Best Places to Stay in Riyadh Saudi Arabia

Where to Stay in Riyadh: A Guide for Travelers

Riyadh, the vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia, offers a diverse range of accommodation options for every type of traveler. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly apartments, here’s a breakdown of some popular areas and lodging types in Riyadh:

Luxury Hotels:

  • Al Faisaliah District: This upscale neighborhood boasts modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh and the Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, offering stunning views and top-notch amenities.

    • Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh: Known for its luxurious rooms, fine dining options (including the renowned Elements restaurant), and impressive rooftop pool overlooking the city.
    • The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh: This landmark hotel is a favorite among travelers for its opulent suites, world-class spa, and central location within the Diplomatic Quarter.

  • Olaya: A bustling commercial and residential area with upscale hotels like the Holiday Inn Riyadh - Riyadh Business District and the JW Marriott Hotel Riyadh.

    • Hilton Riyadh Hotel & Residences: Offers luxurious accommodations with a focus on business amenities, as well as a variety of dining options and spacious rooms with kitchenettes.
    • The Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya: A popular choice for its modern design, excellent service, and convenient location for exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Diplomatic Quarter: Home to many embassies, this area offers a range of international hotels with comfortable rooms and amenities.

  • Riyadh Boulevard: This entertainment and shopping destination has several hotels along its luxurious strip, catering to both business and leisure travelers, including the InterContinental Riyadh and the Sheraton Riyadh Hotel & Towers.

    • Consider: These hotels offer good value for money and are often a good base for exploring other parts of the city.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation:

  • Riyadh Airport: Conveniently located near the airport, offering affordable rooms with easy access to transportation.
  • Downtown Riyadh: Located in the heart of the city, these options provide basic but comfortable accommodation at lower prices.

Consider these factors when choosing where to stay:

  • Location: Are you visiting for business or pleasure?

    • Business travelers: Look for hotels in the Diplomatic Quarter (DQ) like the Diplomatic Quarter Hotel Riyadh and The Marriott Executive Apartments Riyadh.
    • Leisure travelers: Choose a hotel with easy access to attractions and shopping, like those near Riyadh Boulevard or the King Fahd International Stadium.

  • Budget:

    • Luxury: Expect high-end amenities, luxurious rooms, and stunning views. These hotels are often part of larger complexes with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
    • Mid-range: Comfortable accommodations with a good balance of quality and affordability.
    • Budget: More basic options for travelers seeking value-driven stays.

  • Activities:

    • Shopping: The Riyadh Gallery and Nakheel Tower are popular choices.
    • Entertainment: Many hotels in Riyadh are located near the city’s vibrant entertainment scene, with options like The Kingdom Centre, which offers a variety of dining and entertainment options.

  • Amenities:

    • Restaurants & Bars: For those seeking fine dining, luxurious hotels offer it within their premises (e.g., Riyadh Four Seasons Hotel).
    • Shopping Malls: The Riyadh Gallery is a great option for shopping and dining, with convenient access to the King Fahd International Stadium and other attractions.

Accommodation Types:

  • Hotels:

    • Luxury Hotels: These are your best bet for comfort and convenience. Expect top-notch amenities like swimming pools, spas, gyms, and fine dining options.
    • Boutique Hotels: For a more unique experience, explore Riyadh’s growing scene of boutique hotels offering stylish and personalized stays.

Tips for Choosing a Hotel:

  • Consider your purpose: Are you looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo trip? Each type of travel requires different considerations (e.g., location, amenities).

  • Research online: Use websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor to find reviews and pictures of hotels in the area you’re planning to visit.

  • Look for deals: Prices for accommodation can vary widely depending on the season and demand.

Consider these factors when choosing a hotel:

  • Location: Are you looking to stay near a specific attraction or in a particular neighborhood?
  • Amenities: Some hotels offer amenities like swimming pools, gyms, spas, restaurants, and cafes. Others may be more basic but still offer a comfortable place to stay.
  • Budget: Prices for accommodation in Riyadh vary depending on the type of hotel you choose.

Popular Hotel Choices:

  • For a luxurious experience:

    • Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh: Known for its elegant rooms, fine dining options, and luxurious amenities, it’s a great choice for those who want to be pampered.
    • Hotels near the Diplomatic Quarter (DQ):
      • Riyadh Marriott Hotel: Offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the city.

  • For a more affordable stay:

    • Raddison Blu Hotel: A reliable option for those looking for value and affordability.

Luxury Hotel Pros & Cons:

  • Pros:

    • High-quality amenities: Modern rooms, fitness centers, pools, and spas are often available in luxurious hotels.
    • Excellent service: Expect top-notch amenities and personalized service.

  • Cons:

    • Higher price point: Luxurious hotels are the most expensive option.
    • Limited dining options: While they may offer excellent restaurants, they tend to be more expensive than outside alternatives.

Riyadh’s Diverse Neighborhoods:

  • Diplomatic Quarter: This area offers a range of accommodation options near the heart of diplomatic activity in Riyadh.

Alternative Accommodation:

  • Consider checking into hotels outside the Diplomatic Quarter for potentially lower rates.
  • Olaya (near the city center): Offers a more vibrant and diverse range of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxury.
  • Riyadh Boulevard: This area offers a variety of entertainment options and restaurants.

Consider using websites like Airbnb and Booking.com to find alternative accommodation options in Riyadh.

Specific Tips for Riyadh:

  • Near City Centre: Look for hotels in areas like the Diplomatic Quarter or close to popular attractions.
  • Away from Tourist Hubs: For a more affordable option, consider staying in a less touristy area and travelling into the city centre for activities.

Finding Affordable Stays:

If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Riyadh that offer comfortable stays. Look for places outside the main tourist hubs or those with simple amenities.

For a unique experience:

  • Consider staying in a hotel near the Riyadh Gallery for easy access to the city’s vibrant cultural and entertainment scene.

Beyond Hotels:

  • Luxury hotels are often located in the heart of the city, offering luxurious rooms and suites.
  • Apartments: Look for accommodations in areas like Al-Murabba, Batha, and Faisaliah.

Remember:

  • Location: Prices for hotels can vary significantly depending on their location.
  • Reviews: Pay attention to reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the price point and value offered by different accommodation options.
  • Timing: Prices are generally lower during the off-season (summer months).

For a budget-friendly stay, consider looking for accommodations in areas like Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, which is a popular choice for its luxurious hotels.