Saudi Arabia to see its first Shangri-La hotel in Jeddah by 2018

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts said in a statement that it has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi-based Assila Investments to manage and operate its first hotel in Saudi Arabia, which is set to open in Jeddah by 2018.

The 242-room luxury hotel will be located on Jeddah Corniche Road which faces the Red Sea. The Hong-Kong based hotel company will manage and provide services to the 122 residences in the tower.

The property will feature a dramatic design by global architecture firm Perkins+Will and will be situated perpendicular to the shoreline in order to maximize sea views and sun exposure.

Greg Dogan, Shangri La’s chief executive and president said the venture is part of the company’s strategic plan to strengthen its portfolio in the kingdom, as well as the wider Middle East region.

The global hotel firm is also said to be opening a hotel in Doha this summer.