MIDDLE EAST. Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has announced a strategic investment of US$100 million to enhance its footprint in the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia a prime focus.
This investment is intended to reinforce PPG’s position as a bridge between the Middle East and other prominent international destinations.
According to the group, the funds will be allocated to opening world-class lounges, establishing a global airport concierge service with white-glove service, creating innovative dining outlets, and exploring opportunities for in-terminal hotels.
Since establishing a presence in the Middle East in 2014, PPG has built a strong portfolio of airport lounges, hotels, and F&B outlets.
The company currently operates in 15 locations across eight international airports within key regional cities including Amman, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Dubai and Muscat. Globally, PPG is currently active in 80 airports, across 30 countries and 250 locations.
With the Middle East tourism sector expected to grow at an annual rate of approximately +7.7% until 2032, and Saudi Arabia investing over US$100 billion to become a global aviation hub, PPG’s investment is designed to establish a corporate presence in the Kingdom and support the company’s goal of expanding its global footprint to 500 locations by 2025.
This targeted investment in the Middle East is part of a larger US$300 million investment that PPG plans to make over the next three years worldwide.
PPG Founder and CEO Song Hoi-See said the projected investment will help to further elevate PPG’s portfolio while simultaneously adding value to development of airport hospitality services at existing and upcoming destinations throughout the Middle East.
He said: “This is an exciting time to invest in the Middle East, a region that exemplifies the future of travel and tourism. It is rich in ancient culture yet embraces modernity, reflecting PPG’s ethos of innovation and growth alongside our travel partners.”
PPG Deputy CEO Bora Isbulan has been appointed to lead this initiative. His role will encompass overseeing the business development, commercial and marketing divisions, as well as forging strong partnerships throughout the region. PPG’s ambition is to establish a presence in the world’s 100 busiest airports worldwide.
Isbulan said: “I am thrilled to return to a region I know well. We are eager to increase our footprint in the Middle East, with a particular focus on the emerging opportunities in Saudi Arabia.”
PPG said this expansion underscores its commitment to enhancing the travel experience for over 20 million passengers it caters to annually across the globe. ✈️
