has a history in hosting meetings going back more than 2,000 years, and of course we have 1,438 years of experience in hosting the largest and most complex meeting on the planet – the ‘Hajj’. In 2017 more than 1.7 million people from 163 countries around the world took part in this exceptional gathering.

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01: Downtown Riyadh 02: Riyadh Metro, artist impression 03: HRH Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud 04: Rendering of Jeddah Tower

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“Saudi Arabia is optimising the role of the meetings industry in order to increase collaboration, knowledge and innovation in key economic sectors across the Kingdom. The meetings industry will definitely drive trade and foreign investment to Saudi Arabia by establishing a foundation for the exchange of information and the development of business relationships.”

A FIRM FOUNDATION While undoubtedly ambitious, there are a number of factors working in Saudi Arabia’s favour when it comes to establishing a leading MICE scene. Strategically located, the kingdom is by far the largest market in the region, with a population of more than 30 million and a gross domestic product (GDP) of close to US$650 billion (SAR2.4 trillion) in 2016.

The expanding infrastructure and facilities are also attractive to MICE planners. Alongside investment in

“Our mandate is not only marketing; but also the development of the Saudi meetings industry and positioning it as a global leader”

airports, roads and railways, more than 50 new four and five-star hotels will open within the next four years, accounting for more than 11,000 rooms.

Privatisation of the aviation sector is making event logistics easier for planners too. In 2016, SaudiGulf became the first privately owned airline to enter the kingdom’s lucrative domestic market, while national carrier Saudia continues its rapid expansion.

In the run up to 2020, the government is investing US$1.6 billion (SAR6 billion) in the Saudi MICE industry, and several centres and venues are set to benefit from this financial boost, including the forthcoming King Salman International Conference Center in Madinah. The state-of-the-art venue is set to accommodate key Islamic conferences, as well

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INSIGHT | INTERVIEW

as large-scale regional and international events, and marks a new direction for one of the kingdom’s holiest sites. Other projects set to benefit from the funding include King Khalid Airport Convention District in the capital, King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, and King Abdulaziz Airport Convention District in Jeddah. Significant expansion of the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) is also on the horizon.

For Al-Essa, as well as welcoming new venues, obstacles to growth in the local events industry need to be overcome in order to continue making great strides ahead – something the SECB has been working on since its inception.

He says: “As a first step, we identified the major obstacles to the Saudi meetings industry growth.

“To deal with the matter of accessibility, we are collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in order to smooth the process to obtain visas for speakers and exhibitors.

“Now international speakers and exhibitors who participate in Saudi business events can issue visas through an e-system and will receive their visa within five business days. In addition, the government is going to release new systems to ease accessibility for business tourists.”

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05: Makkah skyline 06: King Fahd International Airport

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The changes are already starting to bear fruit, with Saudi Arabia’s MICE industry growing 16 percent in 2017, with 10,139 business events held, attracting 4.5 million visitors. Almost half of those events took place in Riyadh, representing more than 15 percent of tourism in the kingdom. Sectors targeted included health care, education, technology and communication, economy and trade, consumer goods and professional services.

GATEWAY TO SUCCESS To foster even more growth in the industry, in 2015 the SECB introduced a US$3.2 million (SAR12 million) events e-gate system.

Al-Essa explains: “All business events happening in Saudi Arabia should be licensed and reported in this e-gate, which has the ability to capture information about the supply and demand for business events held here.

“It provides up-to-date data which can assist business professionals not only in understanding the behaviour of the meetings industry, but the behaviour of all economic sectors in Saudi Arabia.”

He adds: “With an average monthly number of users of around 10,000, the

10,139 BUSINESS EVENTS HELD IN SAUDI ARABIA IN 2017, AN INCREASE OF 16% COMPARED TO 2016

48% OF EVENTS WERE HELD IN RIYADH, 30% IN JEDDAH, 16% IN DAMMAM AND 6% IN OTHER CITIES IN SAUDI ARABIA

788 ACTIVE EVENT MANAGEMENT COMPANIES IN SAUDI ARABIA

327 ACTIVE EVENT VENUES IN SAUDI ARABIA

US$1.6 billion

INVESTMENT IN THE SAUDI MEETINGS INDUSTRY UP TO 2020

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popular system allows SECB to track business events in 22 categories. It is then shared with event organisers and related government agencies to focus the development of events.”

Other successful SECB initiatives include the Envoy Programme, which recruits key figures within Saudi government agencies, associations, chambers and federations to engage with international organisations and discuss partnership opportunities for business events in the country.

Also, last year the Saudi Event Management Academy (SEMA) was launched to train and nurture the next generation of event professionals.

Al-Essa says: “These initiatives will strongly enhance the image of Saudi Arabia as a meetings hub in the region and worldwide, and will make a positive contribution to the economy.

“Our vision is to transform Saudi Arabia into a major destination for meetings in the world”

07: Riyadh skyline 08: Riyadh walk, artist impression

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“Saudi Arabia is the heart of the Arabic and Islamic worlds, it is a pioneering investment powerhouse and the hub connecting three continents. We are creating an environment for successful business events that will attract business, investments and knowledge to Saudi Arabia. Our vision is to transform Saudi Arabia into a major destination for meetings in the world – which we can be.”

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ADVERTORIAL | RIYADH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTER

In line with 2030 vision 01

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01: Riyadh skyline 02 & 03: RICEC

Inspired by the pioneering 2030 vision, the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center (RICEC) is a strategic instrument for the Riyadh Chamber to lead the MICE industry in the kingdom. Through creating a platform that connects organisers from various sectors, RICEC facilitates agreements, transfers its knowledge into the market, and prepares the next generation to further develop the local economy.

MICE travellers enjoy ease of access to RICEC thanks to a great location at the heart of the Saudi capital that is just a short distance from King Khalid International Airport. With remarkable state-of-the-art facilities, the venue highlights the great potential and capabilities of Saudi Arabia, and has a goal to host events and attract participants on state and corporate levels.

RICEC takes great consideration when selecting and creating the right balance of events, serving various industries, and in the process, the whole

society. Working closely with organisers, the team aspires to achieve and exceed the desired outcomes. During the first quarter of 2018, RICEC has hosted several significant exhibitions, such as Automechanika, which was attended by over 150 exhibitors from 21 countries, as well as the Saudi Franchise Expo, attended by in excess of 120 exhibitors from nine countries.

Entertainment has also become a focus for RICEC, which has partnered with relevant government and private-sector organisations to help achieve the goals of the Saudi National Transformation Program 2020. This is by creating an attractive environment for domestic tourism.

RICEC also prides itself in serving the industry with its capabilities and efforts, creating strategic partnerships with organisations such as the National Program for Conventions and Exhibitions in order to further develop this crucial market and position Riyadh to achieve its commercial and economic potential.

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ADVERTORIAL | DHAHRAN EXPO

Leading the way With more than 30 years of experience, Dhahran Expo is playing a crucial role in helping Saudi Arabia become a top destination for the MICE industry Over the course of the last three decades Dhahran Expo has established itself as one of the leading exhibition companies in Saudi Arabia. Hosting a diverse mix of corporate, trade and consumer shows it has helped the country attract a host of international visitors as the kingdom attempts to become the destination of choice for event planners around the world.

Now the company is working closely with the Saudi Exhibition & Conference Bureau in order to help the Kingdom become the leading destination for conferences and exhibitions in the Middle East - a goal that was presented in the Saudi Vision 2030 by Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

“Dhahran Expo is part of the vision and dream of the Kingdom 2030, our ambitions are not only to meet the aspirations of the beneficiaries and partners, but also we are working today on a project considered to be the largest of its kind in the area,” says Abdullah bin Abdullatif Ahmed Alfozan, Chairman of Dhahran Expo.

“This will include a group of touristic, leisure facilities and auditorium.

This project will make Dhahran Expo the focal point of the exhibitions and events industry in the kingdom. It will also help us become the leading destination in business tourism, as well as to be the first place for entertainment and community events in the kingdom and the region.”

Established in 1985 by a leading group of Saudi businessmen, the main aim of Dhahran Expo was always to organise exhibitions and to build an international standard exhibition venue to serve the local economy.

By 1989 the Dhahran International Exhibitions Center was opened and the venue has gone on to become one

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01: Abdullah bin Abdullatif Ahmed Alfozan, Chairman of Dhahran Expo 02, 03 & 05: Dhahran Expo convention centre 04 & 07: Various exhibitions run by Dhahran Expo 06: Abdulrahman Al Jalal, CEO of Dhahran International Exhibitions Company.

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“We are committed to achieving the goals set out in the kingdom’s Vision 2020 and to ‘Inspire Your World”

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of the most prestigious facilities in the region. Spread over an area of more than 100,000 square meters, it has 7,200 square meters of indoor exhibition halls, a banquet hall and an outdoor exhibition area that stretches across 20,000 square meters. There is also a business centre, meeting rooms, VIP halls, warehouse, mosque and ample parking areas.

However, plans are in place to expand and work has already started on enhancing the facilities and developing the venue with renovation plans that will offer increased features and functionality. This is to ensure that the destination remains a landmark and world-class events venue.

The hope is that the expansion will attract even more international exhibitors and conferences, with Dhahran Expo committed to helping Saudi Arabia turn their vision into reality.

“At Dhahran Expo we believe in partnership with the Saudi Exhibition & Conference Bureau (SECB), and this partnership still has a lot of hard and serious work to achieve the objectives of the kingdom’s Vision 2030,” says Abdulrahman Al Jalal, CEO of Dhahran

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International Exhibitions Company.

“We are committed to achieving this goal and to ‘Inspire Your World’.”

The exhibition and conference industry is one of the main pillars of Vision 2030 as the country attempts to create new employment opportunities for the younger generation who are eager to contribute in the development of the economy.

And Dhahran Expo believe that Saudi Arabia’s prime location and advantages as a leader in the field of oil, gas and petrochemicals will help the country becoming a leading player in the MICE industry.

“With our expertise and excellent geographical location we are fast becoming the industry leader in exhibitions and conferences,” adds Al Jalal.

“And we are aware of the role Dhahran Expo has to play in the coming years.

“That is why we have adopted a new strategy where objectives and aims gave been derived from Vision 2030. We have set a three-year operational business plan that started in 2017 and the company are working day and night to develop the infrastructure, facilities and a young team capable of meeting the ambitions and aspirations of our partners.”

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MEET | HOTEL VENUES

Beyond the ordinary Narcissus Hotel and Residence Riyadh

Whether prioritising luxury, location or leisure options, Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning hospitality industry is offering MICE visitors an evermore appealing proposition

The good life Capital delights Venues with a view Modern style Ballroom blitz Prime addresses Makkah vistas

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The good life For luxury at your fingertips, these high-end hotels are perfect for a five-star stay Riyadh Marriott Hotel Located along King Saud Road, Riyadh Marriott Hotel epitomises modern sophistication. A half-hour drive from King Khalid International Airport, the 418-room property has almost 40,000 square feet of meeting and event space across 20 function rooms in its Makarim Convention Centre. Elsewhere, the hotel has a fitness centre and indoor swimming pool, while event planners can take advantage of the brand’s Marriott Meeting Services app.

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Contact: +966 11 4779300 / marriott.com

InterContinental Riyadh Despite being situated in central Riyadh, this expansive hotel boasts a tranquil feel, thanks to 40-hectares of landscaped grounds, including lush gardens and a nine-hole golf course. The spectacular Buraidah Hall can host conferences for up to 1,500 delegates, while the business centre has 13 fully equipped meeting and event rooms. The Insider Collection offered here also curates tailored experiences for any occasion.

Contact: +966 11 4655000 / ihg.com 04

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01 & 03: InterContinental Riyadh 02: Narcissus Hotel and Residence Riyadh 04: Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana

Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana Comprised of 236 rooms over eight floors, this expansive venue is an enticing prospect for any business traveller visiting the Saudi capital. The hotel sits in the bustling Olaya district, and is also close to King Khalid International Airport, shopping hub Tahlia Street and the Kingdom Centre skyscraper and mall. It is also well equipped to host events, with nine state-of-the-art meeting rooms that can be adjusted to suit myriad of purposes. Meanwhile, the spacious Al Mass ballroom is perfect for larger conferences as it can accommodate up to 360 guests.

Contact: +966 11 4479888 / rotana.com

Narcissus Hotel and Residence Riyadh Combining traditional European elegance with modern functionality, Narcissus Hotel and Residence Riyadh boasts nine event venues, consisting of two ballrooms, two meeting rooms and five boardrooms able to host up to 200 guests. A professional meeting planner and catering service can assist with any event no matter the size.

The Al Badia and Al Rimal rooms can host up to 200 guests, while Al Rihab is perfect for smaller board meetings.

Contact: +966 112946300 / narcissus.com

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MEET | HOTEL VENUES

Capital delights These stylish hotels are also centrally located, making it easy for delegates to get where they need to go in Riyadh Crowne Plaza Riyadh Minhal Sleek yet functional, this venue is ideally located for those attending events at the nearby Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Centre, just five minutes from the hotel.

Services for planners include an in-house meetings director who can help organise events for up to 2,000 guests, while the catering team will also lend their expertise. Among the venue options at the hotel is a 180 square-foot meeting room that is capable of hosting 20 people.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Riyadh – Al Muroj Business Gate Positioned next to King Abdullah Financial District, this hotel offers everything a business visitor to Riyadh could ever need. There are six flexible conference rooms that have dedicated staff to help with the organisation of any event. There is also an in-house catering team, while meeting rooms Al Hokair 1 and 2 are capable of hosting a banquet for 96 people. All of the rooms come with state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, as does the 24-hour business centre.

Contact: +966 11 8749200 / crownplaza.com

Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Located in the heart of the city, business guests at this venue can make full use of the hotel’s free internet and comprehensive concierge service. Cultural attractions such as Murabba Palace and Maxmal Fortress are also just a short drive away. Meanwhile, there is a wealth of options for hosting events with 14 meeting rooms covering 986 square metres, as well as the spacious Al Mubarakiah Ballroom which is capable of seating up to 500 guests. There is also a dedicated on-site meetings and event co-ordinator as well as an off-site catering service for up to 1,000 guests.

Contact: +966 11 4791234 / radissonblu.com

05: Crowne Plaza Riyadh Minhal 06 & 08: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Riyadh – Al Muroj Business Gate 07: Radisson Blu Jotel, Riyadh

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Contact: +966 11 5285100 / doubletree3.hilton.com

Riyadh Palace Hotel For more than three decades, both business and leisure guests have frequented this five-star hotel located in the heart of the capital. In recent years its conference halls have been renovated and refurbished with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that events of up to 350 guests are a resounding success. The hotel also has a dedicated team to help with the organisation of events as well as banqueting staff to take care of the catering. There is also the option of hosting outdoor events for up to 2,000 guests at Janadriyah Hall, which has an expansive outdoor garden. The property also has a business centre and offers assorted recreational activities.

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Contact: +966 114054444 / riyadhpalacehotel.com

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Venues with a view Marvel at striking surroundings at these plush properties, whether in a buzzing urban landscape or by a pristine beach The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh This grand five-star hotel sits within 52 acres of opulently landscaped gardens and boasts an eye-watering 62,000 square feet of event space. The award-winning hotel has 492 guest rooms and suites, plus a gentleman’s spa and indoor heated pool. Its conference space is equally impressive with five boardrooms, two meeting rooms and two ballrooms, both of which are capable of accommodating 2,354 guests. The hotel also has meeting services specialists who can provide support for events of any scale, while the hotel’s Chime app allows meeting planners to connect in real-time with event concierges on any web-enabled device.

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Contact: +966 11 8028020 / ritzcarlton.com

Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche Seaside serenity abounds at this venue which overlooks the Arabian Gulf and adds an elegant French touch. A popular choice for business guests, Sofitel’s ‘Inspired Meetings’ concierges are on hand to meet the needs of event organisers who can choose from a range of rooms within the hotel. The Paris Ballroom is capable of accommodating up to 500 guests, while eight further function rooms also boast state-of-the-art technology and sea views. The hotel also has a fantastic catering service offering healthy recipes and taking care of any special dietary needs.

Contact: +966 13 8817000 / sofitel.com

Radisson Blu Hotel Yanbu This 167-room property in Al Madinah Province is a short distance from the Red Sea, where guests can indulge in a range of incentive activities including snorkelling and scuba diving. With the help of a specialist co-ordinator, functions can be arranged in either of the hotel’s two meeting rooms for up to 25 or 50 people. There’s also the option of holding an al fresco event on the Waha Garden Terrace, a delightful setting for receptions of up to 250 guests.

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Contact: +966 14 3223888 / radissonblu.com 09: The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh 10: Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre 11: Radisson Blu Hotel Yanbu 12: Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche

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Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre Guests at this property are guaranteed an unsurpassed view of the Saudi capital, as it sits between the 30th and 50th floors of the Kingdom Centre skyscraper.

Visitors can also head onto its outdoor Sky Bridge for further amazing vistas from this viewing deck 300 metres in the air. The stunning venue is home to a comprehensive business centre and eight rooms capable of hosting a range of events. The most impressive is the Kingdom Ballroom which can welcome up to 3,000 guests. The flexible space can also be easily divided into sections, allowing also for pre-function areas.

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Contact: +966 11 2115000 / fourseasons.com

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MEET | HOTEL VENUES

Modern style With contemporary design touches and state-of-the-art facilities, these hotels offer a creative atmosphere Aloft Riyadh This colourful property immediately stands out from its contemporaries thanks to its colourful and funky exterior. Based on Olaya Street, the hotel has five meeting rooms which can hold anywhere from 14 to 250 guests, with the latest technology on tap. The city centre hotel also allows easy access to plenty of business and leisure hotspots in the capital, with Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre just a 15-minute drive away.

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Contact: +966 11 2341111 / aloftriyadh.com 15

Nobu Hotel Riyadh This 23-storey hotel is set to open this year and will be located in Downtown Riyadh. The five-star luxury venue will have well-equipped meeting rooms, two glittering ballrooms and the kingdom’s very first Nobu Restaurant. The executive lounge and six meeting rooms will be fully equipped with state-of-the-art video conferencing equipment. Meanwhile, ballrooms on the first and third floors will easily be able to accommodate up to 300 guests.

13: Aloft Riyadh 14: Park Inn by Radisson Al Khobar Hotel 15: Nobu Hotel Riyadh 16: Radisson Blu Hotel Jeddah

Contact: +966 122978300 / nobuhotels.com

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Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah Centrally located and just a 15-minute drive from Jeddah International Exhibitions Centre, this venue is home to seven flexible event rooms, the largest of which is the Al Malaz Ballroom capable of hosting up to 300 attendees.

All of the rooms come with free highspeed wireless internet and the latest audio-visual equipment, while a team

of highly trained chefs can provide customised menus and outside catering for up to 1,000 guests.

Contact: +966 12 6521234 / radissonblu.com

Park Inn by Radisson Al Khobar Hotel A bright and modern hotel in the country’s Eastern province, the property offers easy access to the commercial hubs of Jubail, Dammam and Hofuf.

The sleek and tastefully decorated venue has always been popular with business guest thanks to the seven flexible conference rooms and large ballroom that can accommodate up to 150 people. There is also a dedicated inhouse team of planners to help ensure conferences run smoothly, tailoring the modern spaces to the exact requirements of each event. Another popular feature is a selection of private guest rooms positioned on higher, ideal for business meetings.

Contact: +966 13 8100800 / parkinn.com

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Ballroom blitz If you’re seeking a magnificent ballroom to dazzle your delegation, look no further than these opulent venues 17

Al Faisaliah Hotel Connected to the luxury Al Faisaliah Mall, guests staying at this five-star hotel will be greeted at the airport by a representative and transported in a limousine for added style. After arrival, guests are assigned a butler to attend to their every need, while business visitors can make use of the 6,300 square metres of event space. As well as seven boardrooms that are perfect for meetings and intimate banquets, the sprawling Prince Sultan Grand Hall can accommodate 4,000 delegates in conference-style seating and 2,800 guests for dinner banquets. It also has state-of-the-art sound and projection equipment and video conferencing capabilities.

Contact: +966 11 2732000 / alfaisaliahhotels.com

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Mövenpick Hotel Riyadh Conveniently situated close to Olayya Street as well as Riyadh’s key commercial areas, this hotel has plenty to keep any visitor entertained from its huge swimming pool to its atmospheric restaurants.

Its location on King Fahad Road means it is within easy reach of the city’s business district, while there are a dozen meeting venues that are ideal for everything from intimate meetings to large banquets. The Riyadh Grand Ballroom is a stand-out space, which can accommodate up to 1,750 delegates for a theatre-style conference or 1,200 guests for a banquet.

Contact: +966 11 4579999 / movenpick.com

17: Mövenpick Hotel Riyadh 18: Al Faisaliah Hotel 19: Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Riyadh

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Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Riyadh A peaceful oasis in the middle of bustling Riyadh, this luxurious venue offers a wide variety of dining experiences in outstanding restaurants, a classic European spa and two separate swimming pools for men and women. The hotel also has an impressive offering for business visitors with 19 meetings rooms all boasting the latest technology and capable of hosting at least 20 guests. In addition there are six ballrooms, with the grand Rafal Ballroom earning a reputation as one of the most impressive venues in the city thanks to its opulent interior and ability to accommodate up to 2,000 people.

Contact: +966 11 5117777 / kempinski.com

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MEET | HOTEL VENUES

Prime addresses Maximise your next business trip to Saudi Arabia with a stay at these perfectly positioned hotels Crowne Plaza Jeddah Enjoy the calm of the ocean and the fun of the corniche with a stay at Crowne Plaza Jeddah. The property has 11 meeting rooms spread across more than 6,300 square feet, the largest of which can accommodate up to 70 people.

Elsewhere, the business centre is open 24 hours a day, or head outside to see a show at King Fahd’s Fountain, which shoots water from the Red Sea more than 1,000 feet in the air. Slightly further out are entertainment options such as Jeddah Zoo.

Sofitel Jeddah Corniche Set by the Red Sea, this property boasts a calm and secluded feel, while remaining convenient for those with business in the city. The hotel is a half-hour drive from King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah International Exhibition & Convention Center is approximately 20 minutes away. The 191-room property also has a ballroom that can accommodate 900 guests, as well as a first floor meeting room that can host 21 people. Leisure options include a swimming pool, spa and Jacuzzi.

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Contact: +966 12 6611000 / ihg.com

Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Olaya With stylish spaces and an expert events team, this spacious hotel is a sterling choice for MICE planners. The hotel’s Olaya Hall can accommodate 220 guests theatre-style, while the two meeting rooms provide flexible conference space. Meeting packages also offer buffet options for lunch or dinner, as well as the latest audiovisual technology. Guests can also head out and browse the trendy area’s many shops and restaurants or remain in the property and take advantage of the business centre.

Contact: +966 11 2935533 / hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com

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Contact: +966 12 6139000 / sofitel.com

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Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya Whatever the event, this venue has 1,000 square metres of flexible meeting space in the heart of one of the city’s most bustling areas. There are five meeting rooms with adjoining social spaces and terraces on the first floor and a large ballroom on the ground floor. There is also a dedicated catering team that can create customised menus to suit any occasion.

Business guests can also take advantage of the luxurious spa and swimming pool.

20 & 21: Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Olaya 22: Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya 23 & 24: Sofitel Jeddah Corniche

Contact: +966 11 2881234 / hyatt.com

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Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel and Convention Center This newly opened 326-room hotel is strategically located in Al Ra’idah Digital City (RDC), a mixed use district that is expected to accommodate over 20,000 employees and up to 10,000 residents once completed. The venue itself is set to become a favourite for business guests with over 12,000 square metres of exhibition and conference space. This includes a three-level circular conference centre, a ballroom, large pre-function areas and 12 meeting rooms.

Contact: 966 11 8749200 / ihg.com

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Makkah vistas As business tourism emerges as a major force across the country, Makkah is now also home to some excellent corporate options 26

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25: Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel 26: Raffles Makkah Palace 27: Raffles Makkah Palace

Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel Located next to the Grand Mosque, this huge Fairmont property offers pilgrims excellent hospitality and convenience during their time in the Holy City. It contains a total of 1,618 guestrooms and residences, spread out over 76 floors in the Abraj Al Bait Complex, with incredible views of the area. MICE facilities are also available, with eight fully-equipped meeting rooms plus the majestic Al Jiwar Grand Ballroom, which spans more than 23,000 square feet and can host events for up to 2,000 guests. A business centre, video conferencing facility, media room with live broadcast capabilities and live translation room add to its impressive offering.

Contact: +966 12 5717777 / fairmont.com

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Raffles Makkah Palace All of the hotel’s 214 suites look out onto the Grand Mosque, while the property is surrounded by other holy sites including Zamzam Well and Jabal Al Nour. Raffles Makkah Palace can be found within the Abraj Al Bait Complex, which includes a four-floor mall, prayer hall for up to 10,000 worshippers, a convention centre for up to 1,500 people, a museum and a lunar observatory. Within the hotel, which has its own butler service, there are also ladies and gents fitness clubs, a business centre and five meeting rooms that offer the latest high-tech equipment Contact: +966 12 5717888 / raffles.com

Swissotel Makkah The chain’s first property in the Middle East when it opened back in 2010, the hotel is part of the Abraj Al Bait Complex, which is already fast becoming a popular destination for business guests. The expansive hotel has almost 1,500 guestrooms and embodies a modern style with nods to traditional Arabian aesthetics. The venue also has a fully equipped business centre, providing guests with everything they need to stay connected during their stay. The property also boasts a meeting room that has a capacity for 14 people, while the hotel’s designated meeting concierges are on hand to deal with any requests and ensure each event runs smoothly.

Contact: +966 12 5718000 / swissotel.com

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MEET | ALTERNATIVE VENUES

Watch this space In addition to hotel-based meeting venues and major convention centres, Saudi Arabia has a growing number of out-of-the-box offerings that should be on every planner’s list

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King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Eastern Province Designed by Norwegian architectural firm Snohetta, and developed by oil company Saudi Aramco, this spectacular multi-purpose facility in Dhahran boasts state-of-the-art design around a series of striking pebble-like structures. The centre, which was planned for almost a decade before its soft opening last year, is a major cultural development within the Eastern Province.

Its aim is to build local knowledge, as well as nurture the creative sectors.

There’s also plenty for planners looking for unique venues, with 100,000 square metres of function space. There’s a 930-seat auditorium, a stunning library

venue option, complete with 200,000 books, and the expansive Great Hall, which is perfect for large-scale events.

Elsewhere, the Knowledge Tower hosts 2,000 annual workshops in a variety of academic subject areas. The centre will be fully open, after its soft launch phase, come summer 2018.

Contact: +966 13 8760455 / kingabdulazizcenter.com

Nayyara, Riyadh Modern elegance abounds at Nayyara, which has provided an enticing banqueting and conference venue in Riyadh since 1990. Operated by the event management company of the same name, the building boasts an array of flexible spaces to host anything from a small business meeting to a lavish

01 & 02: The King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture, Eastern Province 03: N ayyara, Riyadh 04: Marina & Yacht Club, Jeddah 05: R iyadh Sports Garden, Riyadh

gala reception. For corporate functions, two flexible and interconnected halls can be tailored to specific requirements – with a full range of audio-visual equipment available as needed. Largely column-free, and measuring 4,000 square metres, the halls allow for multiple configurations of up to 2,500 people and can be divided into two or three independent sections. Two smaller halls are ideally suited for mediumsized get-togethers, and also come with assorted high-tech features such as an HD projector and state-of-the-art digital sound system. The company’s conference department is also on hand to help with all the details – from budgeting to advertising and registration.

Contact: +966 11 4806655 / nayyara.com

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02

Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Science & Technology Center (Scitech), Eastern Province A haven of creativity and learning, Scitech is certain to capture the attention of any visiting delegate. The educational hub on the Al Khobar Corniche comprises seven halls housing 350 exhibits related to science and technology. Scitech also boasts its own IMAX dome theatre, showing films about nature, which seats almost 200 people and can be hired out for private functions. Elsewhere on the 21,700 square metre site, the Astronomic Observatory teaches visitors secrets of the cosmos, while the centre’s conference facilities are another option for MICE planners hoping to make an impression. Scitech is affiliated with the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Located in nearby Dhahran, the university has its own modern conference centre with an auditorium that can fit 120 people and four smaller 30-capacity meeting rooms.

Contact: +966 13 8967777 / scitech.com.sa

03

Modern elegance abounds at Nayyara, which has provided an enticing banqueting and conference venue in Riyadh since 1990

04

Al Furusiya Marina, Yacht Club & Boutique Gallery, Jeddah The glamorous Al Furusiya Marina, Yacht Club & Boutique Gallery sits along Jeddah Corniche with fabulous views of the Red Sea from its indoor and outdoor event spaces. A chic foyer leads into a 1,000 square metre exhibition area with an open terrace, all of which can be tailored towards the occasion at hand.

Also outside is a 200-metre marina walkway, offering even more options for planners seeking that wow factor.

Some of events previously held at the venue in the Al Hamra District include Jeddah Art Week, Saudi International Boat Show and car launches from BMW, Maserati and Audi.

Contact: +966 12 2840792 / dcpsite.com

05

Riyadh Sports Garden Part of the Riyadh Golf Courses leisure destination, this 40,000-square-metre venue offers a stunning setting for a special event – surrounded by date palms and greenery. The space, located 20-minutes from the capital’s city centre, can be used for a plethora of get-togethers including company functions and team building. Full catering and transportation services are offered to those hiring out the garden, which features amenities such as swimming pools, tennis, football, mini golf and a playground. Golf lovers can also hit the fairways on the par-72 championship course, while the clubhouse has a restaurant and cafeteria to unwind after an active day out.

Contact: +966 55 7399900 / riyadhgolfcourses.com

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STAY

Dubai’s vibrant hospitality scene provides ample choice when it comes to hotel venues. Here’s our selection of the best, with details on all they have to offer

01

02

03

01: Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski 02: InterContinental Riyadh 03: Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana

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STAY | HOTEL VENUES

H H H H H

Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski

P.O. Box 13315, King Fahad Road 7647, Al Sahafa District, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 5117777 | meetings.burjrafal@kempinski.com | kempinski.com/riyadh

Total number of guestrooms: 349 Number of suites: 112 Disabled facilities: Yes Location: Al Sahafa District, Riyadh Distance to airport: King Khalid International Airport , 27 kilometres Leisure highlights: Two separate fitness centres and swimming pools for ladies and gentlemen, located on the 6th floor of the hotel overlooking Riyadh’s growing skyline; a wellness spa operated

by Resense; tennis and squash courts and a children’s play area.

F&B facilities: • Le Bijou (French cafe with a terrace) • Aroma Restaurant (all-day dining serving an international buffet and Saturday Brunch) • Tugra Restaurant (fine-dining Ottoman cuisine with daily a la carte menu and Sultan dinner buffet every Wednesday) • El Capitolio (cigar lounge).

MEETING ROOMS

Area (sqm)

Ceiling height (m)

Reception

Theatre

Banquet

Cocktail

Classroom

U-Shape

Boardroom

Rafal Ballroom

1960 10

Pre-Function

427 3 - - - 500 - - -

Sari

47 3 - - - - - - 14

- 1500 1400 2000 750 200 300

Majdool

55 3 - - - - - - 12

Sukarri

84 3 - 50 40 40 24 24 24

Barhi

79 3 - 50 40 40 24 24 24

Rashoudia

69 3 - 40 30 32 24 20 20

Ajwa

178 3

Safawi

57 3 - - - - - - 18

- 100 80 100 48 40 50

Khlas

58 3 - - - - - - 14

Rothana

89 3 - 50 40 40 24 24 24

Anbara

88 3 - 50 40 40 24 24 24

Thawee

74 3 - 40 30 32 24 20 20

Khodary

140 3 - 80 60 80 40 40 40

WHY THIS HOTEL? Located in the heart of the new commercial and business district of Riyadh, Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski enjoys a prestigious location overlooking King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). The five star property invites guests to experience a taste of luxury combining European elegance with Arabian hospitality.

The hotel has 21 meeting rooms and a 2000sqm ballroom.

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STAY | HOTEL VENUES

H H H H H

Jeddah Hilton

PO Box 128428, North Corniche Road, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia +966 92 0003800 | jedhi.cb@hilton.com | jeddah.hilton.com

Total number of guestrooms: 388 Number of suites: 33 Disabled facilities: Yes Location: Jeddah Distance to airport: King Abdulaziz International Airport, 20 kilometres Leisure highlights: Jeddah Hilton Hotel is within easy reach of sandy beaches and the spectacular new Jeddah Waterfront. Visit The Historical Jeddah to shop in souqs or marvel at the Floating Mosque.

F&B facilities: • Al Safina Restaurant: Savour the flavor of various cuisines from around the globe • Amwaj: An international buffet with dishes ranging from sumptuous seafood to succulent roasts.

• Cafe Vienna: Sip a tea or coffee, accompanied by a sandwich in this elegant café.

• Ginger Leaf: Sample a range of Indian delicacies • Manhattan Sport Diner: Choose from a range of delicious all-American favorites fom hearty burgers to tender steaks

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MY

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CMY

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• Aromi and Mataam Al Sharq: Located in the adjacent Waldorf Astoria Jeddah - Qasr Al Sharq providing the finest Italian and Lebanese dining experience.

WHY THIS HOTEL? MEETING ROOMS Hilton Hall

Area (sqm)

Ceiling height (m)

Reception

Theatre

Banquet

Cocktail

Classroom

U-Shape

Boardroom

3600

10

5000

3600

1400

4000

2000

700

500

Al Qasr Ballroom

1416

6

2000

1200

500

1000

350

200

200

Amwaj View

330

4

400

200

200

200

100

80

100

Madinah

120

2.5

100

70

48

40

40

26

18

Riyadh

105

2.5

80

50

40

35

28

20

18

Dhahran

100

2.5

80

50

40

35

28

20

16

Taif

95

2.5

50

40

40

35

22

16

14

Jeddah

85

2.5

70

40

40

35

22

20

12

Dammam

65

2.5

50

40

40

35

25

15

15

Hada

45

2.5

30

40

30

25

20

13

15

Khobar

45

2.5

30

40

30

25

20

13

15

Baha

45

2.5

-

-

-

-

-

-

6

Abha

30

2.5

-

-

-

-

-

-

10

Hail

30

2.5

-

-

-

-

-

-

12

Just a 15-minute drive from King Abdul Aziz Airport (JED), rooms provide stunning panoramic views of the Red Sea and the ancient city of Jeddah. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a trip to our tranquil, serene spa and relax with a massage or indulge in a specialised spa treatment.

Our culinary team is eager to satisfy every appetite, while we have a wealth of event space.

Hilton Hall can accomodate 3,500 guests or choose from a variety of other flexible meeting rooms or our outdoor event space that can welcomes up to 1,000 people.

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Y

Y

Y

K

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STAY | HOTEL VENUES

H H H H H

InterContinental Riyadh PO Box 3636, Riyadh, 11481, King Saud Road, Saudi Arabia +966 11 4655000 | sales.icriyadh@ihg.com | intercontinental.com/riyadh

Total number of guestrooms: 274 Number of suites: 61 Disabled facilities: Yes Location: King-Saud Road, Riyadh Distance to airport: King Khalid International Airport, 40 kilometres Leisure highlights: The Palms Fitness Club offers the most extensive leisure facilities in Riyadh including: a 9-hole executive grass golf course with floodlights and Club House; a 24-hour Health Club equipped with the latest fitness machines; a 26 metre outdoor swimming pool; heated indoor pool; 3 floodlit tennis courts; 3 Squash courts; 12 lane ten pin bowling alley; sauna and steam room; fully qualified fitness, golf and tennis instructor.

F&B facilities: • Mondo: offers innovative fusion cuisine from all over the world.

• Al Bustan: all day dining with international buffet and a-la-carte-menu • Al Diywan Lounge: serves a fine selection of pastries, savouries and sandwiches.

• Golf Restaurant: Overlooking the golf course, it serves light breakfast, lunch and dinner • Al Baylasan Lounge: Enjoy a variety of assorted desserts, of

MEETING ROOMS

Area (sqm)

Ceiling height (m)

Reception

Theatre

Banquet

Cocktail

Classroom

U-Shape

Boardroom

Buraidha Hall

1331

5 to 9

1500

1100

390

1500

350

160

300

Main Ballroom

1200

5

1000

1000

330

1000

300

220

300

Al Yaqoot

105

2.5

60

60

36

60

36

26

30

Al Zumurrud A&B

84

2.5

50

50

24

50

24

24

22

Al Zumurrud A

42

2.5

20

20

12

20

12

12

14

Al Zumurrud B

42

2.5

20

20

12

20

12

12

14 28

Al Lazurd

80

2.5

40

50

24

40

24

24

Al Opal

55

2.5

-

-

-

-

-

-

18

Al Jawhara A&B

191

2.5

100

100

72

100

60

50

60

Al Jawhara A

95

2.5

50

50

30

50

30

24

30

Al Jawhara B

95

2.5

50

50

30

50

30

24

30

Al Topaz

101

2.5

60

60

36

60

36

24

20

Al Quartz

99

2.5

50

50

30

50

30

22

26

Al Fairouz

58

2.5

30

30

12

30

14

14

15

Al Murjan

54

2.5

30

35

18

30

24

20

22

Al Muhannad

112

3

70

70

60

70

35

35

40

WHY THIS HOTEL? The hotel enjoys a unique location surrounded by 100 acres of lush gardens in the heart of Riyadh.

The hotel has 274 guest rooms and suites. Facilities within the spacious guest rooms and 24-hour Business Centre includes wireless high-speed Internet access. The Club InterContinental offers benefits and privileges with 74 Club InterContinental rooms and suites. Club guests may enjoy private express check-in, and Club Lounge access which serves complimentary breakfast snacks and all-day refreshments.

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YOUR MEETING IS JUST THE BEGINNING.

N E W YORK L ON D ON PARI S

R I YA D H

Beyond luxurious places to suit any gathering, our team provides a seamless service from start to finish and the know-how to make every meeting or event a success. In addition, our Insider Collection offers a range of delegate experiences, which reflect the unique character of each destination.

For bookings & information please call 00966114655000 or visit www.intercontinental.com/riyadh

D OHA D U B AI B AN G KOK KU AL A L U M P U R SI N G AP ORE SHAN G HAI SYD N E Y

Live the InterContinental life.

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STAY | HOTEL VENUES

H H H H H

Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana PO Box 9295, Olaya St, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12241, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4479888 | rosh.rayhaan@rotana.com | rotana.com

Total number of guestrooms: 236 Number of suites: 27 Disabled facilities: Yes Location: Al Olaya, Riyadh Distance to airport: King Khalid International Airport, 39 kilometres Leisure highlights: The hotel offers distinctive restaurants and lounges, each with its own unique style, ensuring guests enjoy an exquisite dining experience without ever needing to step outside the property. With its multi-functional venues, inclusive of 12 meeting rooms and a spacious ballroom, Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana is fully equipped to host the surge of events within the kingdom, from lavish weddings and major conferences to exhibitions.

F&B facilities: • Flavours all day dining (International) • Spectrum (Thai, Chinese, Japanese Sushi, Indian and Italian) • Sama lounge (Oriental and International) • Caramel lobby lounge (Beverages and light meals) • Oasis pool café (Light snacks, beverages)

MEETING ROOMS

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CMY

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WHY THIS HOTEL? Area (sqm)

Ceiling height (m)

Reception

Al Mas Ballroom

275

6

Al Mas Meeting Room 1

78

6

Al Mas Meeting Room 2

90

6

Theatre

Banquet

Cocktail

Classroom

U-Shape

Boardroom

-

275

252

360

180

80

90

-

100

72

90

55

35

45

-

120

72

120

60

35

45 50

Al Mas Meeting Room 3

104

6

-

140

108

120

75

40

Meeting Plus 1+2

320

3

-

180

228

320

-

-

-

Meeting Plus 1

165

3

-

150

144

160

135

60

75

Meeting Plus 2

155

3

-

90

96

140

70

55

60

Meeting Plus 3

38

3

-

35

25

-

20

18

22

Meeting Plus 4

54

3

-

40

25

-

20

18

22

Meeting Plus 5

39.2

3

-

40

25

-

20

18

22

Meeting Plus 6

35

3

-

40

25

-

20

18

22

Meeting Plus 7

39

3

-

40

25

-

20

18

22

Meeting Plus 8

31

3

-

25

15

-

17

12

18

Located in the heart of Riyadh city, the 5-star Rosh Rayhaan

by Rotana provides a great experience for both business and leisure seekers. The hotel offers a unique dining experience with five venues. Guests can stay fit and relax at Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club, the fully equipped gymnasium with an outdoor temperature controlled swimming pool. The meeting rooms and multifunctional venues are ready to host a variety of events and exhibitions.

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Spectrum Al Mas Ballroom

The Place to stay at the heart of Olaya street

Y

Located in the heart of Riyadh city, the 5-star Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana offers 236 splendid rooms and suites, the hotel features distinctive food and beverage venues, Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club with a rooftop swimming pool and a host of meeting spaces to cater to every need.

Whether for business or leisure, enjoy the unique experience at Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana.

Enjoy free Wi-Fi when booking via rotana.com For reservations and more information, please visit rotana.com, email rosh.rayhaan@rotana.com or contact .

MEET SAUDI 2018_FACTSHEET___Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana_TS.indd 57

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ABHA

ABHA INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL

Fitness centre (Y/N)

Beachfront (Y/N)

Swimming pool/s (Y/N)

Spa (Y/N)

Total No. of caf s

Total No. of restaurants

Business Centre (Y/N)

Group leisure activities (Y/N)

Off-site catering (Y/N)

Capacity of largest outdoor space

Outdoor space available (Y/N)

Conference equipment (Y/N)

Capacity of largest meeting room

Total No. of meeting rooms

Total meeting space (sqm)

In-room Internet access (Y/N)

Disabled facilities (Y/N)

Group check-in (Y/N)

Number of suites/villas

Total number of guestrooms

Distance from airport (km)

Location: resort/city

STAY | LISTINGS

HHHHH

PO Box 1447, Abha 08, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 17 2247777 | ahbha.hotel@ichotelsgroup.com | ihg.com

AL JUBAIL

AL AHSA

C 45 130 20 Y Y Y 1,590 8 560 Y Y - Y - Y 4 - Y Y N Y

AL AHSA INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 5399, Al Ahsa 31982, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 5335555 | alahsa@ihg.com | ihg.com C 160 166 20 Y

Y Y 2,106 10 2,900 Y Y - Y - Y 5 - Y Y N Y

INTERCONTINENTAL AL JUBAIL

HHHHH

PO Box 10167, Tareeq 101, Al Jubail 31961, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 3564000 | hotel@icjubail.com.sa | ihg.com C 95 255 63 Y Y Y 480 5 450 Y Y - Y Y Y 3 1 Y Y Y Y

CARLTON AL MOAIBED HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 1235, Al Khobar 31952, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8575455 | info@carltonalmoaibedhotel.com | carltonalmoaibedhotel.com C 65 207 48 Y Y Y 1,392 10 1,100 Y Y - Y Y Y 8 - Y Y N Y

LE MERIDIEN AL KHOBAR

HHHHH

PO Box 1266, Al Khobar 31952, Corniche Boulevard, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8969000 | reservation.alkhobar@lemeridien.com | lemeridienalkhobar.com C 40 333 29 N Y Y 493 14 450 Y Y - Y Y Y 2 1 Y Y Y Y

AL KHOBAR

MOVENPICK HOTEL AL KHOBAR

HHHHH

PO Box 4923, Al Khobar 31952, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8984999 | hotel.alkhobar@moevenpick.com | moevenpick-alkhobar.com C 60 121 22 Y Y Y 1,600 10 1,200 Y Y - Y Y Y 4 - Y Y N Y

MOVENPICK BEACH RESORT AL KHOBAR

HHHHH

PO Box 4784, Al Khobar 31952 , Half Moon bay Road, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8492999 | resort.alkhobar@moevenpick.com | moevenpick-alkhobar-beach.com R/C 55 36 - Y Y Y 123 3 120 Y Y - Y Y N 2 - Y Y Y Y

PARK INN BY RADISSON AL KHOBAR

HHHH

PO Box 2408, Al Rawabi District King Faisal Bin Abdulaziz Road Al Khobar 31952, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8100800 | info.alkhobar@rezidorparkinn.com | parkinn.com/hotel-al-khobar C 45 148 14 Y Y Y 624 7 200 Y Y - Y N Y 1 1 Y Y N Y

SOFITEL AL KHOBAR THE CORNICHE

HHHHH

PO Box 70300, South Corniche Road, Al Khobar 31952, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8817000 | H5988@sofitel.com | sofitel.com/5988 C 52 229 - Y Y Y 630 9 250 Y - - N Y Y 2 1 Y Y N Y

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Fitness centre (Y/N)

Beachfront (Y/N)

Swimming pool/s (Y/N)

Spa (Y/N)

Total No. of caf s

Total No. of restaurants

Business Centre (Y/N)

Group leisure activities (Y/N)

Off-site catering (Y/N)

Capacity of largest outdoor space

Outdoor space available (Y/N)

Conference equipment (Y/N)

Capacity of largest meeting room

Total No. of meeting rooms

Total meeting space (sqm)

In-room Internet access (Y/N)

Disabled facilities (Y/N)

Group check-in (Y/N)

Number of suites/villas

Total number of guestrooms

Distance from airport (km)

Location: resort/city

AL QASSIM

HHHHH

RAMADA HOTEL AL QASSIM PO Box 210, Al Bukayriah, Al Qassim 51941, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 16 3366666 | info@ramadaalqassim.com | ramadaalqassim.com C 15 69 49 Y Y Y 2,000 1 450 Y Y - Y - Y

1 - Y Y N Y

HHHH

GOLDEN TULIP AL HAMRA HOTEL

DAMMAM

PO Box 1411, King Khaled Street, Dammam 31431, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8333444 | info@goldentulipalhamra.com | goldentulipalhamra.com C 42 148 18 Y Y Y 215 5 200 Y Y - Y Y Y 2 1 N Y N Y

HHHHH

SHERATON DAMMAM HOTEL & TOWERS PO Box 5397, Dammam 31422, 1st Street, Convention Centre, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 13 8345555 | dammam@sheraton.com | sheratondammam.com

C 40 274 44 Y Y Y 1,510 14 3,000 Y Y - Y Y Y 3 1 Y Y N Y

HHHHH

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL JEDDAH PO Box 10924, Al Corniche, Al Maadi Road, Jeddah 21443, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 6611000 | info.cpjeddah@ihg.com | crowneplaza.com/jeddahsa

C 30 323 95 Y Y Y 1,200 9 110 Y Y - Y Y Y 3 1 N Y N Y

HHHHH

INTERCONTINENTAL JEDDAH HOTEL PO Box 41855, Al Hamra Corniche, Jeddah 21531, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 2295555 | intercontinental.jeddah@ihg.com | ihg.com/jeddah

C 35 300 37 Y Y Y 884 9 1,000 Y Y - Y Y Y 3 1 Y Y N Y

HHHHH

JEDDAH HILTON

JEDDAH

PO Box 128428, North Corniche Road, Jeddah 21362, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 92 0003800 | info.jeddah@hilton.com | jeddah.hilton.com C 20 388 33 Y Y Y 7,500 13 3,500 Y Y 1,000 Y

(see advertisement on page 53) Y Y

LE MERIDIEN JEDDAH

5 2 Y Y Y Y

HHHHH

PO Box 11633, Medinah Road Corner Tahlia Street, Jeddah 21463, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 6633333 | sales.lmjeddah@meridien.com | lemeridien.com/Jeddah C 20 263 30 Y Y Y 570 8 500 Y Y - Y Y Y

MAKARIM ANNAKHEEL HOTEL & RESORT

3 - Y Y N Y

HHHHH

PO Box 23526, North Obhur, Jeddah, 21436, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 6562101 | reservation.nakheel@makarem.sa | makarem.sa C 15 43 112 Y N Y - 5 100 Y Y - Y Y Y 2 - Y Y Y Y

PARK HYATT JEDDAH MARINA, CLUB AND SPA

HHHHH

PO Box 5863, Jeddah 21432, Al Hamra District, Southern Corniche, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 2639666 | jeddah.park@hyatt.com | jeddah.park.hyatt.com C 30 142 15 Y Y Y 756 7 800 Y Y - Y Y Y 3 - Y Y Y Y

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Fitness centre (Y/N)

Beachfront (Y/N)

Swimming pool/s (Y/N)

Spa (Y/N)

Total No. of caf s

Total No. of restaurants

Business Centre (Y/N)

Group leisure activities (Y/N)

Off-site catering (Y/N)

Capacity of largest outdoor space

Outdoor space available (Y/N)

Conference equipment (Y/N)

Capacity of largest meeting room

Total No. of meeting rooms

Total meeting space (sqm)

In-room Internet access (Y/N)

Disabled facilities (Y/N)

Group check-in (Y/N)

Number of suites/villas

Total number of guestrooms

Distance from airport (km)

Location: resort/city

STAY | LISTINGS

HHHH

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, JEDDAH PO Box 8483, Madinah Road, Jeddah 21482, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 6521234 | reservations.jeddah@radissonblu.com | radissonblu.com/hotel-jeddah

C 15 292 35 Y Y Y 1,189 7 220 Y N - Y Y Y 2 1 N Y N Y

RADISSON BLU ROYAL SUITE HOTEL JEDDAH

HHHHH

JEDDAH

PO Box 11718, Jeddah 21463, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 2630000 | mahmoud.ammar@radissonblu.com | radissonblu.com/royalhotel-jeddah C 10 83 - Y Y Y 186 7 150 Y Y - Y Y Y 1 1 N Y N Y

HHHHH

SHERATON JEDDAH HOTEL PO Box 14315 North Corniche Jeddah 21424, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 6992212 | reservations@sheraton.com | sheratonjeddah.com

R/C 20 149 12 Y Y Y 760 7 300 Y Y - Y - N 2 - Y Y N Y

HHHHH

SOFITEL JEDDAH CORNICHE PO Box 51991 North Corniche Hira Road, Jeddah 21553 , Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 6139000 | h9275@sofitel.com | sofitel.com/sofitel-jeddah-corniche

C 25 191 64 Y Y Y 1,113 2 900 Y Y - N - Y 4 2 Y Y Y Y

MAJLIS GRAND MERCURE MEDINA

HHHHH

MADINAH

PO Box 7714, Central Area, Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 14 8206111 | H9516-GM@accor.com | accorhotels.com/majlis-grand-mercure-madinah C 14 354 - Y Y Y 120 5 80 Y Y - Y N N 2 1 N N N Y

HHHHH

PULLMAN ZAMZAM MADINA PO Box 40233, Amr Bin Al Gmoh Street Madina, Madinah 41499, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 14 8210500 | H9245@accor.com | pullman-zamzam-madina.com

C 10 836 - Y Y Y - - - - Y - Y N N 3 1 N N N N

AL SHOHADA HOTEL AKMC

HHHHH

PO Box 10056, Ajyad Street, Makkah 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5744401 | reservations@alshohada-akmc.com | alshohadahotel-akmc.com

MAKKAH

C 90 494 50 Y Y Y 1,854 2 1,230 Y Y - Y - Y 2 - Y

INTERNATIONAL DAR AL TAWHID MAKKAH

N N N

HHHHH

PO Box 2728, Ibrahim Al Khalil Road, Makkah, 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5295000 | intercontinental.daraltawhid@ihg.com | ihg.com C 100 282 143 Y Y Y 40 1 12 Y - - - - Y 1 - Y Y N Y

MAKARIM AJYAD MAKKAH HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 6020, Makkah 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5720500 | reservations.aiyad@makarem.sa | makarem.sa C 45 411 12 Y Y Y 650 2 70 Y Y - Y - Y 3 - N

N N N

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Fitness centre (Y/N)

Beachfront (Y/N)

Swimming pool/s (Y/N)

Spa (Y/N)

Total No. of caf s

Total No. of restaurants

Business Centre (Y/N)

Group leisure activities (Y/N)

Off-site catering (Y/N)

Capacity of largest outdoor space

Outdoor space available (Y/N)

Conference equipment (Y/N)

Capacity of largest meeting room

Total No. of meeting rooms

Total meeting space (sqm)

In-room Internet access (Y/N)

Disabled facilities (Y/N)

Group check-in (Y/N)

Number of suites/villas

Total number of guestrooms

Distance from airport (km)

Location: resort/city

MAKARIM UMM ALQURA HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 7020, Al Rawabi, Ajyad Street. Makkah 24234, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5356100 | reservation.ummalqura@makarem.sa | makarem-umm-alqura-hotel.com C 75 312 24 Y Y Y - 5 250 Y - - - - Y 1 - N

MAKKAH CLOCK ROYAL TOWER, A FAIRMONT HOTEL

N N N

HHHHH

PO Box 762, King Abdul Aziz Endowment, Abraj Al Bait Complex, Makkah 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5717777 | makkah@fairmont.com | fairmont.com/makkah C 80 1,618 138 Y

Y

Y 2,400 8 1,800 Y Y - Y - Y 10 - N N N Y

PULLMAN ZAMZAM MAKKAH

HHHHH

MAKKAH

PO Box 3344, Abraj Al Bait Complex, King Abdel Aziz Endowment, Makkah 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5715555​ | h6036@accor.com | accorhotels.com/pullman-zamzam-makkah C 85 1315 - Y Y Y - - - Y Y - N N N 2 1 N N N N

RAFFLES MAKKAH PALACE

HHHHH

PO Box 1281, King Abdul Aziz Endowment, Makkah 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5717888 | makkah@raffles.com | raffles.com/makkah C 80 214 214 - Y Y 61 5 80 Y Y - Y - Y 3 1 Y Y N Y

SWISSÔTEL ALMAQAM MAKKAH

HHHHH

PO Box 762, King Abdul Aziz Endowment Ibrahim Al Khalil Street, Makkah 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5775888 | reservations.almaqam@swissotel.com | swissotel.com C 80 1,624 - Y Y Y - - - Y Y - N N N 1 1 N N N N

SWISSOTEL MAKKAH

HHHHH

PO Box 3281, King Abdul Aziz Endowment Ajyad Street, Makkah 21955, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 5718000 | makkah@swissotel.com | swissotel.com C 80 1,487 - Y Y Y 32 1 14 Y N - N N Y 1 1 N N N N

AL FAISALIAH HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 4148, King Fahad Road, Riyadh, 11491, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 112732000 | reservations.riyadh@ralfaisaliahhotels.com | alfaisaliahhotels.com C 45 330 113 Y

Y Y 4,446 9 4,000 Y Y - Y - Y 4 - Y Y N Y

HHHHH

RIYADH

ALOFT RIYADH PO Box 2385 Olaya St., Riyadh 12611-9242, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2341111 | malek.fakhro@alofthotels.com | alofthotels.com

C 44 287 16 Y Y Y 160 5 270 Y Y - - Y 3 1 1 N Y N Y

BURJ RAFAL HOTEL KEMPINSKI

HHHHH

PO Box 13315, King Fahad Road 7647, Al Sahafa District, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 5117777 | meetings.burjrafal@kempinski.com | kempinski.com/riyadh (see advertisement on Inside back cover) C 27 349 112 Y

Y Y 5,980 21 2,000 Y Y - N Y Y 2 2 Y Y N Y

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Fitness centre (Y/N)

Beachfront (Y/N)

Swimming pool/s (Y/N)

Spa (Y/N)

Total No. of caf s

Total No. of restaurants

Business Centre (Y/N)

Group leisure activities (Y/N)

Off-site catering (Y/N)

Capacity of largest outdoor space

Outdoor space available (Y/N)

Conference equipment (Y/N)

Capacity of largest meeting room

Total No. of meeting rooms

Total meeting space (sqm)

In-room Internet access (Y/N)

Disabled facilities (Y/N)

Group check-in (Y/N)

Number of suites/villas

Total number of guestrooms

Distance from airport (km)

Location: resort/city

STAY | LISTINGS

HHHHH

CORP INN EXECUTIVE HOTEL, DEIRA RIYADH PO Box 4523, Riyadh 11412, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4141500 | info@corpinndeira.com | corpinndeira.com

C 40 120 40 Y Y Y 282 5 230 N Y - Y - Y 1 - Y Y N Y

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON RIYADH - AL MUROJ BUSINESS GATE

HHHH

PO Box 47117, Northern Ring Rd. Al Wadi Ar Riyadh 11552, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 5285100 | ruham_salesadm@hilton.com | riyadhalmuroj.doubletree.com C 15 175 48 Y Y Y 3,471 7 1,408 Y No - Y N Y 1 1 N N N Y

HHHHH

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON RIYADH KHALDIA PO Box 817, Al Imam Faisal bin Turki Street (Al Khanzzan), Riyadh, 11421, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2682222 | info.fpkhaldia@fourpoints.com | fourpointsriyadhkhaldia.com

C 45 367 138 Y Y Y 1,929 19 500 Y Y - - - Y 2 - Y N N Y

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL

HHHHH

Kingdom Centre, PO Box 231000, Riyadh 11321, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2115000 | hana.chatila@fourseasons.com | fourseasons.com C 50 274 37 Y Y Y 4,200 5 3,000 Y Y - Y Y Y 3 - Y Y N Y

RIYADH

HILTON GARDEN INN RIYADH OLAYA

HHH

PO Box 11553, Olaya Main Street Riyadh 11454, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2935533 | ruhro-salesadm@hilton.com | riyadholaya.hgi.com C 30 152 28 Y Y Y 374 5 232 Y N - Y N Y 1 1 N N N N

HYATT REGENCY RIYADH OLAYA

HHHHH

PO Box 10341, Riyadh 11433, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2881234 | riyadh.regency@hyatt.com | riyadholaya.regency.hyatt.com C 34 261 40 Y Y Y 1,000 8 530 Y Y Y Y Y 2 1 Y Y N Y

INTERCONTINENTAL RIYADH PO Box 3636 King Saud Road Riyadh 114811, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4655000 | sales.icriyadh@ihg.com | intercontinental.com/riyadh

HHHHH (see advertisement on page 55)

C 40 274 61 Y Y Y 3,744 16 1,500 Y Y 5,000 Y Y Y 3 2 Y Y N Y

MAKAREM RIYADH HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 12120, King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh 13443, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2204500 | reservation.riyadh@makarem | makaremriyadh.com C 3 224 24 Y Y N 750 6 750 Y Y - Y - Y 2 - Y Y N Y

NARCISSUS HOTEL & RESIDENCE, RIYADH

HHHHH

PO Box 75, Prince Mohammed Bin Abdelaziz St. & Olaya St. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2946300 | info@narcissusriyadh.com | narcissusriyadh.com C 35 280 106 Y Y Y 1,005 6 120 Yes N - Y Y Y 3 1 Y Y N Y

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Fitness centre (Y/N)

Beachfront (Y/N)

Swimming pool/s (Y/N)

Spa (Y/N)

Total No. of caf s

Total No. of restaurants

Business Centre (Y/N)

Group leisure activities (Y/N)

Off-site catering (Y/N)

Capacity of largest outdoor space

Outdoor space available (Y/N)

Conference equipment (Y/N)

Capacity of largest meeting room

Total No. of meeting rooms

Total meeting space (sqm)

In-room Internet access (Y/N)

Disabled facilities (Y/N)

Group check-in (Y/N)

Number of suites/villas

Total number of guestrooms

Distance from airport (km)

Location: resort/city

NOVOTEL RIYADH AL ANOUD

HHHHH

PO Box 2370, 9033, King Fahd Road Tower 2, Olaya Riyadh 12214, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 2882323 | h6532-re@accor.com | novotel.com C 25 166 21 Y Y Y 465 6 400 Y Y - Y Y Y 2 - Y Y N Y

RADISSON BLU HOTEL RIYADH

HHHHH

PO Box 18006, King Abdul Aziz Street, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4791234 | reservations.riyadh@radissonblu.com | radissonblu.com/en/hotel-riyadh C 40 294 45 Y Y Y 600 14 500 Y N - Y Y Y 3 1 N Y N Y

RIYADH MARRIOTT HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 16294, King Saud Road, Al Wazarat District, Riyadh 11464, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4779300 | riyadh@marriotthotels.com | riyadhmarriott.com

RIYADH

C 40 418 26 Y Y Y 454 20 300 Y Y - Y - Y 2 1 Y Y N Y

RIYADH PALACE HOTEL

HHHHH

PO Box 2691, Riyadh 11461, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4054444 | info@riyadhpalacehotel.com | riyadhpalacehotel.com C 35 304 37 Y

Y N 387 6 350 Y Y 2,000 Y N Y 1 - N Y N Y

ROSH RAYHAAN BY ROTANA PO Box 9295 Olaya St, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12241, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4479888 | rosh.rayhaan@rotana.com | rotana.com

HHHHH (see advertisement on page 57)

C 39 236 27 Y Y Y 275 9 360 Y Y - Y Y Y 3 2 Y Y N Y

SHERATON RIYADH HOTEL AND TOWERS

HHHHH

PO Box 90807, King Fahad Road, Riyadh 11623, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 4543300 | reservation.riyadh@sheraton.com | sheratonriyadh.com C 35 193 14 Y Y Y 420 6 600 Y Y - Y - Y 2 - N Y N Y

THE RITZ-CARLTON, RIYADH

HHHHH

PO Box 13048, Al-Hada Area, Mekkah Road, Riyadh 11493, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 11 8028020 | rc.ruhrz.leads@ritzcarlton.com | ritzcarlton.com/riyadh C 50 493 99 Y Y Y 6,730 15 2,354 Y N - Y Y Y 3 2 Y Y N Y

INTERCONTINENTAL TAIF HOTEL

HHHHH

TAIF

P.O. Box 827, Airport Road, Taif, 21944, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 7505050 | intercontinental.taif@ihg.com | ihg.com C 14 179 35 Y Y Y 1,683 6 800 Y Y - Y Y Y 2 - Y Y N Y

RAMADA AL HADA HOTEL & SUITES

HHHHH

Telefrique Station Ring Road, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +966 12 7545558 | hada_gm@ramadamh.com | ramada.com C 16 183 59 Y Y Y 304 8 370 Y Y - Y - Y 2 - N Y N Y

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PLAY | DINING

Deliciously diverse Saudi Arabia’s culinary scene is flourishing with an increasing variety of cuisines now available throughout the Kingdom

As Saudi Arabia continues to place great emphasis on tourism and attracting more business visitors, the culinary scene within the country has undergone a major transformation. While there still remains a focus on Arabic cuisine, there is now a great variety of flavours to sample as restaurants look to satisfy the needs of international guests.

In cities such as Riyadh and Makkah numerous new hotels have opened, with each new destination keen to make a culinary statement. As plans to expand the hospitality offering across the country unfold, each restaurateur and hotel operator is looking to make their mark with a variety of standout culinary concepts. The dynamic is also shifting as more exhibitions and events take place

throughout the country and restaurants are eager to capitalise by offering private dining options and bespoke menus.

This new dining diversity means there is now plenty to choose from when visiting the kingdom. Here are just some of the culinary destinations vying for attention.

01

REGIONAL DELIGHTS Experience a range of Arabic flavours at these traditional eateries

Al Dira Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel Billed as the first ‘five-star’ restaurant in Saudi Arabia, this expansive venue offers spectacular interiors and a wide variety of regional delights. The lavish buffet offers a selection ranging from authentic Bedouin to Middle Eastern delicacies. A favourite among locals, it can seat almost 500 guests and boasts a live ouzi station.

Sweets of Arabia The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh An innovative café in the capital that specialises in hand-crafted Arabian sweets, guests can enjoy the bitesized delights in an al fresco setting with a view of the hotel’s impressive fountain. Those wishing to take some sweets home can choose from the Signature or Royal selection, which offer up to four kilogrammes of tasty treats.

Contact: +966 12 5717777 / fairmont.com

Contact: +966 11 8028020 / ritzcarlton.com

02

Arabesque Sofitel Jeddah Corniche Offering excellent contemporary PanArabic food, this popular restaurant in Jeddah perfectly fuses flavours from across the region to brilliant effect. At the helm is Chef Ahmed Yassin who has come up with a well-balanced menu that perfectly showcases the very best of Arabic, and in particular, classic Moroccan cuisine.

Contact: +966 12 6139000 / sofitel.com

01 S weets of Arabia, The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh 02: Mondo Restaurant, InterContinental Riyadh

Al Majlis Raffles Makkah Palace This fine-dining restaurant can seat up to 70 guests and offers Levantine dishes with flavours from Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan, Greece and Syria. Guests can choose to dine indoors or on the terrace overlooking the Grand Mosque with a mezzeh appetizer buffet or á la carte menu.

Contact: +966 12 5717888 / raffles.com

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Al Dira, Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel

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PLAY | DINING

03

GREAT GRILLS Showcasing the very best cuts of meat and the freshest seafood

Terrace Grill Riyadh Marriott Hotel One of the leading steakhouses in the country, this high-end restaurant offers the finest quality Angus beef, succulent chops and a variety of mouth-watering seafood in a sophisticated setting with space for more than 100 guests.

Contact: +966 11 4779300 / marriott.com

The Pampa Grill Narcissus Hotel and Residence Riyadh Located on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, this venue specialises in traditional Argentinean cuisine. Expect a fantastic selection of delicious meats cooked over a charcoal grill. The ‘all you can eat’ concept also means an array of dishes are delivered right to your table.

03: The Pampa Grill, Narcissus Hotel and Residence Riyadh 04 & 06: Hokkaido Japanese Restaurant, Radisson Blu Hotel Jeddah

Crowne Grill Restaurant Crowne Plaza Jeddah Opened in 2010, this popular restaurant has become renowned for its sizeable selection of prime meats and fresh seafood grills. Guests can choose from a variety of succulent menu options including melt-in-the-mouth Wagyu beef, lobster tail and tiger shrimp, all of which are then grilled to perfection for a meal to remember.

04

Contact: +966 12 6611000 / ihg.com

Contact: +966 11 2946300 / narcissusriyadh.com

The Grill Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre Featuring an extensive à la carte menu of imported meats and fresh seafood, guests can watch their dishes being prepared on the grill thanks to the part open kitchen.

Specialising in steaks, the restaurant also offers a business lunch menu which sees three-courses served in 45 minutes. There is also an expansive terrace with a barbecue for when the weather is cooler.

EASTERN PROMISE

Contact: +966 11 2115000 / fourseasons.com

Contact: +966 12 6521234 / radissonblu.com

The perfect solution for those seeking an authentic taste of Asia

Hokkaido Japanese Restaurant Radisson Blu Hotel Jeddah If you’re in the mood for traditional Japanese cuisine, this Jeddah hotspot is the perfect choice. Offering up a variety of seasonal fresh fish, sashimi and tempura, there is also a sushi counter with 14 seats and four private dining rooms.

05

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06

extensive menu that includes a range of international dishes as well as traditional Asian cuisine.

Contact: +966 11 4655000 / ihg.com

AROUND THE WORLD

07

Nobu Nobu Hotel Riyadh The acclaimed Japanese restaurant franchise is set to make its Saudi debut in the capital this year. Situated within the soon-to-open Nobu Hotel, it will serve a rich fusion cuisine of Japanese dishes crafted with Peruvian ingredients. Highlights include the restaurant’s signature black cod in a miso glaze.

Offering a variety of global cuisines, these dining destinations present dishes to satisfy every taste

The Palace Restaurant Riyadh Palace Hotel This expansive poolside restaurant has a capacity of 200 guests and prides itself on serving a cuisine to suit even the most selective of customers. The fine-dining venue has an experienced team of chefs who also provide tailored lunches and dinners.

Contact: +966 11 4054444 / riyadhpalacehotel.com

Open All Day DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Riyadh Al Muroj Business Gate This casual dining venue boasts a wealth of cuisines in both buffet and à la carte format. The executive chef worked in collaboration with a nutritionist to design the menu, meaning there are plenty of healthy options alongside snacks and gourmet offerings.

Garden Grille & Bar Hilton Garden Inn Riyadh Olaya Offering a huge buffet for breakfast and an à la carte menu for a more intimate lunch or dinner, this Riyadh restaurant has a team of creative chefs preparing dishes from all corners of the globe.

Upon entering guests will be hit with tempting aromas thanks to the live kitchen in the stylish venue.

Contact: +966 11 5285100 / doubletree3.hilton.com

Contact: +966 11 2935533 / hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com

Contact: +966 11 2032764 / nobuhotelriyadh.com

Mondo Restaurant InterContinental Riyadh This elegant fine-dining restaurant is renowned for its ability to combine flavours and ingredients from all over the world. With views of the hotel’s swimming pool, guests can choose from an

Al Yasmine Hotel Pullman Zamzam Makkah Presided over by chef Hassan Dabbarh, this sizeable international buffet puts a focus on Arabic and Asian dishes. There are also plenty of options for vegetarians in this spacious restaurant.

Contact: +966 12 5715729 / pullmanhotels.com

05: N obu Hotel Riyadh 07: The Grill, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre

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PLAY | DINING

Azure Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya This award-winning eatery features a stunning interior and a tantalising menu that draws upon influences from Greece and Turkey. With a wood burning stove and open kitchen, aromas fill the restaurant, that is known for its lobster linguine and, lamb and pistachio kofte with spinach tzatziki.

Contact: +966 11 2881234 / hyatt.com

GOING AL FRESCO If you’re looking to soak up the sunshine or dine under the stars, these outdoor venues are a charming choice

08

Flavours All Day Dining Rosh Rayhaan by Rotana Options are plentiful at this large restaurant that offers an international buffet throughout the day as well as a range of à la carte dishes. There is also a selection of live cooking stations, while every night the cuisine is based around a different theme from around the world.

Contact: +966 11 4479888 / rotana.com

EUROPE’S FINEST These tried and tested dishes from across the continent will be sure to impress the foodie crowd

Crush Pool Café Aloft Riyadh This trendy rooftop pool café is a great choice for those seeking a tasty snack or a refreshing drink after a busy day in the city. The menu mainly consists of small dishes that are full of flavour, while and the signature mocktails are always a popular choice.

Contact: +966 11 2341111 / aloftriyadh.com

08: The Globe, Al Faisaliah Hotel 09 & 11: Radisson Blu Riyadh 10: Olivio’s Italian, Restaurant Radisson Blu Riyadh 12: Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche

Olivio’s Italian Restaurant Radisson Blu Riyadh A classic Italian and Mediterranean restaurant, the menu is packed full of hearty dishes that are sure to impress.

Think cured meats, traditional pastas and tempting risottos. There is also plenty of choice when it comes to oven cooked pizzas, with the seafood variety a firm favourite.

Contact: +966 11 4791234 / radissonblu.com

The Globe Al Faisaliah Hotel This impressive fine-dining restaurant does not just boast the finest European cuisine but it also affords its guests jawdropping views of Riyadh from within the golden sphere atop Al Faisaliah Tower. Standout dishes include panseared foie gras and tender salmon.

Patio Lounge Park Inn by Radisson Al Khobar Hotel Choose from an à la carte menu inspired

by Mediterranean flavours at this cosy open-air venue. There are also impressive views of the city to be had from here, the perfect spot for those seeking a light bite no matter what time of day.

Contact: +966 11 2732000 / alfaisaliahhotels.com

Contact: +966 13 8100800 / parkinn.com

09

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10

Manzanita Club and Terrace Sofitel Al Khobar The Corniche The perfect spot to take in the scenery around the stunning corniche, this popular evening venue offers a selection of delicious French pastries, light bites and fruit smoothies.

Contact: +966 13 8817000 / sofitel.com

11

Patio Terrace Radisson Blu Hotel Yanbu An open and cozy restaurant offering a menu of Mediterranean dishes with beautiful city views. Suitable for snacks at any time of the day.

Contact: +966 14 3223888 / radissonblu.com

12

Cabana Movenpick Hotel Riyadh Nestle into your own private sanctuary at Cabana, a peaceful outdoor venue in the heart of Saudi’s bustling capital. The gourmet snack menu here consists of delectable bites including golden Omani shrimp and spicy potato wedges. A wide selection of delicious desserts are also well worth sampling.

Contact: +966 11 4579999 / movenpick.com

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PLAY | HISTORY & CULTURE

Kingdom of treasures Saudi Arabia’s rich history and unique heritage offer a wealth of cultural attractions

Long before the kingdom was founded or oil was discovered, Saudi Arabia’s founding fathers played an important role in world history. Located on the Arabian Peninsula, and covering four-fifths of its total area, the territory was previously home to ancient civilisations such as the trade-orientated Dilmun (dating back to 4,000BCE) and the creatively skilled Nabataeans.

However, the birth of Islam in seventh century Makkah was a historic turning point – uniting the previously disparate Arabian tribes and expanding their influence far and wide. Early markers for modern-day Saudi Arabia were laid in the mid-18th century with the rise of the Wahhabi movement promoting a pure reading of Islam and its teachings. An agreement was then forged in 1744 between religious teacher Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab and Muhammad Ibn Saud, head of the Al Saud clan, to form a small Saudi state encompassing Riyadh and Diriyah.

Over the next 150 years, the fortunes of the Al Sauds fluctuated as they competed with the Ottoman Empire, Egypt and other Arabian tribes for control of the peninsula.

However, in the early 20th century Ibn Saud began a rise to prominence

which would eventually culminate in the formation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. Huge reserves of oil were discovered just six years later at Ghawar Field in the Eastern Province, propelling the nation towards vast wealth and global influence.

Fast forward to the present day and Saudi Arabia is seeking to diversify its economy as a result of fluctuating oil prices and the rise in demand for cleaner energy alternatives.

With this in mind, the kingdom is keen to champion its status as an important historical and cultural centre as it looks to boost its income from tourism. It is also positioning itself as a major destination for business tourism with a flourishing portfolio of new and established venues, and a host of one-of-a-kind cultural experiences which are perfect for incentive groups. Saudi Commission for Tourism & National Heritage is investing almost US$7 billion (SAR26 billion) in tourism initiatives, including heritage centres and archaeological sites.

We’ve compiled some of the Kingdom’s most intriguing heritage sites and attractions where delegates can delve deeper into Saudi culture for visit to remember.

Abdul Raouf Khalil Museum This large museum in Downtown Jeddah is made up of a mosque and the façade of a beautiful old castle.

The sprawling space also boasts a vast array of artefacts spanning several thousand years of history. The displays are divided into three eras, from early fishing tribes and the Ottoman conquest, to the early 20th century beginnings of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Al Ahsa Oasis This enormous oasis to the south-east of the country is one of the world’s largest, covering 10,000 hectares and containing three million palm trees, which produce five tonnes of dates per day. Sites to visit here include the caves of Al-Qarah Mountain, Qaisariah Souq and Ibrahim Palace, a grand 16th century complex which boasts stunning architecture including a museum and a traditional mosque.

Asir National Park For total serenity amid beautiful scenery, Asir National Park is a must-visit.

The lush green parkland is home to assorted wild animals and 300 species of birds, plus it contains Jabal Soodah, the country’s highest mountain at more than 10,000 feet above sea level.

Head to the spot for a peaceful picnic or bring a tent and camp out overnight under the stars. Hiking and cable car rides are also an option, while an educational centre in the nearby Rijal Alma traditional village explains all about the surrounding environment.

Dammam Regional Museum Part of Dammam Public Library and set on the picturesque waterfront, the museum is spread across six exhibition halls and traces the region’s fascinating history from the Stone Age to present day. A wide selection of artefacts includes ancient tools, traditional clothing and silver jewellery, while there’s also the option to watch special films on the antiquities and heritage of the Kingdom. The museum’s Islamic Hall documents the migration of the Prophet Mohammed to Madinah.

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01: National Museum

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PLAY | HISTORY & CULTURE

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The Floating Mosque sits on pillars in the Red Sea off Jeddah Corniche

Floating Mosque Famed for its pristine white marble exterior, the Floating Mosque sits on pillars in the Red Sea off Jeddah Corniche – creating the optical illusion at high tide after which it is named.

The mosque is one of Jeddah’s top attractions, especially among Makkah-bound pilgrims, with sunrise and sunset both providing extra-special views. Head inside for a chance to marvel at the building’s intricately decorated interior Jabal al-Nour This mountain is a site of immense importance for Muslims, as it contains the Hira cave where the Prophet Mohammed is believed to have spent a great deal of his time meditating, while it’s also believed to be the site where he received his first revelation from Allah via the archangel Gabriel. Pilgrims can climb the 640-metre sacred peak to see its wonders for themselves.

Jeddah Sculpture Museum For the past four decades, Jeddah has nurtured its lively art scene which has flourished all across the city. Jeddah Sculpture Museum, on the corniche, is a prime example of the city’s devotion to public art works. The free-toenter outdoor museum opened in 2014 and features several dozen sculptures by both Saudi and international artists which are peppered around the space.

King Fahd’s Fountain The world’s tallest fountain can be found off the Red Sea coast in Jeddah.

King Fahd’s Fountain, shoots jets of water 1,000 feet into the air, and is also known as the Jeddah Fountain.

The impressive display can be seen for miles around, with the corniche the best vantage point to watch the 375 kilometre-per-hour water jets in action.

Masmak Fortress This clay and mud-brick fortress in Downtown Riyadh is a focal point of modern Saudi history. Built around 1865, it was the site of the late King Abdulaziz’s decisive victory over the rival Al Rashid clan in 1902 – paving the way for the Kingdom’s creation three decades later. The fortress offers visitors everything from historical artefacts to educational videos, and also contains a small mosque.

National Museum History meets the present day at the National Museum in the heart of King Abdulaziz Historical Centre in Riyadh.

A 17,000 square metre edifice, the space is divided into eight exhibition halls where visitors can see everything from the recreation of a Nabatean tomb from UNESCO World Heritage Site Mada’in Saleh, to skeletons from ancient eras. The exhibits are complemented by documentaries, virtual site visits and interactive displays.

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Culture comes to life Immerse yourself in these Saudi traditions

Al Ardah The traditional Bedouin sword dance commemorates past battles and sees men move to a drumbeat wielding a sword or cane with singing or poetry also factored in. The dance is on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Fishing at Jeddah Corniche Cast your line into the Red Sea, just like Jeddah fishermen have been doing for thousands of years. It’s a chance to catch species such as grouper or parrot fish, or you can simply always enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and striking views.

Janadriyah Festival Held near Riyadh, usually in February, this fortnightlong festival showcases camel and horse racing, sword dancing, poetry, music, regional costumes and cuisine, as well as crafts such as carpet weaving and pottery.

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The historic city contains landmarks such as the Old Jeddah Wall

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Heritage Kingdom

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Riyadh Zoo A treat for all both leisure and business visitors looking for a group activity, Riyadh Zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals from 40 species. The sprawling facility was originally opened to house the creatures that foreign dignitaries had gifted the country’s royalty, while today, the venue is a popular stop on any visit to the city. Among the wide variety of animals from all over the world, are kangaroos, seals, elephants and crocodiles.

Historic Jeddah, the Gate to Makkah Where: Old Town (Al Balad) in the city centre The historic city contains landmarks such as the Old Jeddah Wall built to protect the city, ancient mosques, tower houses built in the late 19th century by wealthy merchants, lively souqs and narrow, winding alleys. A trip to the nearby Gold Souq is also highly recommended.

Souq Al Thumairi A wide selection of Arabic goods can be found at this tourist-friendly Riyadh market, also known as the Antique Souq. This is the place to come for everything from carpets, perfume, and hand-woven textiles, to toys, jewellery and musical instruments. Pick up a bargain by haggling with the vendors, most of whom speak English. The bustling Tahlia Street, home to assorted stores and eateries, is also short drive away and well worth a look too.

Al Turaif in Dir’iyah Where: 20 kilometres northwest of Riyadh The original capital city of the first Saudi state provides a captivating glimpse into the past. Divided by the Wadi Hanifa, Dir’iyah was founded in the 15th century and consists of several districts including Al Turaif. Must-see features include Salwa Palace where state affairs were organised, as well as high-rise mud buildings rarely seen in the rest of the region.

Tarout Island Connected to the coastal city of Qatif by two causeways, the picture-perfect Tarout Island has been inhabited for more than 7,000 years and is known for its old fort, which was built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century.

Take a walk through the old town of Dareen, which is home to traditional houses made from palms and a fishing harbour with traditional dhow boats moored offshore.

Zee Ain Heritage Village One of a series of cultural stops on the tentative list to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Zee Ain dates back 400 years and sits on a mountaintop, affording spectacular views. The historic village is known for its intricate stone buildings, and has in recent years been undergoing development to fully realise its tourism potential

Mada’in Saleh Where: 360 kilometres northwest of Madinah Mada’in Saleh, often known as ‘Little Petra’ contains more than 100 stone tombs carved by the ancient Nabatean people. Mount Athleb stands dramatically on the horizon here and features a narrow passageway known as the Siq, while Al Fareed Palace is the most popular tomb, characterised by a large façade and intricate carvings.

02 & 05:Mada’in Saleh 03: Floating Mosque 04:Jeddah Sculpture Museum

Rock Art of Ha’il Where: Ha’il region in the north of the country Jabal Umm Sinman at Jubbah, and Jabal al-Manjor and Raat at Shuwaymis, are the most important archaeological sites in the Kingdom.

Petroglyphs and inscriptions on the rock face show representations of human and animal figures covering 10,000 years of history.

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PLAY | SPORTS

High flyers

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From falconry to football, Saudi Arabia’s sporting scene offers a mixture of local tradition and international flair

Falconry In 2016, the United Nations inscribed falconry on its UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List – acknowledging the importance of the region’s ancient tradition. In Saudi Arabia, the treasured Bedouin practice of falconry remains a source of great national pride – nurtured as an integral part of the nation’s heritage, and very much kept alive as a thrilling sport. The practice remains

relatively unchanged and from October to March, falconers head into the desert to showcase saker (hurr) and peregrine (shaheen) falcons as they chase their prey. The annual Turaif Falcon Festival, in the north-east of the country, is a great place to take in all the action – making a great day out for business and incentive groups.

Visit: sauditourism.sa

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Golf

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Horse racing As with many Middle Eastern nations, horses have long been an integral part of Saudi culture. The Equestrian Club of Riyadh’s racing season runs from September until April, with more than 60 race meetings generating US$11.5 million (SAR43 million) in prize money. See these magnificent animals in action at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Janadriyah every February at international fixtures, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Cup (King’s Cup), and the King Abdulaziz Cup. Opened in 2003, the facility has a 3,500-capacity grandstand with private boxes and restaurants – both ideal choices for planners. Meanwhile, in January, the annual Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Arabian Horse Festival takes place at Al Khalediah Farm in Tebrak. The five-day programme includes an endurance race, flat racing events and a competition for purebred steeds.

Contact: +966 11 2540154/ frusiya.com

In Saudi Arabia, the treasured Bedouin practice of falconry remains a source of great national pride

01: Falconry 02: Saudi’s Prince Faisal Al Shalan in horse racing competition 03: Saudi Arabia national team in action 04: Camel racing

Given Saudi Arabia’s sunny climate, it’s little wonder that the kingdom has warmed to golf in recent years. There are a number of excellent courses to choose from, with many also offering corporate golf days out plus meeting and events space for hire. Here are some of our top picks: Arizona Golf Resort Where: Qurtubah, Riyadh This nine-hole course has a wealth of facilities to choose from regardless of skill level. The floodlit par-34 course is an entertaining challenge, or you can head to the driving range for practice.

The clubhouse boasts everything from a ballroom to a supermarket and a bowling alley, and outside there are swimming pools, tennis courts, an open-air theatre and more.

Contact: +966 1 2484444 / agr.com.sa

Dirab Golf & Country Club Where: Tawfiq Valley Dirab Golf & Country Club is home to a par-72 18-hole championship grass course, plus a par-27 nine-hole course.

Boasting year-round playing conditions, the club also has assorted features such as a restaurant, a meeting hall, a swimming pool, a floodlit tennis court and horse stables.

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Camel racing This Bedouin tradition, which sees camels reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour during a race, remains a muchloved pursuit in modern-day Saudi Arabia. A major draw for the Kingdom’s enthusiasts is the annual Janadriyah Festival, which sees 2,000 camels compete across 10 races before crowds of up to 30,000. The fortnight-long event is held in February at Janadriyah, 28 miles northeast of Riyadh. During winter, camel races are also held at the capital’s King Fahd International Stadium.

While in spring, the month-long King Abdulaziz Camel Festival takes place in Rumah. The heritage event attracts 30,000 camels and their owners, and also hosts a ‘Miss Camel’ beauty contest, with prizes totalling US$30 million (SAR114 million).

Football Already a wildly popular sport in Saudi Arabia, football will dominate conversation in towns across the Kingdom this summer – as the national team takes part in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Last season, Al-Hilal FC were crowned champions of the Saudi Professional League, the country’s premier domestic division, for the 14th time. The Riyadh-based club are known for their intense rivalry with Jeddah’s Al-Ittihad, with the twice-yearly derby between the two dubbed the ‘Saudi El Clasico’. Al-Ittihad are also known for averaging more than 40,000 supporters per home game – so a trip with delegates to King Abdullah Sports City Stadium on match day is sure to be memorable, with women now also able to watch the sport thanks to a change in the law.

Visit: sauditourism.sa

Visit: kasc.com

Contact: +966 1 8126671 / dirabgolf.com

Nofa Golf Resort Where: Tibrak, Riyadh Part of the 1,800-hectare Nofa Resorts complex, the par-73 course has nine of its 18 holes within the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Racetrack – plus a mini-safari park between holes eight and nine which houses creatures including ostriches and a pair of baby hippopotami. There is also a driving range, a putting green and a clubhouse – with MICE space for up to 600 guests.

Contact: +966 59 3253721 / nofaresorts.com

Riyadh Golf Courses Where: Riyadh Located 20 minutes away from the city centre, Riyadh Golf Courses is an 18-hole, par-72 championship course with rich vegetation and wide fairways.

The 5,000 square-metre clubhouse features the Palms restaurant, serving international and local cuisine, and has the option of private dining and catering for meetings and seminars. The adjoining 40,000 square-metre Riyadh Sports Garden offers activities such as billiards and volleyball and is a flexible event space for a variety of functions.

Contact: +966 55 7399900 / riyadhgolfcourses.com

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Al JUBAIL

PLAY | ACTIVITIES

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The great outdoors From ocean adventures to desert discoveries, Saudi Arabia boasts unforgettable incentive experiences As the trend towards combining business and leisure continues to gather momentum, more and more corporate guests are looking to be wowed with unique experiences.

For planners, it means seeking out new and rich destinations where business travellers, and incentive groups, can delve into rich cultural encounters, wildlife wonders and ancient stories. Going far beyond tried and tested destinations, Saudi Arabia is ripe for exploration, with everything from historical treasures and natural attractions, to luxury shopping, high-octane thrills and compelling culture.

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PLAY | ACTIVITIES

Al Nakheel Beach Al Nakheel Beach at Al Jubail is a wonderfully picturesque getaway surrounded by greenery, favoured by tourists and locals alike. Go for a refreshing dip in the sea and bring a snorkelling mask to take in stunning reefs, or enjoy a relaxed barbecue on the beach.

Scuba operator Desert Sea Divers offers scheduled boat trips and charter hire for private groups keen to get out on the waves and explore the area.

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Contact: +966 12 6561807 / desertseadivers.com

Asir National Park A perfect pick for nature enthusiasts and budding photographers alike, Asir National Park is a memorable place to spend the day, and the night too if you bring a tent. Measuring 620 square miles, Saudi Arabia’s first national park is home to Jabal Soodah – the Kingdom’s highest peak at 2,910 metres – and is a great hiking and picnic spot too. Cable car rides are also an option for those who have a head for heights.

Half Moon Beach Where: Al Khobar This Eastern Province beauty spot in Al Khobar is the perfect playground with everything on offer from swimming and dune buggy drives, to horse riding and speedboat rides. The pristine, crescent-shaped beach on the Arabian Gulf is an ideal corporate retreat with a good selection of hotels in and around the area including international hospitality brands such as Movenpick, Holiday Inn and Radisson Blu.

Snow City Where: Al-Othaim Mall Rabwa, Riyadh Snow City, which opened in 2016, at Al-Othaim Mall in Riyadh presents an incentive experience with a difference making the most of the novelty of a snow park in the heart of the desert.

The 5,000 metre snow park, built at a cost of US$27 million (SAR100 million), offers a host of activities including skiing, snowboarding, sledging, snow mobiles, rope courses and igloo building, plus a panoramic suspension bridge. The park can accommodate 350 people an hour in its chilly minus three degree Celsius climes.

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Contact: +966 92 0008331 / othaimleisure.com

All about the adrenaline

Ideas for thrill-seeking incentive groups that are sure to set pulses racing Karting Where: In10So, Serafi Mega Mall and Red Sea Mall, Jeddah In10So boasts two karting centres in the capital, and offers other incentives for corporate days out such as bowling, archery and laser tag. +966 12 2844991 / in10so.com/en

Paintballing Where: 1st Paintball, Riyadh The 25,000 square metre facility boasts flexible MICE possibilities – from team-building paintball experiences to meetings and events for up to 160 people in its multipurpose halls +966 92 0003318 / 1stpaintball.com

Skydiving Where: Saudi Aviation Club, Riyadh Jumping out of a plane is just one of the options to choose from at Saudi Aviation Club, with flying lessons and paragliding on offer as well. +966 11 2191002 / sac.com.sa

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Shop smart The Kingdom’s modern malls boast designer stores, restaurants and entertainment Al Faisaliah Mall Where: King Fahad Road, Riyadh Housing the Middle East’s first Harvey Nichols department store, this mall sits beneath the famed Al Faisaliah Tower skyscraper. Dozens of luxury brands have stores here, from Lacoste to Tommy Hilfiger, and there’s also a food court and a children’s fun area.

Contact: +966 11 2734003 / alfaisaliahmall.com

Al Rashid Mall Where: Al Khobar, Eastern Province This three-storey mall boasts a souq-style shopping area, a fashion zone and a Fun City recreation spot for kids. There are also plentiful restaurants and cafes for a networking break.

Contact: +966 13 8994466 / rashidmall.com

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Go for a refreshing dip in the sea and bring a snorkelling mask to take in stunning reefs

Mada’in Saleh One of Saudi Arabia’s four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mada’in Saleh is an ancient stone-cut wonder which was forged by the Nabateans, the same ancient civilisation that built Petra in Jordan. The desert site, at Al-Ula in the Al-Madinah Region, boasts 131 intricately carved stone tombs that date back to the first century and which remain remarkably intact. There is also cave drawings and other inscriptions. Organised tours can be arranged in advance.

The Empty Quarter This vast expanse of desert in the South East of the country known as Rub Al Khali in Arabic, spans 250,000 square miles – making it slightly larger than France – and covers a quarter of Saudi Arabia plus parts of the UAE, Oman and Yemen. It’s best to tackle the unforgiving terrain with experienced guides; Amazing Tours offers an ‘Empty Quarter Adventure’ which includes a car

01: Marine life in the Red Sea 02: Mada’in Saleh 03: Empty Quarter

journey to take in different parts of the desert, a traditional lunch and camping.

Visit: amazingtours.info

The Kingdom Centre Where: Al Olaya, Riyadh Fashionistas galore can be found at the ultra-modern Kingdom Centre in the capital’s upscale Al Olaya district. The mall is home to a vast selection of globally known boutiques and eateries, while the ‘Ladies Kingdom’ floor has more than 40 stores exclusively for women.

Contact: +966 11 2112222 / kingdomcentre.com.sa

Edge of the World Sixty miles north-west of Riyadh lie the dramatic cliffs of Jebel Tuwaiq, nicknamed the Edge of the World due to their imposing presence on the skyline.

The peaks form part of the Tuwaiq escarpment and have been compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States.

A dramatic sight, the attraction is popular among desert trekkers and can be easily reached by delegate groups who are based in Riyadh, who can stop in the lush Acacia Valley on their way for a picnic. Be careful climbing up, however, as there are no protective guards on the cliffs – and it’s best for groups to hire both a driver and a tour guide to make the most of the experience.

Mall of Arabia Where: Nuzhah District, Jeddah Set across three floors, the stylish Mall of Arabia is packed with international stores, designer boutiques and plenty of leisure options which include the Vortex theme park.

Visit: hayatour.com

Contact: + 966 12 2151551 / redseamall.com

Wadi Hanifah This 75 mile-long valley intersects the capital, running from its northwest to southeast, and dates back to the ancient Banu Hanifa tribe. Once neglected, the area has been dramatically transformed into a scenic nature reserve and recreation space with parks, while options for a day out include a barbecue or a stroll along one of the walkways.

Contact: +966 12 6123100 / mallofarabia.com.sa

Red Sea Mall Where: King Abdulaziz Road, Jeddah One of Jeddah’s largest shopping centres, the plush Red Sea Mall is part of a complex which houses a five-star hotel and a seven-floor office building. Shopping options are widespread – from books to clothing and electronics.

A great option for business guests looking to fit in a spot of shopping while in the city.

Tahlia Street Where: Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street, Riyadh This famous lifestyle district is packed full of restaurants, designer boutiques and highend malls such as Panorama Mall and Centria Mall. This is a great place to come to sample the local dining scene, enjoy some retail therapy and get a sense of the city after a busy day of meetings.

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DIRECTORY | LISTINGS

Key contacts An essential guide of trusted service providers ready to lend their expertise in the kingdom 01: Dammam Corniche 01

EVENT MANAGEMENT COMPANIES Ace Creative +966 12 6546384 contact@acecreative.com.sa acecreative.com.sa 3rd Dimension Eventech +966 12 6070011 +966 50 5622502 info@3deventech.com Ibento International +966 12 2849010 ibento@ibentointernational.com ibentointernational.com Marcom Arabia +966 11 2002722 info@marcomarabia.net marcomarabia.com Pico International Saudi Arabia +966 11 4645903 info@sa.pico.com sa.pico.com Kudos Events +966 11 2111859 shehata@kudos.events kudos.events

SERVICES AND SUPPLIERS Arena Tents Saudi Arabia +966 11 4896531 rmillward@arenagroup.com arenagroup.com Dunia Intermedia +966 11 4603481 info@duniaintermedia.com duniaintermedia.com Occasions Trading Company +966 12 6575508 info@occasionsme.com occasionsme.com Techno Sign & Exhibition +966 11 2778877 info@technose.net technose.net Exicon International Group (part of The Specialist Group) +966 11 4602332 info@exicon-specialist.com exicon-specialist.com EXHIBITION ORGANISERS 1st Arabia Company Exhibitions and Conference Organizers +966 92 0020025 info@1starabia.com 1starabia.com

ACE Exhibitions +966 12 6546384 ace@acexpos.com Dhahran International Exhibitions Company +966 13 8400000 info@diec.com.sa dhahranexpo.com.sa XS Conferences & Exhibitions +966 50 5685126 adel@xs-conferences.com

DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANIES (DMCS) Destinations of the World Saudi Arabia +966 12 6501234 saudi@dotw.com us.dotwconnect.com Jawlah Tours Company +966 11 4816508 info@jawlah-tours.com jawlahtours.com

M.I.C.E Arabia Group +966 12 6070710 info@micearabia.net mice-arabia.net

ITL Leisure Tourism & Travel Co +966 11 4834999 ksa.riyadh@ITLtravel.com itlworld.com

Riyadh Exhibitions Company +966 11 2295604 info@recexpo.com recexpo.com

Al Shitaiwi Tours +966 11 2160900 imad@alshitaiwitours.com alshitaiwitours.com

Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center +966 11 2006677 info@ricec.com.sa ricec.com.sa

Masawife Tours Operators +966 11 2076665 info@masawife.com masawife.com Alsarh Travel & Tourism +966 11 4941111 info@alsarh.com.sa alsarh.com.sa

Rehab Al Muhammadiyah Tourism +966 14 8481618 info@rehabmtravel.com rehabmtravel.com Al Ula +966 54 0522257 info@alula-guide.com alula-guide.com ARAC Tour Operator +966 14 8361010 info@aractours.com arac.com.sa Lamar Tourism Agency +966 56 7565222 kd567@hotmail.com lamartourism.com Alsyahi Tour Operators +966 13 5304567 tours@alsyahi.com alsyahi.com Terhal International +966 12 2386066 info@terhal.com.sa MCI Saudi Arabia riyadh@mci-group.com mci-group.com

Sadd Al Samallaghi Tourism Co Ltd +966 12 6640662 ops@samalleghi.com samallaghi.com

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Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski 7647 King Khalid Road, Unit 1 Sahafa, 13315-2174 Riyadh, KSA T: + 966 11 5117777 | F: + 966 11 5117778 | kempinski.com/Riyadh

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