Radisson Hotel Group strengthens Saudi presence with the conversion of Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center

daa International has announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership with Plaza Premium Group, a global leader in airport hospitality, for the management of premium hospitality services at Red Sea International Airport. 

This collaboration will see PPG implement its exceptional Plaza Premium First standards in Saudi Arabia for the first time, further reinforcing RSI’s position as a best-in-class airport that blends seamless efficiency with first-class hospitality.

The Plaza Premium Group will manage a range of premium services that include four premium lounges for passengers, five F&B outlets, and seven dining rooms catering to airport staff. In a first for Saudi Arabia, the premium departure lounges will deliver a fully a la carte dining experience for all passengers as a luxurious final touchpoint on their departure journey. 

Andrew Tyler-Smith, chief executive officer of RSI, said: “Our partnership with Plaza Premium Group marks an exciting step forward in delivering an elevated airport experience. By combining our expertise in airport management with Plaza Premium Group’s global excellence in hospitality, we are setting a new standard for comfort, service, and innovation. We look forward to welcoming travelers to our premium lounges and dining spaces, where every detail is designed to enhance their journey.” 

The new RSI airport has been thoughtfully designed to draw inspiration from the natural beauty of the desert, the serenity of a green oasis, and the vastness of the sea. This innovative design aims to eliminate the usual stresses associated with travel, offering passengers a tranquil and memorable experience from the moment they arrive. 

The terminal’s architecture is crafted to bring the exclusive feel of a private aircraft terminal to every traveler. By creating smaller, intimate spaces, the airport ensures a luxurious and personalized experience for all passengers. The lounges and F&B outlets will be meticulously designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing environment, perfectly aligning with the sustainable and high-end ethos of The Red Sea destination. 

Bora Isbulan, deputy CEO of Plaza Premium Group, commented on the partnership: “We are thrilled to join forces with Red Sea International Airport at this groundbreaking airport. With the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the forefront of our strategic priorities and significant investments allocated for the region, we take immense pride in this partnership. As the global leader in airport hospitality solutions with the largest network of lounges worldwide, we will leverage our expertise to transform this sustainable gateway into a luxury destination for discerning travelers. Our world-class teams, award-winning services and integrated technology solutions deliver personalized journeys at every touchpoint. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our commitment to elevating airport experiences while supporting the Red Sea destination’s vision for responsible luxury tourism.” 

Okan Kufeci, senior vice president, EMEA of Plaza Premium Group, said: “Our strategic partnership with Red Sea International Airport marks a significant milestone in our portfolio expansion across Middle East. By introducing Plaza Premium First standards to Saudi Arabia, we are not only enhancing the travel experience but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality solutions globally. This collaboration is a testament to our ongoing efforts to innovate and elevate airport services, setting new benchmarks for comfort and luxury.”

New Murabba, a Public Investment Fund company, participated in the real estate event “MIPIM 2025,” held from March 11-14 in Cannes, France. This year’s participation aimed to enhance international investment in the Kingdom and highlight its commitment to economic diversification.

According to a company press release issued recently, New Murabba’s presence at MIPIM 2025 featured a series of insightful sessions led by key executives. These sessions provided attendees with a deeper understanding of New Murabba’s strategic vision and its alignment with Saudi Arabia’s broader development goals.

CEO of New Murabba Michael Dyke took part in a panel discussion titled “How the Saudi Giga Projects Are Contributing to the Kingdom’s Economy and Vision 2030.”

“We are committed to collaborative development and world-class execution. New Murabba has completed 14 million cubic meters of excavation while achieving 5.5 million safe hours without lost-time incidents. This milestone enables the commencement of permanent works for The Mukaab, ensuring the groundwork is set for the next phase of construction,” said Dyke. 

He also added that this progress underscores New Murabba’s dedication to delivering a world-class destination that will redefine urban development and contribute to a vibrant live-work-visit offering within the project.

EPMO and Stakeholder Management Division Head Eissa Almunif contributed to the panel “Changing Demographics in Saudi Arabia and How This Affects Development Planning.” 

Development Director Ashwaq Albabtain joined the panel “Mega Events, Hospitality, and Leisure,” while Executive Director of Capital Partnerships Development Nida Raza participated in the discussion “The Evolving Real Estate Sector in Saudi Arabia.” 

Director of Healthcare and Education Development Reham Alawaji took part in the panel “Creating Livable Cities with Purpose.” 

These sessions provided valuable insights into the development’s strategic relevance and its potential to reshape the urban landscape.