Most of the world’s largest hotels are in Las Vegas; the Venetian/Palazzo complex has more than 7,000 rooms, giving it the number one spot worldwide. But a new property is going up in Saudi Arabia that will move the title there.
A mixed-use complex being built at Abraj Kudai in Mecca will include 10,000 hotel rooms. It is due to be finished in 2017, but don’t try to make a reservation: Unless you’re a Muslim, you can’t go to Mecca.
The hotel is intended to accommodate many of the millions of Muslims each year who make a sacred pilgrimage, or Hajj, to Mecca as part of their religious duty.
Recent: Airfare war in the wings? | Another carry on crackdown
Besides 10,000 guest rooms in a dozen 44-story towers, the complex will reportedly include 70 restaurants, helipads on the roof, and a large convention center.
Western hotel groups are also coming to Mecca. A Hyatt Regency is due to open this summer, and Hilton’s Conrad Makkah (the alternate spelling for Mecca) should debut next year. But you likely can’t stay at them either.
NOTE: Be sure to click here to see all recent TravelSkills posts about: Delta accused + Starwood Hotels’ new tech touches + Virgin Atlantic’s new LAX lounge + Southwest adds Oakland-Atlanta service