Saudi-Made Systems are Targeting High End Hotels, Resorts and Public-Realm Projects

Saudi Arabia is strengthening its hospitality technology base as hotels, luxury resorts and large urban projects seek smarter ways to manage lighting, charging, safety and energy use. At the Hotel & Exhibition Expo Saudi Arabia, Amr Kelani, Business Development Manager of Europe, Azood Company, TTW Correspondent, Muhammad spoke exclusively with Travel And Tour World about the company’s locally made smart infrastructure solutions and the growing role of intelligent systems in the Kingdom’s tourism development.

Kelani said the exhibition reflected the pace of modernisation in Saudi Arabia. He highlighted the international presence at the event, where companies from Europe and other global markets presented products and services for hotels, commercial spaces and major development projects.

The discussion focused on how smart lighting controls, electric charging technology, CCTV systems and sensor-based infrastructure can support a hospitality sector preparing for a larger volume of domestic and international travellers.

Hotel and Hospitality Expo Saudi Arabia draws global technology suppliers

Kelani described the exhibition as an important platform for companies bringing modern technologies into the Saudi market. Having attended trade events internationally over the years, he said the scale, organisation and international participation at the Saudi event stood out.

According to Kelani, the expo created an opportunity for suppliers, developers and hospitality businesses to see a wide range of technology solutions in one place. The presence of international exhibitors also showed that Saudi Arabia is becoming a stronger market for hotel technology, tourism infrastructure and smart-city investment.

For hotel operators, events such as this can provide direct access to suppliers working on practical challenges. These include reducing energy costs, improving guest comfort, managing outdoor spaces and using connected systems that can be monitored from a central location.

Saudi Arabia is developing new hotels, resorts, entertainment districts and mixed-use projects as part of its wider economic transformation. This expansion is increasing demand for reliable infrastructure that can serve guests while also helping operators run buildings more efficiently.

Smart technology moves beyond basic lighting

Kelani said the company specialises in several electronic sectors, including lighting, electric chargers and CCTV systems. Its focus is on providing smart solutions for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Indoor smart technology can help hotels adjust lighting and electrical systems according to the needs of different spaces. Hotel lobbies, restaurants, meeting rooms, corridors and guest areas all have different operating patterns. Automated controls can allow operators to manage these areas more carefully, rather than using the same settings throughout the day.

Outdoor systems are equally important for hotels, resorts, promenades and public spaces. Kelani explained that controlled units can be used to support large groups of people in busy outdoor areas.

This can be particularly relevant for Saudi Arabia, where many hospitality developments include outdoor attractions, waterfront districts, retail areas and public gathering spaces. Good lighting can improve visibility, atmosphere and safety. However, it must also be managed responsibly to avoid unnecessary energy use.

Kelani said the company brings modern technology into Saudi Arabia while manufacturing locally. This approach could become increasingly significant as the Kingdom expands its domestic industrial capability alongside tourism and hospitality investment.

Smart lighting can support energy efficiency

One of the central themes of the interview was intelligent lighting control. Kelani explained how dimming systems and sensors can change light levels based on the number of people using a space.

For example, a busy street, hotel entrance or public walkway may require brighter lighting during peak evening hours. When fewer people are present, systems can reduce the light output. This can lower electricity consumption while keeping the area appropriately lit.

Kelani referred to these systems as dimming solutions. Sensors can detect activity and help decide when lighting should become brighter or dimmer. The system can respond to changing levels of footfall rather than relying on fixed settings.

In practical terms, this could help hospitality businesses control operating costs. Energy use is a major consideration for hotels, especially in large properties with extensive outdoor areas, landscaping, parking facilities and public spaces.

Smart lighting is not only about switching lights on and off. It can include remote control, scheduled settings, colour adjustment and monitoring of individual units. Hotel management teams can use connected systems to oversee lighting across different locations.

Kelani said indoor and outdoor lighting items can be controlled remotely. This offers flexibility for operators who need to manage spaces at different times of the day and for different types of events.

Luxury properties need flexible infrastructure

Saudi Arabia’s pipeline of luxury tourism projects is creating a need for flexible and high-quality infrastructure. Kelani said intelligent technology is becoming increasingly important in projects under development, including locations in Riyadh and marina-related developments.

Luxury hotels and resorts are expected to offer comfort, safety and visual appeal. At the same time, they face pressure to operate efficiently. Smart infrastructure can support both aims when it is designed properly.

A hotel may need a bright and welcoming arrival area during a busy evening, but a quieter setting during the early morning. A resort may need different lighting for dining terraces, swimming pool areas, pathways and event spaces. Connected controls allow each zone to be managed according to its use.

For developers, this can create more adaptable properties. It may also help teams monitor maintenance requirements and reduce waste. The ability to control individual lighting units remotely can make it easier to identify faults or change operating settings without requiring manual intervention across every location.

Kelani stressed that the company is working to provide these solutions locally in Saudi Arabia. Local manufacturing and delivery can be important for projects that require faster technical support, tailored specifications and familiarity with local operating conditions.

Technology must improve guest experience

Although smart systems often focus on cost savings, the guest experience remains central to hospitality. Hotels do not simply need efficient buildings. They need environments that feel safe, comfortable and welcoming.

Lighting has a major effect on the way guests experience a property. It shapes first impressions at entrances, improves navigation around outdoor areas and contributes to the atmosphere of restaurants, lounges and event venues.

For international visitors, clear and well-managed public spaces can make a destination easier to navigate. This is particularly important as Saudi Arabia welcomes more leisure, business and event travellers.

Electric charging infrastructure may also become more relevant as electric vehicles become more common. Hotels, resorts and commercial developments will increasingly need to consider how charging facilities fit into parking areas and guest services.

Meanwhile, CCTV and connected monitoring systems can support security teams, although every deployment must follow applicable privacy, data protection and local regulatory requirements.

“Saudi Arabia is moving quickly towards a more intelligent hospitality future. Locally made smart systems can help hotels, resorts and public spaces improve energy use, comfort and safety. This innovation brings global technology closer to major tourism developments, supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to deliver memorable, modern visitor experiences.” — Anup Kumar Keshan, Founder and Editor-in-Chief, Travel And Tour World

A locally made technology proposition

Kelani said his team has experience in the lighting field, particularly in indoor and outdoor applications. He presented the company’s local manufacturing capability as a key part of its position in the Saudi market.

The ability to make technology solutions inside Saudi Arabia can support the country’s wider drive to expand domestic production and develop local expertise. It can also give hotel and project developers access to suppliers who understand the needs of the market.

As Saudi Arabia builds more hotels, resorts, entertainment venues and public districts, smart infrastructure will become a key part of planning. The priority will be to ensure that these systems offer real benefits for operators and guests.

At Hotel & Exhibition Expo Saudi Arabia, Kelani’s message was clear. Technology is moving from being an added feature to becoming a core part of modern hospitality development. Smart lighting, sensors, remote controls and efficient energy systems could help new Saudi properties deliver more responsive, sustainable and guest-friendly experiences.