CIMC Modular Building Systems (MBS), which secured the contract for the Earth Riyadh Hotel in early June, is currently progressing with its plans to design, manufacture, and install prefabricated modules for the project. The company’s modular construction expertise is being deployed to streamline development of the three-storey boutique property, targeting substantial reductions in build time and environmental impact compared to traditional construction methods.

The initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s push for sustainable, efficient hospitality infrastructure, with completion scheduled for 2026.

Located in the vibrant Al Maathar district of Riyadh near key attractions and the Diplomatic Quarter, the hotel will offer 86 signature rooms, lofts, and suites designed for both business and leisure travellers. More than just a place to stay, Earth Riyadh promises an immersive experience that blends Saudi culture with laid-back vibes, bold locally inspired designs, and purposeful hospitality.

CIMC MBS, a global leader in modular construction, will provide a full spectrum of services including module design, offsite manufacturing, and on-site installation. It will produce the module units offsite using advanced factory methods before shipping them to the Al Maathar district for assembly.

A standard room at Earth Riyadh Hotel.

The modular approach is expected to accelerate the project timeline, with CIMC MBS indicating the method will cut construction time by more than 50 per cent compared to conventional building techniques. The company reports the process will also reduce on-site construction waste by 70 per cent and lower carbon emissions by about 30 per cent. On completion, the Earth Riyadh Hotel will have a total floor area of 11,000 sq m.

The project marks CIMC MBS’s first hospitality development in the Middle East and forms part of efforts to expand modular construction as a sustainable solution in regional hotel development.

“We are proud to contribute our modular expertise to this landmark project in Riyadh,” says Victor Zhu, Managing Director of CIMC MBS. “It reflects our commitment to delivering efficient, sustainable building solutions to partners worldwide.”

Earth Hotels, a design-led hospitality group built for the modern, mindful traveller, is setting the stage for its bold new openings across Saudi Arabia and Europe.

CIMC MBS will provide a full spectrum of services including module design, offsite manufacturing, and on-site installation for the project.

The hotel’s developer praised CIMC MBS’s proven technical competence and execution capabilities, noting the project as a model for supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 in smart city and tourism ambitions to establish the kingdom as the global destination for business as well as leisure travellers.

With more than 20 years of international project experience, CIMC MBS has delivered modular building solutions across more than 20 countries and regions.

In recent years, CIMC Group has actively pursued its globalisation strategy, achieving a significant milestone this year with the establishment of its Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Headquarters in Riyadh. This strategic move positions the Middle East as a key growth market, enabling better resource coordination and enhanced local service capabilities. CIMC MBS – one of the Chinese CIMC Group’s eight business units – is leveraging this strategic foothold to vigorously implement the Belt and Road Initiative whilst accelerating its market expansion across the Middle East.