Marriott International has appointed Marina Krasnobrizhaya as general manager of the anticipated St. Regis Riyadh Hotel, slated to open Summer 2022. In her new role, Krasnobrizhaya will lead the hotel’s pre-opening efforts and spearhead a new era of luxury in the Kingdom by introducing the style, innovation, and traditions of St. Regis to the Kingdom.
Krasnobrizhaya is the first woman to be general manager at Marriott International in Saudi Arabia and the country’s first woman to lead a luxury hotel.
“Marina brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, and we are delighted to have her join The St. Regis Riyadh,” said Ahmed Hozaien, area vice president — Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt, Marriott International. “Marina’s appointment adds valuable leadership to the property, and highlights Marriott International’s commitment to championing the advancement of women in executive positions.”
Krasnobrizhaya brings almost 17 years of international experience in the hotel industry. A Marriott International stalwart, she joins The St. Regis Riyadh following her recent position as director of operations at The Park Tower Knightsbridge, a Luxury Collection Hotel in London. Prior to this, she held senior roles at The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow and Hotel Arts Barcelona. Krasnobrizhaya has also played a core role within several pre-opening and task force missions across Marriott International’s Europe, Middle East and Africa portfolio of hotels, spending time at The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo, Hotel de la Paix, Geneva and The Ritz-Carlton, Astana.
“I am delighted to take on this new role and look forward to working with the team to deliver an uncompromising level of bespoke service and exquisite experiences in the city’s best address,” said Krasnobrizhaya.
Owned by Sela, The St. Regis Riyadh is expected to offer 83 guestrooms, including 23 suites, two signature restaurants, an outdoor pool, fitness center and spa. The St. Regis Riyadh will also feature the brand’s signature hallmarks and traditions, including its bespoke butler service and avant-garde style. The property will be a key part of “Via Riyadh,” a luxury mixed-use development with retail and entertainment outlets, located in the main zone of the Riyadh Season — the city’s five-month arts and culture festival.
The addition of The St. Regis Riyadh further strengthens Marriott International’s footprint in Saudi Arabia, where the company currently has a portfolio of more than 30 open properties and over 9,000 rooms across 10 brands.