Hilton and Alshaya Group announced on July 31 the exclusive signing of a master development agreement to launch and develop 70 Hampton by Hilton hotels in nine countries, mostly in the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, and Russia, Invest-Gate reports.

Alshaya Group plans to deliver 50 hotels in the upcoming eight years, with the first hotel expected to open in Kuwait in 2021, significantly expanding Hampton by Hilton’s presence in the region, according to a released statement. It added that the group is having another 20 in the development pipeline.

Commenting on the agreement signing, President and CEO of Hilton Chris Nassetta said, “Alshaya has been an important partner, particularly as we celebrate 100 years of pioneering the hospitality industry this year, and we look forward to working together to introduce travelers to Hampton by Hilton in these high-growth destinations.”

On his part, Alshaya Group Executive Chairman said, “There is a strong and growing demand for high-quality accommodation in the region and we are excited by the potential of the Hampton by Hilton brand.”

“This is an important new partnership for Alshaya, further diversifying our offer to consumers, and allowing us to replicate the global success of Hampton by Hilton in our operating markets.”

Hampton by Hilton is a hospitality brand in the focused service hotel category, operating in 27 countries and territories around the world with nearly 2,500 hotels. It is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 17 distinct hotel brands, offering those booking directly through Hilton channels access to instant benefits such as a flexible payment slider that allows them to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, and free standard WiFi.

Hampton by Hilton continues to lead the category in guest satisfaction worldwide, with each hotel committed to the industry-leading 100% Hampton Guarantee.