Saudi Arabia's geographic location, its economic significance, and the country where the two holy Islamic cities in the world are located at boost the Kingdom's positioning as the business hub of the region and the world. This strategic importance highly supports the Kingdom's hospitality sector as its main role is to accommodate the anticipated increase in the number of visitors to the Kingdom whether they come for business, tourism or religious purposes. Several plans are being developed to restore major historic and touristic sites across the Kingdom to position Saudi Arabia on the world tourism map. The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) works to enhance the role of tourism sector as major contributor in achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the National Transformation Program 2020. In light of all the above, Makarem participated for the 2nd year in a row at the World Travel Market (WTM), the leading global event for the travel industry and industry professionals, that was held in London last Nov. 7-9. Makarem, the Saudi hotel brand of Dur Hospitality, participated in WTM to shed light on the Kingdom›s huge tourism potential, and represented as a Saudi brand, the expertise of local operators. Dr. Dennis Sorin, President of Hotel Operations at Dur Hospitality, said "Makarem participated in this international event to showcase its development strategy and expansion plan, thus enhancing the brand's position as a Saudi brand specialized in providing its hospitality services for the holy cities as per the international hospitality standards." He added: "Makarem hotels are widely spread across the Kingdom and our endeavor is to showcase our expertise in hotel operations which makes Makarem the partner of choice for hotel owners who are looking for a trusted partner that can operate their hotel property on their behalf." Moreover, Dr. Sorin said "customers' satisfaction is our mission at Makarem and participating in such an event allowed us to understand the increased needs and demands of international religious or business visitors, thus achieving a higher return on investment for our stakeholders. Makarem's innovative services has surpassed the traditional norm in an attempt to enrich the customers' experience throughout their stay." — SG
