Saudi Arabia’s Al Khozama Management Company is to take over the management of its two Riyadh properties from Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, ending a two-decade relationship with the US hotel operator.

Describing the move as “a significant step after 20 years of a successful relationship”, Al Khozama said it will assume direct management of the flagship Al Faisaliah Hotel and Hotel Al Khozama as of April 1, 2015.  

In addition, Al Faisaliah Resort at Durrat Arriyadh will also be managed by Al Khozama when it opens at the end of 2015. 

Al Khozama was established in 1995 and has been a pioneer in the hotel industry.  The company currently operates a collection of five-star hotels located in the Holy City, the Eastern region, and several key cities in Saudi Arabia including Bay La Sun Hotel & Marina at the King Abdullah Economic City. 

Drawing on the company’s international experience, Al Khozama will be renovating the rooms, restaurants and meeting spaces of both Al Faisaliah and Al Khozama Hotels. 

This refurbishment will maintain the outstanding reputations enjoyed by both hotels and enable the properties to continue to offer a level of service that is unparalleled in Riyadh, Al Khozama said. 

“This announcement was driven by the vision of the Chairman and by the support of the Board of Directors and the investors’ trust,” comments Al Khozama President Abdul Aziz Al Habib. “It is truly a milestone for this company. We are confident that the company will provide world-class results that will make all of us proud. I would also like to thank Rosewood and I wish them all the best with their future endeavours.” 

“Partnering with Al Khozama has been a wonderful journey and Rosewood has been instrumental in supporting Al Khozama Management Company to become one of the leading Saudi hospitality brands,” comments Radha Arora, President, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts.  “Rosewood has established an excellent reputation in the Middle East and will continue to have a presence in the region with Rosewood Jeddah and Rosewood Abu Dhabi.”

Since 1995 Al Khozama has been the front-runner in developing, managing and investing in Saudi Arabian luxury commercial property. Combining smart investment in prime properties, outstanding vision for tomorrow’s trends and an innovative approach to property management, Al Khozama has consistently set the benchmark in both operational and aesthetic standards. This legacy includes the country’s first skyscraper, the first multi-use complex and the first hotel with a 24-hour butler service, among many other landmarks. 

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages 18 luxury properties in 11 countries, with 10 new hotels under development, and is targeting 50 hotels in operation by 2020.