RIYADH — Hilton Worldwide chain announced its commitment to expand its business in Saudi Arabia by 600%, jumping from 15 hotels currently to 75 within the next five years, which will support the goals of Vision 2030, and provide more than 10,000 new jobs.

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khatib met here on Tuesday with the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hilton Worldwide Group Chris Nassetta.

During the meeting, they discussed the profile of Hilton Worldwide Group in Saudi Arabia with reference to the group's planned expansion to support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

In remarks following the meeting, Al-Khatib said: “Hilton’s commitment to establish new hotels in Saudi Arabia demonstrates the group's confidence in the progress and successes of the Kingdom as we continue to develop the tourism system, reach an ambitious goal of welcoming 100 million visitors by 2030, and increase the contribution of tourism to the GDP of the Kingdom from 3.5% to 10%".

"Working with world-leading hospitality and tourism companies such as Hilton group aims to expand the range and size of options available to tourists, an essential part of the ministry's plans, and work philosophy to revive the tourism sector locally and globally through partnership with the private sector.”

For his part the CEO of Hilton, said: “It is a great honor to come back to Saudi Arabia announcing plans to expand our business with the opening of new brands and hotels in various destinations across the Kingdom.”

“I commend the work that the Ministry of Tourism is doing to facilitate the development of tourism and hospitality. It is really a great time for tourism in Saudi Arabia. Hilton is also well positioned to play a leading role in Vision 2030 to create new jobs. We welcome visitors from all over the world to our hotels. ” — SPA