Barceló Hotel Group, the leading Spanish hospitality company with over 300 properties across 30 countries, announced today at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 the brand’s plans to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with its first hotel expectedto open bytheendof 2025. This highly anticipated debut is a testament to the Group’s long-term expansion strategy in the GCC, where regional demand continues to surge at an unprecedented pace.
The decision to enter Saudi Arabia comes as Barceló Hotel Groupexperiences a sharp rise in GCC-driven performance across its global portfolio. In 2024, room nights from Gulf countries grew by 10% year-on-year, led by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. That momentum is expected to accelerate significantly in 2025, with a forecasted 47% increase in bookings from the region, bolstered by a rising contribution from Qatar. This year, the United Arab Emirates has entered Barceló Hotel Group’s top 10 source markets across EMEA, underscoring the growing significance of the GCC to the brand’s international footprint.
The Group’s flagship properties in the Middle East, including Barceló Al Jaddaf in Dubai and Barceló Mussanah Resort in Oman, continue to lead in market share from GCC travellers. In 2025, demand from Gulf-based guests has soared for international destinations across the portfolio, with Barceló Coconut Islandin Thailand posting a 277% increase in revenue compared to 2024. Additionally, Occidental Puerto Banús in Spain saw a 264% jump, while Allegro Agadir in Morocco experienced a remarkable 5,000% growth in revenue, illustrating the brand’s resonance with a globally mobile GCC audience seeking diverse leisure experiences.
WithSaudi Arabia undergoing a boldtransformationunderVision 2030, Barceló Hotel Group’s entrance aligns with the Kingdom’s ambition to position itself as a global tourism hub. The Group’s presence in the market is expected to support this evolution, while introducing travellers to Barceló’s distinct blend of Spanish hospitality, elevated service, and locally inspired experiences.
ReturningtotheArabianTravelMarket 2025, José Canals, Managing Director for Middle East, Asia, Mediterranean and North Africaat Barceló Hotel Group, says: “Our expansion into Saudi Arabia is a natural progression for a brand that’s seeing record demand from the Gulf. This is more than a new opening, it’s a long-term investment into one of the world’s most dynamic travel markets. We are excited to bring the Barceló experience to the Kingdom and contribute to its growing appeal among regional and international travellers.”
Barceló Hotel Group continues to deepen its presence across other key GCC markets: In Bahrain, the upcoming Barceló Hotel & Residences, Bahrainis entering its final stages ahead of launch, promising a refined new offering in the heart of the capital. The Group is also on track to open a new property in Oman before the end of 2025.
With over 65,000 rooms worldwide, the group operates under four distinct brands, Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts, and Allegro, each delivering tailored offerings across urban, leisure, and resort experiences. From established favourites to emerging destinations, the Group’s growing portfolio reflects a strategic vision rooted in innovation, cultural connection, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
For more information about Barceló Hotel Group and its expansion strategy, visit www.barcelo.com.
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