Hyatt Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Makkah in Makkah, Kunder a management agreement with Jabal Omar Development Company.

This is the first Hyatt-branded hotel to open in Makkah and the first Hyatt Regency-branded hotel to open in the Kingdom.

Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya is expected to open in 2016.

Connecting travelers to who and what matters most, Hyatt Regency Makkah is located in the heart of the city.

It is a one-minute walk to the holiest shrine of Islam — Al-Masjid Al-Haram — and close to several religious sites such as Mount Arafat, Muzdalifah and Mina.

Pilgrims visit these sites each year for Haj, the largest pilgrimage in the world, and during the month of Ramadan.

Roadways make the hotel easily accessible to and from Jeddah, the region’s urban center and main port city, as well as King Abdulaziz International Airport. On the premises, 175 parking bays offer central parking, even during the busiest months.

“We are glad to announce the opening of Hyatt Regency Makkah as part of a unique urban regeneration scheme that includes hotel accommodation, commercial and retail spaces, car parking, public spaces, and public amenities to support religious, social and commercial activities,” said Shaikh Abdul Rahman Abdul Qadir Fakieh, chairman of the board, Jabla Omar Development Company.

“Worshippers coming to perform Umrah and Haj will enjoy the close proximity to Al-Masjid Al-Haram, as well as the convenient services and authentic hospitality,” he said.

Hyatt Regency Makkah is part of a mixed-use development built up of more than 2 million square meters (21,527,820 square feet).

The hotel offers 656 guest rooms — including 26 suites spanning 19 floors that range in size from 38 to 190 square meters (409 to 2045 square feet) with a Royal Suite on the 18th floor that overlooks Al-Masjid Al-Haram.

All rooms offer rich textures, designer décor and fine contemporary furnishings, as well as the latest services and facilities. 

Each guest room has been thoughtfully designed for the fulfilment of religious duties. Panoramic views of the city are enhanced by natural lighting, which permeates the hotel.

Pablo Graf, senior vice president of operations, Hyatt Hotels and Resorts — Southwest Asia, said: “We are honored to open Hyatt Regency Makkah in the holy city of Makkah with our development partners Jabal Omar Development Company.”

He added: “As we grow thoughtfully in places where our guests are traveling, we look forward to introducing additional brands such as Hyatt Place and Hyatt House to Makkah in the coming years.”

Rady Rady, general manager, Hyatt Regency Makkah, said: “Hyatt Regency Makkah offers visitors and pilgrims a unique hospitality experience, blending comfort and convenience in an energizing atmosphere.”