Dubai: Premier Inn Middle East has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Equitativa Real Estate, an international holding company providing real estate funding and investment management capabilities, marking an important step in the brand’s next phase of growth across the GCC.

The MoU outlines plans to develop six to eight Premier Inn hotels, delivering approximately 3,500 keys across key locations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Representing a total investment of around AED 2 billion, the planned expansion will double Premier Inn’s current portfolio of 3,184 keys, significantly scaling the business while bringing more great-value stays to travellers across the region.

Premier Inn Middle East, a joint venture between Emirates Group and Whitbread Plc., currently operates 11 hotels across the UAE and Qatar. The strategic partnership with Equitativa will target high-demand markets including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Riyadh and Jeddah, with a focus on city and airport locations, supporting the long-term tourism and economic ambitions of both the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

As the demand continues to rise for internationally branded, high-quality mid-market hotels, Premier Inn is well positioned to meet this need by offering guests consistent standards, prime locations, warm hospitality and great value.

Simon Leigh, Managing Director, Premier Inn Middle East, said:

“The partnership with Equitativa Real Estate is an exciting step forward for Premier Inn in the region. It supports our ambition for long-term, sustainable growth, while staying true to what we do best – offering great-value stays in the right locations. By combining our operational expertise with Equitativa’s asset management experience and regional knowledge, we look forward to bringing more Premier Inn hotels to markets where the demand for high-quality mid-market accommodation continues to outpace supply.”

Sylvain Vieujot, Chairman, Equitativa Real Estate, added:

“We’re pleased to partner with Premier Inn Middle East as we expand into hospitality. Premier Inn’s respected brand and strong value proposition align well with the needs of travellers across the GCC and the growing demand for mid-market hotels. With our local expertise as a leading real estate investment holding company in the region, we look forward to working together to support the development of high-quality hotels in key locations.”

Premier Inn currently operates 11 hotels across the Middle East - seven in Dubai, two in Abu Dhabi, and two in Doha - with plans for regional expansion. Book direct at premierinn.ae or call +971 600 500 503 to enjoy free early check-in, late check-out, 25% off food and drinks, and 30% off attractions. Terms and conditions apply. Follow @premierinngulf for updates.