Located in the holy district of the Haram, a site of the highest sanctity, and less than a quarter of a mile from the Holy Mosque, the 29-story Ramada(r) Makkah caters to guests looking to make the pilgrimage to Mecca during the Hajj and Umrah seasons.

Ramada Worldwide has announced the grand opening of its largest hotel, a 998-room property in the Islamic holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. 

In addition to being located within walking distance of many of the city's holy sites the property offers private underground parking, four restaurants and meeting space for up to 250 guests. Each room features high-speed Internet access, free local and long distance telephone calls, a 26-inch plasma television and an in-room safe.

The hotel, owned by Riyada International Hotels and Resorts and managed by Al Massa Hotels Company, is the Ramada brand's second property in Mecca and its 11th in Saudi Arabia.

"With the opening of this property, Wyndham Hotel Group builds upon an already strong relationship with Riyada International Hotels and Resorts as well as Al Massa Hotels," said Sean Worker, Wyndham Hotel Group senior vice president and managing director, international operations.

Riyada International Hotels and Resorts Company, developer and master licensee of Ramada hotels in Saudi Arabia, offers a wide range of hotel management and license services and specializes in the areas of hotel development and operations. The company currently operates 10 properties in eight major cities throughout Saudi Arabia.

Al Massa Hotels Company owns, operates and has equity interests in more than 20 hotels throughout Saudi Arabia, with a focus in the city of Mecca. In addition to operating five hotels under the Ramada brand name, the company also operates hotels under its own brand name of Al Massa. 

Ramada Worldwide, a member of the Wyndham Hotel Group family of lodging brands, is a chain of hotels featuring complimentary breakfast, high-speed Internet access, spa-inspired amenities and daily newspaper.

As of June 30, 2008 the brand had over 860 properties and 107,200 rooms. Select properties offer complimentary meeting rooms; banquet facilities; copy and fax services; swimming pools; and fitness centers.