Saudi Arabia is on the verge of completing the world’s largest hotel, the Abraj Kudai, set to surpass all hospitality records.
With a staggering estimated cost of £2.7 billion ($3.5 billion), this colossal project aims to address the accommodation challenges faced during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca.
Upon completion, the Abraj Kudai will boast an unprecedented 10,000 rooms, eclipsing the current record held by the MGM Grand Las Vegas, which has 6,852 rooms.
The hotel’s design includes a remarkable ring of 12 towering structures, each soaring 45 stories high. Among these, 10 towers will provide 4-star hotel services, while the remaining two will offer premium 5-star accommodations.
Impressively, the hotel will feature a remarkable 70 restaurants, rivalling the dining options found in entire city neighbourhoods. The inclusion of helipads for helicopters and light aircraft further adds to the hotel’s grandeur.
Situated just a mile from the Great Mosque of Mecca, the Abraj Kudai will serve as a hub for pilgrims during the Hajj, offering a full-size convention center capable of hosting large gatherings and events.
Additionally, a massive dome atop the tallest tower will enhance the building’s architectural elegance.
The inspiration behind this monumental project lies in the challenges faced during the Hajj, where Mecca’s hotels are often fully booked, leaving some pilgrims in makeshift accommodations.
The Saudi Arabian government spearheaded the initiative to construct Abraj Kudai as a solution to provide ample and comfortable lodging for pilgrims undertaking the Hajj.
Managing this colossal endeavour is the Beirut-based consulting firm, Dar Al-Handasah, known for its expertise across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The interior design of the hotel falls under the purview of London-based firm Areen Hospitality, while the construction responsibilities were entrusted to the Binladin Group, a Jeddah-based conglomerate.
However, the project faced setbacks, including a slump in oil prices and a temporary ban on the Binladin Group following a tragic incident where a crane fell into the Grand Mosque, resulting in the loss of 107 lives.
Despite these challenges, the Abraj Kudai is now on track to redefine luxury and scale in the world of hospitality, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to accommodating the needs of pilgrims on their spiritual journey.
