Accor has signed an agreement with Saleh Abdulaziz Al Rajhi & Partners to develop Ibis Mecca Al Maabda, a 518-key hotel located in Mecca’s rapidly growing eastern district, approximately 3 kilometers from the Holy Mosque.
Scheduled to open in 2031, the new build will feature two restaurants, a lobby lounge, a 50sqm banquet hall and rooms starting at 22sqm, targeting the growing demand for quality economy accommodation.
The project will strengthen Accor’s presence in Saudi Arabia’s holy city. The group already operates 15,000 rooms and is developing more than 8,000 additional rooms across 11 hotels.
The new ibis is expected to cater to both pilgrims and residents as demand expands beyond the traditional pilgrimage season with extended stays, family vacations and visitors from emerging source markets.
Saudi Arabia will welcome 122 million visitors in 2025, and Saudi Arabia aims to attract 150 million visitors a year by 2030, including 30 million Umrah pilgrims.
The growing role of international hotel operators is reshaping Mecca’s hospitality landscape, which has historically been dominated by independent hotels.
The deal also builds on Accor’s existing partnership with Saleh Abdulaziz Al Raji and Partners, which includes the Fairmont Ramla Riyadh Serviced Residences and Novotel Riyadh Al Urdh hotels currently under development. Accor will continue to support its expansion through dedicated regional teams overseeing digital initiatives and operations across the Holy City.
Raki Phillips, Regional President, Premium, Midscale and Economy, Middle East, Africa and Turkiye, Accor “For more than 50 years, ibis has helped travelers experience the world through reliable comfort, quality and exceptional value, and ibis Mecca Al Maabda delivers that trusted experience.” By expanding access to internationally recognized economy hospitality to one of Saudi Arabia’s most important destinations, we support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the evolving needs of today’s travelers. ”
Mohammed Al Mazari, CEO of Saleh Abdulaziz Al Raji Partners, said: “Investing in Mecca’s future is in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and our commitment to supporting private sector participation in Saudi tourism growth. This project is located in one of Makkah’s next growth corridors and partnering with Accor, with whom we already share a successful and long-term relationship, will ensure that the development is supported while meeting international standards.” Cities continue to change. ”
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