RIYADH — Al Khozama Company, the award-winning and pioneering luxury hospitality and property management company, has confirmed the start of the second phase of its ambitious The District Al Faisaliah redevelopment project, incorporating Al Faisaliah Tower, Al Khairiah Towers, Al Faisaliah Hotel, Al Faisaliah Suites, Hotel Al Khozama and the Mode Al Faisaliah Mall in the Olaya District. The visionary project will further strengthen the global recognition of Riyadh as the ultimate Middle East destination city linking true Saudi heritage with world-class hospitality, retail and entertainment. The first phase of The District project announced in 2017 saw the refurbishment and expansion of the Mode Al Faisaliah Mall, extending its square-meter footprint by 20 percent to offer premium retail space of 35,400m², and to introduce internationally renowned restaurant brands to the Kingdom, including Yauatcha, Meraki, Mamo Michelangelo, La Petite Maison and La Brasserie. In close proximity to the mall, the world-renowned Al Faisaliah Hotel, which has welcomed global leaders and high-profile guests for more than 20 years, is also currently undergoing renovation as part of this phase and is scheduled for completion in 2021. The second phase of The District transformation incorporates futuristic architectural design with intelligent urban planning, to create the perfect integration of contemporary retail, commercial, entertainment, hospitality, well-being and residential living. The redevelopment includes a cinema complex with 9 movie screens, and fully landscaped outdoor green areas with water features and leisure amenities. Direct access to the Riyadh Metro, and a five-level underground parking facility for more than 1,000 cars, ensures the ultimate in convenience, safety and easy accessibility for Riyadh’s residents and visitors. As part of the redevelopment, the historic Hotel Al Khozama — one of the first hotels to open in Riyadh more than 40 years ago — will close in August 2020, and will be replaced with a new contemporary 5-star hotel that will deliver the hospitality brand’s exemplary customer service for a new generation. The new property, scheduled for completion in 2024, will offer 200 guest rooms and suites, two restaurants, connected meeting rooms, a ballroom, spa & health club, and pool deck. Commenting on the significant role the company continues to play in real estate development in the Kingdom, and particularly in Riyadh, Prince Bandar Bin Saud Bin Khalid, chairman Al Khozama, said: “The strategy followed by Al Khozama Company is aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 in creating new benchmarks and opportunities for excellence, and contributing to the country’s long-term success. The District is one such example.” Khalid Saud Abu Haimed, chief executive officer of Al Khozama Company, added: “Under the leadership and direction of our chairman, we are proud to achieve significant success in hospitality, retail centres and F&B to create an unrivalled lifestyle and unique experience for the Saudi community and its guests.” The SR2-billion The District redevelopment project, designed by award-winning USA based architectural firm Gensler, is scheduled for completion in 2024. — SG