Dur Hospitality and Smart Zone to Develop Riyadh’s First Smart Hotel Project

Dur Hospitality has partnered with Smart Zone Real Estate Company, a subsidiary of Saudi Telecom Company (stc), to develop a technologically advanced hotel in Riyadh. The project is positioned as one of Saudi Arabia’s first fully integrated smart hospitality developments, supporting the Kingdom’s digital transformation and tourism growth goals.

Joint Venture and Ownership Structure

The partnership includes the formation of a special-purpose company to oversee the development and operations of the hotel.

• Dur Hospitality will hold an 84% stake
• Smart Zone Real Estate Company will hold a 16% stake

This structure reflects a strategic collaboration between hospitality expertise and technology-driven real estate development.

Investment and Funding Plan

The project will be launched with an initial capital of approximately SR25,000, with total project financing capped at around SR150 million, depending on development requirements. The phased funding approach allows flexibility as the project progresses.

Location within Riyadh’s Square Development

The hotel will be built within the Square mixed-use project in Riyadh, a modern urban development designed to integrate commercial, residential and hospitality components. The site spans approximately 3,343 square metres, leased from Smart Zone Real Estate Company.

Smart Hotel Concept and Features

The upcoming hotel will incorporate advanced digital solutions and smart technologies, including:

• Intelligent room automation systems
• Digital guest services and seamless check-in experiences
• Integrated smart infrastructure for operations and energy efficiency
• Contemporary design aligned with global hospitality standards

The concept aims to enhance guest convenience while improving operational performance.

Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030

The project supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by:

• Promoting innovation in the hospitality sector
• Expanding high-quality accommodation options
• Strengthening the contribution of tourism to the national economy

It also reflects the Kingdom’s focus on adopting smart technologies across industries.

Strategic Importance for the Hospitality Sector

This collaboration highlights a growing trend of integrating technology with hospitality development. By combining digital capabilities with established hotel operations, the project is expected to set a benchmark for future smart hotel initiatives in Saudi Arabia.

The Dur Hospitality and Smart Zone partnership represents a forward-looking approach to hotel development in Riyadh. With its emphasis on innovation, efficiency and guest experience, the smart hotel project is set to play a key role in shaping the future of hospitality in the Kingdom.