Editor’s Picks: 16 of the best hotels in Saudi Arabia
From the glitz of The Ritz to the serenity of Habitas AlUla, there are so many keys to the Kingdom.
Whether you’re after a family-friendly destination or a romantic getaway, five-star luxury or a big-name brand, there are so many amazing hotels in Saudi Arabia. And, with headline-making new hotels in the pipeline – from Armani Hotels Diriyah to Banyan Tree AlUla – there are so many keys to the kingdom. Here are the best hotels in Saudi Arabia.
Al Faisaliah Hotel
Warning: you may encounter a splurge at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah. When riyals aren’t an issue, indulge at this luxurious hotel. Few hotels can claim that they are an architecturally recognisable part of the city’s skyline – but Al Faisaliah can, thanks to its pyramid-esque point, complete with an orb at the top. All of the rooms and suites are designed in a modern style with Arabian touches – some include a 24-hour butler service and others, like the Oasis Suite, have a private spa. The hotel’s spa includes a hammam and a 16-meter indoor swimming pool. If you do one thing, book a table at The Globe – a high-end restaurant with sky-high views – where hotel guests can get 10 per cent off the menu. Read our full review here.
Banyan Tree AlUla
Tent and luxury aren’t two words you expect to go together. Banyan Tree AlUla, with its elegant tented villas, is one of the most luxurious hotels in AlUla. The rooms include one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, some of which come with pools and a fire pit. Drawing inspiration from the Ashar Valley, it feels like you’re at one with nature. The resort includes a spa, health centre and rock pool, which sits between two soaring cliffs. Plus, the dining options include the Thai restaurant, Saffron, and Arabic restaurant, Harrat.
Fairmont Riyadh
Fairmont Riyadh is popular with business travellers, due to its location in the Business Gate complex and close proximity to King Khaled International Airport. Take your pick from 298 rooms and suites, which are simple yet sophisticated, and include Le Labo bathroom products. The Al Malaki Suite, the largest suite, is on the highest floor, fits six people and includes butler service. There are a mix of eat-before-your-fly restaurants: The Plaza serves light snacks as well as afternoon tea, The 365 prides itself on serving nine different cuisines, and Pesto is a casual Italian eatery. While the facilities include the Gentleman’s Tonic Spa, an indoor pool and a fitness centre.
Four Seasons Riyadh
Come for the plush rooms, and stay for the first-class facilities. Bag a room with a view or one of the oh-so sweet suites – the largest suite spans more than 3,500 square feet. Relaxation should be on the itinerary, as the hotel spa includes a hammam, pool and top treatments. While the fitness facilities include squash courts and a basketball court. When only exclusive will do, Four Seasons Riyadh can host a private candlelit dinner, created by its executive chef and served in the middle of the iconic Sky Bridge. Book the best seats in the house: you’ll be on the 300-meter-high bridge in the Kingdom Centre with Insta-worthy views. Read our full review here.
Habitas AlUla
When you need some R&R for the soul, check into Habitas AlUla. AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s hidden gems, a largely untouched patch of desert with history dating back to the first century BCE and UNESCO-worthy sights. Habitas AlUla allows you to experience the desert destination in style. Check into one of the villas, which boast panoramic views of the desert, Bedouin chic interiors, and concealed outdoor showers (so you’ll never miss those soaring rocks). Lookout for yoga and meditation classes – they once welcomed The Breath Guy, who hosted breathing classes. While the spa’s menu includes anti-ageing facials, hot stone massages and anti-cellulite scrubs.
Jareed Hotel
Finding a place to stay in Riyadh that balances location with luxury can prove challenging. Still, Jareed Hotel has made its mark on the capital with its beguiling blend of Arabian hospitality and an arty aesthetic. Situated in Riyadh Boulevard, Jareed Hotel may be small, with just 58 rooms and suites, but it makes a big impression. The hotel features two state-of-the-art fitness centres: Arena for men and AlMultaka for women, in addition to the day-to-night restaurant Morini and The Living Room. Read our full review here.
JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh
JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh is part of the Marriott group, and promises to be your home away from home. The hotel is all about understated luxury and the bathtubs, which feature in most rooms, provide an extra way to relax. Not all spas are created equal, but at Burj Rafal Riyadh it’s not just male-only or female-only, as it features separate areas for men and women. The Burj Rafal Spa boasts one of the best pools in Riyadh for women, as you don’t have to wait for female-only timings. While the dining options veer on handy rather than happening, from afternoon tea at The Capital Lounge to Middle Eastern food at Kitchen on 3.
Kempinski Al Othman Hotel Al Khobar
There are slick rooms and slicker suites at Kempinski Al Othman Hotel Al Khobar. If you’re travelling with the family, check out the Executive Suite – it includes a dining table for six people and if your kids are feeling a little Goldilocks, they have a choice of pillows. The hotel’s restaurants cater to a wide-range of tastes: Il Vero serves pastas and pizza, Flame offers Latin grills and Sushi Corner has, well, sushi. Plus, 1897 Cigar Lounge has an impressive list of smokes that include Montecristo, Cohiba and Partagas.
Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club and Spa
Discover the epitome of personalised luxury at Park Hyatt Jeddah – Marina, Club & Spa. This five-star resort is nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens along Jeddah’s Corniche, offering sophisticated service and breathtaking views of the Red Sea and King Fahad Fountain. With 142 luxurious rooms and suites featuring panelled windows that showcase stunning sea or garden vistas, you’ll find yourself in a sanctuary of pure indulgence. The hotel blends European architecture with Andalusian influences, creating a unique ambience. Take advantage of the aqua medic pools for a healing and soothing experience, or visit the state-of-the-art fitness centre to help you achieve your health goals. When it comes to dining, savour delightful breakfasts facing the serene Red Sea and indulge in a variety of cuisines at Andalusia restaurant. For an elegant dining experience, The Restaurant at Evania, Ladies’ Spa offers a refined menu of Middle Eastern and international dishes.
Rosewood Jeddah
Welcome to one of the most romantic hotels in Saudi Arabia. Personal butler? Check. Romantic restaurant? Check. Room with a view? Check. Thanks to the Red Sea location, we are swooning over the Rosewood Jeddah. The hotel knows how to get hearts fluttering: ask them to add fresh flowers, a cake with your loved one’s name or a bottle of non-alcoholic bubbly to your room. If that wasn’t impressive enough, book a table at Al Malaki Lounge Terrace – it serves spectacular seafood, plus beluga caviar on lobster slices and king crab meat salad with gold leaf.
Shangri-La Jeddah
Shangri-La Jeddah is on the Jeddah Waterfront. Translated: it’s within easy reach of restaurants, malls and the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. When a hotel oozes this much luxury, however, you won’t want to check out anytime soon. Choose from 220 guest rooms, 55 suites and 17 serviced apartments, which have city views or sea views. Then dine at chef Keith Yeap’s Shang Palace and order the Insta-worthy, brightly-coloured dim sum and the mouth-wateringly good Peking duck. The fitness centre includes a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, whilst the spa features a hammam for men and separate treatments for women. Plus, if you’re travelling with children, you’ll be pleased to hear there’s a kids’ club. Read our full review here.
Six Senses Southern Dunes
Six Senses Southern Dunes is a haven for wellness enthusiasts and eco-conscious travellers. With 76 thoughtfully designed rooms offering panoramic views of the desert mountains and wadis. At the heart of the resort lies the Oasis, inspired by a desert flower, where guests can discover the Earth Lab, an area showcasing the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. The resort also boasts a holistic anti-ageing centre, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments, as well as wet facilities that include cold pools and a sensory wet suite. Culinary delights abound with restaurants and bars that feature a chef’s table, cooking school and juice bar.
The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah
At The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah, grandeur meets luxury and every moment feels like a royal affair. As you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the classical architecture with Arabic punctuations, overlooking the majestic King Fahad Fountain. The opulent rooms and suites blend glamour and heritage, enveloping you in an atmosphere fit for royalty. The gastronomic treasures at the hotel’s fine dining restaurants are a must-try. Luxuriate in the elegant Arabian ambience of Saltz while savouring exquisite dishes enhanced by over 20 salts from the Red Sea and beyond. Or energise your taste buds with the all-day, flavourful dining at Reyhana. Those looking for a sweet affair can head on over to the Karamel Lounge which serves an assortment of baked goods. For a truly rejuvenating experience, make your way to the spa. Or hop into the pool after a quick workout at the gym.
The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh
If it’s good enough for BTS, it’s good enough for us. The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh is perhaps one of the most famous hotels in Saudi Arabia. This is a hotel with palatial proportions: there are 492 rooms and suites, 62,000 square feet for events and two grand ballrooms. It’s not just about the building but also its surroundings – it includes 52 acres of glorious gardens and 600-year-old olive trees. Book a table at the fine dining restaurant, Al Orjouan, which hosts seafood nights on Thursday and a popular brunch on Friday. The recreational options are endless, from the Turquoise Cigar Lounge to the Strike Bowling Alley. Note: there is a strict dress code, and you must wear traditional, formal or smart casual attire.
The St. Regis Riyadh
The St. Regis brand is renowned for its unparalleled opulence, and the new addition in Via Riyadh is no exception. Boasting 83 lavish rooms, including 23 exquisite suites, the hotel promises an indulgent experience. Guests can bask in the sun by the outdoor pool, rejuvenate their senses at the spa, or stay active at the state-of-the-art fitness centre. The trademark St. Regis butler service ensures that guests’ every desire is attended to with meticulous care. In addition, The St. Regis Riyadh features two world-class restaurants. St. Ella Restaurant is the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meanwhile, Jackie Restaurant exudes elegance with its statement staircase and lofty ceilings, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq
You’ll feel like royalty when you arrive at Waldorf Astoria Jeddah. Not only does the name Qasr Al Sharq mean “Palace of the East”, but the rooms are so opulent with intricate carpets and shimmering chandeliers. It’s all a little Venice meets Arabia – some rooms have gold frames around TVs and others have gold-trimmed headboards. More is definitely more here, as the Qasr Suite is almost 4,500 square feet and includes an 18-person dining table. If you want a romantic restaurant, look no further than Aromi with its Venetian-inspired menu, white tablecloths, red roses and views overlooking the Red Sea.
