The 302 residential unit development by Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction Company marks the European hospitality icon’s first branded residences project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Geneva, Switzerlandand Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – 29 April 2026: Kempinski Group, Europe’s oldest luxury hospitality company, today announced Kempinski Residences at Masar, Makkah, its first branded residences project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Developed by Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction Company, the owner, developer, and operator of the Masar destination in the Holy City of Makkah, the project brings Kempinski’s 150-year legacy of luxury hospitality to the prestigious Masar development, in the heart of Makkah, within the vicinity of the Grand Mosque.
A signing ceremony took place in Munich at the Kempinski Group offices, in the presence of senior officials from both organisations, including Yasser Abuateek, CEO of Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction and Barbara Muckermann, CEO, Kempinski Group, reflecting the increasing presence of major international brands destined for the Masar development.
The Kempinski Residences at Masar, Makkah, is regarded as an iconic address that offers spiritual connectivity, investment security, and long-term value appreciation. When complete, the development will provide an unparalleled blend of luxury, exclusivity, and world-class hospitality for discerning residents. Facilities will include premium five-star amenities such as private executive lounges, a Boulevard Café, a high-end wellness centre, and signature dining, as well as dedicated concierge and valet services, all delivered to Kempinski’s impeccable standards.
The branded residences will be further distinguished by the quality of the interiors, which will include hand-selected materials, bespoke finishes, and refined aesthetics, as well as a wide array of smart home features and modern conveniences. With 302 serviced residential units of varying sizes and flexible ownership options, the project represents a significant addition to the high-end residential offerings within the Masar destination. The residences will be part of a wider mixed-use development that will include a Kempinski hotel and a retail component, standing as the epitome of refined urban living in the sought-after district.
Kempinski Group was founded on the simple but enduring belief: that hospitality should enable guests to experience ‘The Good Life.’ Since its origin, Kempinski has defined luxury not as status or formality, but as generosity and joy, qualities that will add significantly to the experience of visitors and residents in the new destination, which will support spiritual connectivity and cultural appreciation.
Commenting on the signing of the agreement, Barbara Muckermann, CEO, Kempinski Group, said, “Kempinski focuses on developing distinctive properties that are deeply resonant of their destinations, preserving and celebrating their cultural heritage. Working with Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction, we will shape Kempinski Residences at Masar, Makkah into a fitting addition to the evolving range of residential offerings in the Holy City, enabling strong spiritual immersions for guests and residents alongside other curated experiences and cultural opportunities in the destination.”
Yasser Abuateek, CEO of Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction, said, “The presence of Kempinski Residences in the Masar destination enhances the diversity of residential options within the destination, in line with the company’s focus on providing an integrated urban environment. The project will be distinguished by its diverse spaces and practical designs that consider the needs of residents and visitors. In addition, it provides essential facilities and services that support privacy, exclusivity, and quality of life in Makkah.”
The project further expands the presence of prestigious hotel brands within the Masar destination and makes a significant contribution to diversifying the accommodation and service options in the Holy City.
Photo caption: Yasser Abuateek, CEO of Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction and Barbara Muckermann, CEO, Kempinski Group, sign the agreement for Kempinski Residences at Masar, Makkah.
About Kempinski
Created in 1872, Kempinski Group is Europe’s oldest luxury hospitality company. Kempinski’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today, the Kempinski Group operates 75 hotels and residences in 33 countries and has more than 25 prestigious projects currently under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each one imbues the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. www.kempinski.com www.ghadiscovery.com www.kempinski.com/loyalty