Madinah will welcome the Kingdom’s second Waldorf Astoria in 2028.
With a wave of luxury hotels opening up in NEOM, the Red Sea and Riyadh, now it's Madinah’s moment in the spotlight.
Taking up residence in the former Taiba Front Hotel, the Waldorf Astoria Madinah will bring a dash of New York City inspired glamour to the Kingdom's second holiest city, in the western part of the country.
The hotel will join seven others already open across the GCC, including in Jeddah, Kuwait, Dubai International Financial Centre, and the Palm Jumeirah, plus a soon-to-be-launched outpost in Abu Dhabi.
Madinah is a special place for millions of Muslims worldwide, being the second holiest city in Islam after Makkah.
Pilgrims travel here year-round, especially during Hajj and Umrah, to visit the Prophet’s Mosque, or Al Masjid an Nabawi, which houses the Prophet Muhammad’s tomb.
The addition of a luxury hotel like Waldorf Astoria – operated by the global hospitality chain Hilton – offers visitors a chance to elevate their stay while remaining immersed in the city’s profoundly spiritual atmosphere.
Within walking distance, the property will be situated on the northern side of the Prophet’s Mosque, and is set to offer visitors and guests exclusive, direct views of the Holy site.
Ready to cater to the huge influx of regular travellers to the country, it will feature more than 300 sophisticated guest rooms and suites, alongside three world-class dining concepts including the celebrated Peacock Alley Café, one of which will be a signature dining venue. The hotel will also house two multi-functional halls, a boardroom, private club lounge, a prayer room and a top-of-the-range fitness centre.
Hilton's plans to open 100 hotels in Saudi Arabia
Carlos Khneisser, Vice President of Development for Middle East and Africa at Hilton, said: “Saudi Arabia remains one of our fastest-growing markets where we plan to grow our footprint to exceed 100 hotels in the coming years.
"Waldorf Astoria Al Madinah will bring the brand’s timeless hospitality and elegant service near one of the world’s most sacred sites."
Commenting on the partnership, Sultan Al Otaibi, CEO of development partner Taiba Investments, said: “This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our strategic growth, reflecting our unwavering commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s hospitality offering across diverse segments.
"Our collaboration with Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts will elevate tourism and hospitality by delivering an extraordinary guest experience in line with the “Pilgrim Experience Program”. This project not only reaffirms our leadership in the sector but also highlights our dedication to Saudi Vision 2030 by providing world-class accommodation that honour the Kingdom’s rich heritage.”
It comes just weeks after Waldorf Astoria announced plans to launch a new hotel in Abu Dhabi, with spectacular views over the emirate's Mangrove National Park — home to dozens of bird species and wildlife including turtles, dugongs and dolphins.
The Four Seasons is also set to open a hotel in Madinah later this year, incorporating elements of the local culture and region into its decor.
