We’ve tried and tested all the best hotels in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from boutique boltholes to top-rated luxury stays
Escape to exceptional design.
Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a must-visit destination in the Middle East thanks to its unique historical sites and access to the Red Sea. And if you’re heading to the nation’s capital, then be sure to stay at one of the best hotels in Riyadh, where you can indulge in some of the warm local hospitality amid excellent design.
1. Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh | Al Olaya
This hotel underwent a renovation in 2024, and it’s dazzling all the way through. It sits in the heart of Riyadh’s Al Olaya neighbourhood, which means everything’s on the doorstep, but trust us – you won’t want to leave. Rooms and suites take luxury to new levels; Superior Rooms have glass-walled bathrooms with free-standing tubs, and if you opt for a suite, pick a corner one for epic city views. Executive Corner Suites have a huge bedroom, a living room, a marble-ensuite, and a personal butler.
The hotel’s spa is totally zen, divided into women’s and men’s sections with a whole menu of relaxing treatments, but if you’re itching to discover Riyadh, the staff can book you onto tours in and around the city. And MO’s dining spots are some of the best around: there’s all-day dining, a cake shop, a brasserie and our favourite, The Globe, which is inside the panoramic golden sphere atop the hotel and serves fine dining European cuisine.
Read more about Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia
2. Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre | Al Olaya
The Four Seasons brand, combined with Middle Eastern design and hospitality, equals ultimate luxury at the hotel brand’s Riyadh outpost. The ultra-modern skyscraper, of which the hotel takes up the top half, hides sleek interiors filled with contemporary art and furnishings that make everything feel futuristic. The 249 rooms and suites all have panoramic views, and we love their Executive Suites, which have corner windows looking out over the city, a solid marble bathroom, king sized bed and jewel-hued furnishings.
As with all Four Seasons, there’s a long list of experiences to try, from tours of the dunes to a trip to ‘The Edge of the World’ in the Saudi desert. And for their dining offer, choose from French at Café Boulud (inspired by Chef Daniel Boulud), international fare at Obaya Lounge, and various brunch, breakfast and drinks spots scattered throughout.
Learn more about Four Seasons Riyadh or Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
3. Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort | Tibrak
If being in the middle of a city isn’t your thing, Nofa, which lies 45 minutes outside Riyadh, might be the ideal escape. The property is surrounded by sweeping sand dunes, lush forest and lakes, making it feel like a true desert oasis. The thatch-style buildings, dark wood and palm trees continue through the African-inspired villas, which span from smaller bungalows to three-bedroom pads. All but the Terrace Villas have a private pool or garden, and fun interiors featuring patterned rugs and canopy beds.
Despite being out of Riyadh, there’s lots to explore, including a safari park and golf course, and activities such as horse riding, padel and kayaking. We love how family-oriented it is too: it’s got a cinema, bowling and an adventure park. And you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food – Tswalu is their signature all-day spot, but we’d recommend trying delicious meats at The Butcher’s Den for something extra special.
Find out more about Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
4. Narcissus The Royal Hotel | Al Olaya
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Located in Riyadh’s buzzing downtown district, Narcissus The Royal earns its five-star reputation on interior design alone, as it feels more like a royal Middle Eastern palace than a hotel. Think intricately carved ceilings, dripping chandeliers, plush, patterned carpets, and gold finishes. And that’s from the Classic right up to the Executive rooms and suites; our pick would be the Classic Suite, which has a huge bedroom and separate living area, or the exclusive Spa Suite, with a Jacuzzi, steam room and massage beds.
But the Narci Spa is open to all guests, featuring an indoor pool, fitness centre and range of treatments, even if you’re not in the Spa Suite. The hotel has one main restaurant, but it works extra hard to impress, with an all-day buffet comprising five show kitchens serving up cuisine from countries around the world. For somewhere to chill, the Magnolia Lounge is just the spot for a morning coffee or pastry before a big day of exploring.
Discover more about Narcissus The Royal or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
5. Jareed Hotel Riyadh | Hittin
In a city of chain hotels, Jareed has nailed a truly boutique feel in its sleek art deco design, modern amenities and five-star perks. The hotel is surrounded by local restaurants and shops, but feels hidden away, with rooms and suites that are elegant but pared back. The Boulevard View Suite, for example, features blue hues and wooden furniture, encompassing a king bed, living and dining areas, and a spacious terrace with views over the city from homely outdoor furniture.
We’d recommend eating at their restaurant, Morini, just to appreciate the design of marbling and mosaics, but the Italian cuisine is outstanding, too. Afterwards, enjoy a drink out on the terrace at The Living Room, the hotel’s bar and co-working space, which offers sweeping views of Riyadh.
Find out more about Jareed Hotel or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
6. Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah | Diriyah
Just a short drive from Riyadh, Bab Samhan is giving desert camp vibes with its flickering outdoor fires, sandstone buildings, palm-lined walkways, and earth-toned awnings. The hotel celebrates Najdi culture, reflected in the handcrafted details inside its 134 rooms and suites. Each features local designs and hand-dyed linens, with beautiful, bold, patterned furnishings and panelling. We suggest the Mesbah Grand Deluxe Suite, complete with a traditional living area, marble bathroom and king-sized bed.
Their Nafel Alwadi Spa has scrubs and wraps galore, along with a gym and indoor pool, and to sate your appetite after all that relaxing, there’s also an impressive array of eateries. Medheef is their all-day, market-style option, but for something unique, Taleed is led by Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina, and serves locally-inspired dishes under the stars.
Learn more about Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
7. Vivienda Hotel and Villas | Diplomatic Quarter
In a neighbourhood called the Diplomatic Quarter, you can expect stays to be top-notch. At Vivienda Hotel, the villas take centre stage, with each having different but equally luxe features. They range in size from two bedrooms upwards, and all feature elegant nods to Arabian design and architecture – the three-bedroom Gradioso Villa is full of pretty geometric patterns, and comes with a private terrace, pool and jacuzzi. You’ll also find fully equipped kitchens and an optional butler service.
Naturally, the property also has multiple main pools, as well as a gym, spa, and a restaurant serving international cuisine. And if you’re keen to leave this tranquil spot, they can even arrange car rental to help you get out and explore.
Read more about Vivienda Hotel & Villas or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
8. The St. Regis Riyadh | Al Hada
Riyadh’s opulent St. Regis hotel is the place to stay if you want real exclusivity, thanks to its location within VIA Riyadh, a luxury mall area of designer shops and restaurants. Its imposing sandstone structure and interiors feature sleek glass and earth tones, and the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows to let the light in. Rooms are spacious, but suites (like the VIA Riyadh Suite) add on city views, living-dining spaces and an extra-large ensuite.
There’s a sparkling main pool where we spent the majority of our time, along with a fitness centre and a spa, complete with sauna, herbal steam room, snow shower and ice fountains. Jackie Restaurant blends American and Mediterranean cuisine, but there’s also the elegant St. Regis Bar for a tipple, and Stella Sky Lounge for shisha, drinks, entertainment and endless views.
Find out more about The St. Regis Riyadh or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
9. Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel | Al Mathar
Spain meets Saudi Arabia at Al Mashreq, a cosy but luxurious boutique property in Riyadh’s downtown. Andalucia inspires the design here, with the grounds filled with palm trees and water features, while interiors are bursting with colourful mosaics, carved doorways and rich colours. The 71 rooms range from deluxe to named suites; Junior Suites are a great in-between choice, with Arabian decor and artefacts, a spacious bedroom, and a separate living area.
The hotel also has an impressive spa, including a glowing blue indoor swimming pool, hammam, sauna and steam room, which will have you relaxed and ready to sample some local cuisine at either of their two restaurants. Jana serves an all-day international buffet, but Al Mashrabiya is our choice – its alfresco setting surrounded by fountains is magical, as is the menu of Mediterranean dishes.
Learn more about Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel or Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
10. Braira Qurtubah | Qurtuba
Braira Qurtubah is sleek, sophisticated and ideal for business travellers. It’s heavy on glass, marble and contemporary design, and the rooms are modern, designed in white and grey tones, with equipped kitchenettes, all the modcons you could need and living rooms in the suites.
There isn’t much in the way of activities, but this is Riyadh, so it’s a given that you’ll find an indoor pool, along with a steam room, hammam, sauna and a spa. Plus, onsite Restaurant #1 serves meals throughout the day, and there is a wealth of eateries on the doorstep around the neighbourhood.
Discover more about Braira Qurtubah or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
11. The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh | Al Hada
There’s only one way to describe The Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, and that’s OTT. Everything here is vast and bedazzled with glass, mosaics and beautiful tiling. Despite being in the city centre, the grounds are home to 600-year-old olive trees and gardens, while the property itself has a huge indoor pool decorated in intricate blue patterns. Rooms are simple but plush, with thick carpets and fancy headboards. The Executive Suite is a strong choice, with its balcony-style windows and separate living room.
Elsewhere in the hotel is the Ritz-Carlton Spa, which has a long list of locally-inspired treatments, or if sightseeing is on your list, the friendly concierge can arrange visits to most local attractions. And dining here spans the globe, from Middle Eastern fare at Al Orjouan to Italian at Azzurro and light bites and smoothies at the onsite bowling alley, Strike.
Read more about The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia
12. Mövenpick Hotel and Residences Riyadh | Aghadir
We love a good Mövenpick Hotel, as you know you’re getting modernity, comfort, and convenience at all of their properties. Riyadh’s offering, in the city’s financial district, is no different. The hotel’s two buildings dominate the skyline and hide its stunning gardens, outdoor pool and alfresco bar in between them.
Inside the rooms and suites, you’ll find floor-to-ceiling windows to take in jaw-dropping views, and some rooms are in the ‘Executive’ category, which gives you access to a top-floor lounge with complimentary breakfast and canapes.
There’s also not one, but five dining choices – the best of the bunch are Fez, serving traditional Moroccan small plates, La Citta with its premium cuts of imported steak and Otium, which offers a fun evening of barbecue food, cocktails and outdoor entertainment.
Learn more about Mövenpick Hotel and Residences Riyadh or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
13. Voco – Riyadh by IHG | Al Malaz
This handily located property is close to everything in Riyadh, whether you’re visiting for shopping at Riyadh Park Mall, seeing the sights or for work. The entire hotel is ultra modern, with enclaves of Saudi Arabian design – rooms are a good example, designed in a minimalist, business style with comfy beds, wingback chairs and separate living rooms in the suites, which also have their own kitchen and dining rooms.
It’s not all business, though, as the hotel has multiple pools, a spa and a small racquet court. But it’s the restaurants that really shine here, with five options spanning Lebanese at Naya, snacks at Cabana pool bar and Indian at Anardana, which is decked out with pretty mosaics and flickering lamps.
Read more about Voco Riyadh or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
14. Fairmont Riyadh | Qurtuba
This centrally located Fairmont is impressive from all angles. The grand building has an Atlantis-esque design, while inside is twinkling lighting, spiral staircases, marble, glass and contemporary twists on everything, from floating staircases to mirrored ceilings. Rooms and suites are far more scaled back, with soft grey flooring and plush beds, so if you prefer a fancy room, make sure to choose a suite, with its added living rooms and (very) generously sized en-suites.
Fairmont spas have never failed us, and at this one, you can look forward to a tranquil indoor pool, yoga classes, saunas and an exhaustive treatment menu. And no expense was spared on their restaurants either, which include the Gatsby-themed House of Grill by Michelin-starred Chef Nicolas Isnard, and authentic southern Italian cooking at Che Figata.
Discover more about Fairmont Riyadh or Book through Booking.com Book through Expedia Book through Agoda
15. W Riyadh – KAFD (opening in 2026) | King Abdullah Financial District
W Riyadh is already pipped as one of Riyadh’s hottest new openings of 2026, and we can’t wait to peek inside. The property is taking bookings from May, and promises lavish design with a heavy dose of Arabian design, such as traditional patterns, furnishings and artwork.
There are 210 rooms and suites here, all designed in a unique, contemporary style set to feature mixed materials like marble, wood and velvet, along with spacious glass-walled bathrooms and living areas.
We also know that there will be an outdoor pool and spa, along with four drinking and dining spots. We’re most excited about Sira, the food and cocktail lounge, and Beni, a chic cafe serving coffee and ice cream for those with a sweet tooth.
Check out W Riyadh-KAFD
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