IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in the hospitality industry, has recently announced a significant expansion in Saudi Arabia with the signing of a franchise agreement for Hotel Indigo Abha. This strategic move, in partnership with Firdous Abha Hotel Holding Company and managed by Aleph Hospitality, reinforces IHG’s commitment to enhancing its Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio and contributing to the burgeoning tourism sector in the Kingdom.
Hotel Indigo, a part of the IHG Luxury & Lifestyle collection, is renowned for offering guests immersive experiences in some of the world’s most culturally rich neighborhoods. With 278 hotels either operational or in the pipeline globally, each Hotel Indigo property uniquely reflects the local culture, trends, and gastronomy, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
Slated to open in December 2025, Hotel Indigo Abha is poised to provide a distinctive and luxurious experience in the Arabian Highland. The 110-room hotel will draw inspiration from its local surroundings, offering guests an authentic connection to the area. Amenities will include a restaurant, coffee lounge, state-of-the-art MICE facilities, and a fitness room, blending comfort with authenticity in this culturally and naturally rich destination.
Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East, and Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, highlighted Abha’s scenic landscapes and adventure opportunities. He noted the city’s existing portfolio of unbranded and local hotels and recognized the potential for introducing IHG’s unique hospitality experiences. Mattar emphasized that this initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s 2030 strategy, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to foster sustainable development in the southern region and attract over 10 million visitors annually to the Aseer region by 2030.
Ayed Nasser Al-Qahtani, Owner and Representative of Firdous Abha Hotel Holding Company, expressed pride in partnering with IHG to bring Hotel Indigo to Abha. He anticipates that this collaboration will significantly transform Abha’s hospitality sector, combining IHG’s global expertise with local insights to redefine the city’s hospitality offerings.
Tariq Dowidar, Vice President of Saudi Arabia at Aleph Hospitality, shared his excitement about managing Hotel Indigo Abha, marking the first property in their portfolio in the Kingdom. He looks forward to the hotel’s opening and its contribution to the city’s landscape.
Abha, recognized as a premier summer destination for both domestic and international travelers, is a key city in Saudi Arabia’s 2030 Vision. The city currently hosts a variety of unbranded or locally branded hotels. The introduction of Hotel Indigo in Abha is a testament to IHG’s commitment to delivering tailored hospitality experiences and setting new standards in the industry. Located on the main road connecting Khamis Meshit City and Abha Airport, Hotel Indigo Abha promises unparalleled accessibility and convenience for tourists, further enhancing the region’s appeal.
IHG’s Portfolio in Saudi Arabia
This development is not just a milestone for IHG but also a significant step forward for Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry, offering world-class hospitality and elevating the travel experience for visitors to this unique and captivating part of the world.
