UNEC appointed as lead contractor on DGDA hospitality project
Contractor will build the Samhan Heritage Hotel, the first of several luxury hotels in the recently announced cultural and lifestyle tourism destination
United Engineering Contracting (UNEC) has been appointed by Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) to lead construction on the Samhan Heritage Hotel site, situated in the city of Diriyah in Riyadh province, Saudi Arabia.
The hotel project is the first of several luxury hotels in the recently announced Diriyah development – a seven kilometre cultural and lifestyle tourism destination that will form an integral part of the delivery of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Marketed as the Kingdom’s cultural and historical heart, the destination will showcase Saudi Arabia’s 300 plus years of history through an engaging mix of heritage, hospitality, educational, cultural, retail and dining experiences for residents, tourists, and day visitors. It will be home to more than 20 luxury hospitality venues offering ‘authentic experiences reflecting the rich history and vibrant culture of Diriyah and the Kingdom Saudi Arabia,’ a statement said.
Samhan Heritage Hotel is situated amongst the natural beauty of Samhan district and Wadi Hanifah, only minutes from the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage site. Guests will be able to enjoy traditional Najdi hospitality, whilst enjoying a sense of past meeting present, the statement adds.
‘The original footpaths of Diriyah’s kings and heroes are recreated within the hotel grounds, connecting the unique Najdi-style courtyard rooms. Guests will be able to experience elements of the Kingdom’s rich past as they walk around the hotel’s passages and courtyards,’ it says.
DGDA’s CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: “We are pleased to announce the appointed contractor of the first hotel in Diriyah with non-other than our leading partner UNEC. The commencement of construction on Samhan Heritage Hotel, the first luxury hospitality product to be developed within Diriyah, is a major first and exciting step. The standard will be set at the highest level of quality and attention to detail, befitting of a world class, luxury hotel. We look forward to welcoming guests in 2022.”
Samhan Heritage Hotel will welcome guests across 141 guestrooms and suites, all of which will be appointed in the Najdi style, featuring traditional interiors. It will feature traditional timber ceilings, adobe material finishes, and the use of traditional Najdi patterns reflected in the walls, windows, doors, and fabric patterns.
Guests will be able to avail of three restaurants and lounges; a spa and indoor pool; and hold events and meetings in the ballroom and multiple meeting rooms featuring rooftop terraces overlooking Diriyah and the Samhan District.
Samir Ashour, General Manager of UNEC said: “Samhan Heritage Hotel will be an embodiment of history and culture coming together in a luxurious five-star hotel setting, with top hospitality services being offered to its clientele. United Engineering Construction (UNEC) is proud to be part of the construction of the 141-room hotel that will include unique restoration and rebuilding of the existing mud structure to maintain the original historical look and impression of the area. Sustainability and energy efficient systems are going to be essential components of the project”.
DGDA’s Chief Design & Development Officer Jonathan Timms said: “The appointment of UNEC and the launch of construction on the Samhan Heritage Hotel exemplifies the team’s commitment to delivering the highest quality of building standards. The Najdi inspired architecture coupled with the hotel’s world class amenities will result in a first rate offering in the international hospitality world.”
