Accor's Middle East Strategy: Paul Stevens on Saudi Expansion, Second Cities & Local Authenticity
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Sure. Paul Stevens here. I'm the CEO for Middle East, Africa and Turkey for what we call premium mitscale and economy brands.
So there's another 45 hotels to come and we call that the pipeline.
The second tier cities is an interesting comment because if you think about the size of Saudi Arabia, I mean it's the 11th biggest country in the world.
We really want to bring back that authenticity whether it be through food, culture, language or religion so everyone can experience that.
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Accor's Middle East Strategy: Paul Stevens on Saudi Expansion, Second Cities & Local Authenticity In this exclusive interview, Paul Stevens, the CEO of Accor's Premium, Midscale, and Economy brands for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, discusses the company's strategic vision for 2030. He highlights Accor's significant presence in Saudi Arabia, where it currently operates 44 hotels, with another 45 in the development pipeline. Stevens also shares insights on the importance of expanding into "second and third-tier cities" in Saudi Arabia, which he describes as an "interesting comment" due to the country's size and diverse tourist offerings. This expansion focuses on the growth of midscale and economy hotels in these regions, which hold unique historical and cultural sites. Stevens emphasizes the shift away from "cookie-cutter" hotel designs to an approach that embraces local culture, food, and language, providing travelers with an authentic experience. He believes Saudi Arabia is perfectly positioned for this approach, as it remains largely "untouched" by foreign tourists who have only been able to visit since 2019. Accor aims to maximize these opportunities by empowering local staff through a strong development program that offers a clear career roadmap. Timestamps: 00:00 - AIOR’s Network and Vision 2030 01:26 - AIOR in Saudi Arabia's Second-Tier Cities 03:16 - Regional Connectivity in Saudi Arabia 🌍 Travel And Tour World (TTW) is a trusted B2B digital travel, tourism, hospitality, cruise, and airline industry magazine and trade network, with an extensive global reach across 195 countries and a readership of over 15 million industry leaders – including travel operators, tour agents, destination management companies, MICE planners, luxury travel curators, influencers, and thought leaders. Since 2009, TTW has been a proud media partner for 1200+ global travel trade shows, offering in-depth coverage, exclusive interviews, and professional insights that drive business growth and foster strong industry connections. Our channel brings together the latest news, expert conversations, and behind-the-scenes access to the world’s most prestigious travel and hospitality events. 🎥 Other Recommended Videos / Playlists https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8FMsUI08uY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W35LMyN00Y4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHTGim4NTGM Travel And Tour World is more than a magazine – it’s a global trade communication platform for the travel and hospitality ecosystem. We provide digital publications, industry-specific reports, exposure at travel trade shows, and advertising solutions tailored for businesses in tourism, hospitality, airlines, cruise lines, and MICE sectors. We connect industry professionals with curated content that fosters new opportunities, strategic partnerships, and growth in international markets. Whether for brand visibility, networking, or thought leadership, TTW empowers global stakeholders to shape the evolving travel industry with innovation and collaboration. With this approach, Travel And Tour World continues to foster meaningful connections with the industry leaders contributing to the growth and success of the industry. Subscribe for weekly travel industry insights and exclusive content! #HospitalityGrowth #ThirdPartyManagement #GCCHotels #NorthAfricaHospitality #HotelManagement #HotelOperations #RevenueManagement #CentralReservations #HotelMarketing #HotelOwnerTips #HospitalityInsights #HotelIndustry #HotelFranchise #HotelDevelopment #HospitalityManagement #TomStevens #FirstGroupHospitality #GCC #HotelInvestment #HotelROI #FranchiseVsManagement #TomGStevens #DubaiHotels #GCCHospitality #AfricaHotels #TravelIndustry #SharedServices #TalentDevelopment 🔗 Website Link Visit us: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/ Connect With Us: 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ttwemagazine 💼 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/travel-and-tour-world 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelandtourworld 🎬 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TravelAndTourWorld