Tech-savvy Aloft enters Riyadh

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced the entry of its innovative Aloft brand into the Saudi Arabian market with the opening of Aloft Riyadh.

Aloft continues to re-define the traditional hotel experience and strengthen its footprint in the Middle East, following the success of Aloft Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. Owned and developed by FAS Hotels, division of Fawal Al Hokair Group, Aloft Riyadh offers a vibrant social scene in the dynamic city of Riyadh. Brian McGuiness, Global Brand Leader, Specialty Select Brands, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, says, “With a portfolio of more than 100 hotels in dynamic destinations around the globe, Aloft continues to be one of the fastest growing hotel brands and is set to open 12 more properties in the Middle East by 2020. Saudi Arabia boasts a rapidly growing tech-savvy culture, and Aloft resonates in this market with its innovative programming and approach to technology, which appeal to today’s hyper-connected traveller.” Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe, Africa and Middle East, said, “We thank Fawaz Al Hokair Group for putting their trust in Starwood to open the first Aloft in Saudi Arabia. Aloft truly brings something new and unique to the hospitality sector in the Kingdom where there is a growing demand for modern, tech-forward hotels at an affordable price.”

Centrally located at the intersection of Riyadh’s main Olaya Street and Makkah Road, the hotel is in close proximity from the key government ministries, the shopping and restaurants of the downtown core, the National Museum and the Diplomatic Quarter. Aloft Riyadh features 281 modern, loft-inspired guest rooms with the brand’s signature offerings.

With design-led innovation in the brand’s DNA, Aloft Riyadh will feature SPG Keyless, the hospitality industry’s first mobile, keyless entry system that allows guests to use their smart phone or Apple watch as a room key. Aimed at the mobile generation, guests of Aloft Riyadh will also be able to make requests from the hotel via the SPG Let’s Chat text messaging service.