Chedi Hospitality has appointed Tristan Delmas as General Manager of Chedi Wadi Safar, the ultra-luxury property set within the Wadi Safar destination in Diriyah
Delmas brings more than 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, hotel operations and strategic advisory, with previous roles at Burj Al Arab, One&Only One Za’abeel and Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris.
Most recently, he served as Head of Hospitality at Barnes International, where he led the development of the group’s hospitality division. Previously, as Hotel Manager, Pre-Opening at One&Only One Za’abeel, he oversaw operational readiness across the hotel, residences and culinary operations. He also served as Hotel Manager at Burj Al Arab and held leadership roles at Four Seasons Hotel George V and Park Hyatt properties in Beijing and Washington, D.C.
His experience also includes a period with hospitality advisory firm HVS and strategic advisory work across hospitality developments in Saudi Arabia, the Maldives, Europe and the wider MENA region.
As General Manager, Delmas will oversee the pre-opening and operational strategy for Chedi Wadi Safar, including the property’s guest experience, service and positioning.
His appointment coincides with Chedi’s refreshed brand identity and the introduction of its brand essence, A Voyage Unbound, which focuses on exploration through space, landscape, shared experiences, creativity and sensory detail.
Chedi Wadi Safar will be the first property in the portfolio to implement the refreshed brand identity.
“Tristan’s appointment marks an important step as we continue to strengthen Chedi’s presence in Saudi Arabia,” said Karim Bizid, Chief Operating Officer of Chedi Hospitality. “His international experience across some of the world’s most respected luxury hospitality brands, combined with his expertise in complex pre-openings and ultra-luxury operations, makes him exceptionally well positioned to lead Chedi Wadi Safar.
“As we prepare to introduce the next chapter of Chedi brand globally, Chedi Wadi Safar represents an important expression of that evolution — deeply connected to place, culture and contemporary luxury in a way that feels both timeless and forward-looking. We are confident Tristan will play a defining role in bringing this vision to life.”
Commenting on his appointment, Tristan Delmas said: “Chedi Wadi Safar represents a truly unique opportunity to create a hospitality experience deeply connected to the cultural and historical significance of the destination while delivering the refined, understated luxury that defines the brand. It is a privilege to contribute to the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and to the Kingdom’s remarkable transformation under the leadership and support of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. I am honoured to join the project at this pivotal stage and look forward to working alongside the team to bring this vision to life ahead of the hotel’s opening.”
Set within the Wadi Safar masterplan, Chedi Wadi Safar will comprise around 85 suites and villas, alongside 20 branded private villas designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG). The property will also feature dining and wellness facilities.
