Radisson Hotel Group Announces Bold Expansion Now, Aiming for more than Hundred Hotels in the Middle East by 2030

Published on June 30, 2025

Radisson Hotel Group is continuing its strong momentum in the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) and APAC (Asia-Pacific) regions, operating or constructing over 1,520 hotels. The recently revealed news of the company being on track to reach the impressive 150 hotels in the Middle East goal by 2030 is testament to the sheer growth the company is targeting in the focus area. The announcement is in the follow-up to the company having added over 300 hotels to the group’s portfolio in the course of 2024, further reiterating Radisson’s ambitions to continue to expand its footprint across the globe.

Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer of Middle East and Africa for Radisson Hotel Group, shared the company’s enthusiasm for its future in the region. “In the Middle East, we have nearly 100 hotels in operation and under development, and we’re on track to reach 150 by 2030,” he said in a recent interview. The Middle East continues to play a vital role in the company’s long-term strategy, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where the group has seen strong success.

Radisson’s Growing Presence in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is central to Radisson’s expansion strategy in the region. Currently, nearly half of Radisson’s Middle Eastern hotels are based in the Kingdom, with close to 50 hotels already operational or in development. This rapid growth aligns with the Saudi Vision 2030, a long-term national development plan aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing its dependency on oil. Cordon emphasized the importance of the Kingdom in Radisson’s development: “Saudi Arabia’s role in our long-term growth strategy is undeniable.”

Radisson is preparing to open several flagship properties in Saudi Arabia, including the third Radisson Collection in Riyadh, a high-end luxury brand in the group’s portfolio. Additionally, the introduction of the Radisson RED brand to Ras Al Khaimah, a coastal destination in the UAE, is another exciting project for Radisson in the region.

Optimistic Outlook for 2025 Despite Global Uncertainties

As global geopolitical and economic challenges persist, Radisson remains optimistic about the travel and hospitality sectors. Cordon pointed to the ongoing resilience of both leisure and bleisure (business + leisure) travel as key drivers of growth. He noted, “Despite global uncertainties, we remain optimistic. Leisure and bleisure demand continue to thrive, business travel rebounds, and destination-led growth in markets like Saudi Arabia and Vietnam remains strong.”

To adapt to these changes, Radisson has taken proactive measures to offer more flexible hybrid offerings and extended stays. The company has also introduced enhanced digital guest experiences, including its revamped Radisson Rewards program, which now boasts over 20 million members globally.

Key Focus Areas: Events and Community Engagement

Radisson has been placing a significant emphasis on events as a key driver of its commercial strategy. Cordon revealed that the company tailors its offerings and marketing efforts around major regional events, which include everything from sports and healthcare events to automotive and entertainment conferences. Radisson’s Radisson Meetings and industry-specific event solutions cater to a wide range of sectors, providing personalized experiences for event organizers and participants.

Additionally, Radisson is embracing the importance of a holistic distribution strategy that balances direct booking channels with partnerships through travel agents. Cordon highlighted that nearly one in two bookings comes through the group’s RHG commercial engine, further showcasing the power of integrated marketing and sales platforms.

Balancing Operational Efficiency and Sustainable Practices

Operational efficiency remains a cornerstone of Radisson’s approach. “Operational efficiency is core to our value proposition,” said Cordon. The group continues to invest in innovative systems, such as Pulse by RHG, which uses data-driven decision-making to improve performance across all properties. Radisson also integrates AI-powered technology to streamline processes, from revenue management to back-of-house kitchen operations.

The group is also committed to sustainability, actively pursuing eco-friendly practices across its properties. Efforts include the use of digital housekeeping and inventory management systems to reduce waste and improve productivity. Radisson aims to not only enhance guest experiences but also reduce its environmental impact in line with global sustainability goals.

A Resilient Future for the Middle East

Cordon outlined the diverse landscape of opportunities and challenges in the Middle East, noting that countries like Kuwait are seeing a resurgence in business travel, while Qatar is transitioning post-World Cup to leverage its strength in meetings and events. The UAE, despite its competitive market, continues to thrive due to its tourism and event-driven economy, while Oman is capitalizing on the demand for experiential and cultural tourism. In Bahrain, the focus on MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and leisure tourism remains strong.

The Middle East’s diverse offerings and ongoing development make it an essential area of focus for Radisson’s global expansion plans, positioning the region as a key player in the global hospitality market.

Conclusion

The very quick growth of Radisson Hotel Group in the EMEA and the APAC, especially the Middle East, highlights the area’s mounting relevance within the wider travel environment. Saudi, Qatar, and the UAE are the leaders in the trend, and Radisson’s strategic investments in the luxury segment, environmental tourism, and events-based travel will drive the company’s 2025 and onwards growth.

(Source: UAE Tourism.)