KEC Partners with Archipelago to Launch 2,500-Key Mega Hotel in Madinah

Madinah, Saudi Arabia: Knowledge Economic City (KEC), the Tadawul-listed master developer shaping one of Saudi Arabia’s most strategically positioned urban destinations, has revealed plans for a landmark hospitality project featuring 2,500 hotel keys within its 6.8-million-square-metre master plan in Madinah.

The large-scale project will be developed through a joint venture with Archipelago International, one of Indonesia’s most prominent private hotel operators, marking one of the most significant cross-border hospitality collaborations in the Kingdom.

A New Saudi Hotel Brand to Be Launched

KEC confirmed that this mega development will serve as the launch platform for a new Saudi-born hotel brand, signalling a major step in the country’s ambition to diversify its hospitality offerings under Saudi Vision 2030.

While financial details and construction timelines were not disclosed, the introduction of a homegrown brand backed by international hospitality expertise is expected to elevate service quality and broaden Madinah’s appeal to global travellers.

Joint Venture to Manage and Operate Future Hospitality Assets

As outlined in the agreement, the joint venture will establish a hospitality management company responsible for operating all hotels and hospitality assets across KEC’s destinations in Madinah.

This integrated approach positions KEC to craft a long-term, self-sustaining hospitality ecosystem that supports both religious tourism and broader urban development goals.

Supporting Vision 2030 and Madinah’s Growth

The mega hotel project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s national objectives to:

• Expand tourism accommodation capacity
• Improve visitor experience in the holy cities
• Promote private-sector investment and partnerships
• Strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global tourism hub

Madinah continues to experience robust demand for modern, high-quality accommodation as the city’s infrastructure, cultural offerings and mobility networks advance rapidly. KEC’s hotel expansion is expected to contribute significantly to meeting this growing need.

Strategic Partnership With Archipelago International

The alliance with Archipelago International brings decades of operational expertise spanning Asia, the Middle East and Europe. This ensures the new hospitality developments will operate at global standards while maintaining cultural sensitivity and deep local relevance.

KEC highlighted that this synergy offers a foundation for strong performance across both branded and soon-to-be-launched Saudi hospitality concepts.

A Catalyst for Urban Transformation

As one of Madinah’s largest upcoming hospitality projects, the development strengthens KEC’s role in shaping a modern, integrated city district where hospitality, tourism, culture and economic activity converge.

Further details on the project’s investment value, phasing schedule and architectural design will be released as planning progresses.