Immerse yourself in Saudi Arabian hospitality and discover a cultured blend of local heritage and contemporary design at Fairmont Riyadh. FACT checks in…
Situated a breezy 15-minute drive from King Khalid International Airport, Fairmont Riyadh successfully bridges convenience for the discerning business traveller with lavish leisure for those looking to explore the capital. Conveniently located in Riyadh's new Business Gate development, the sprawling property, topped with an enviable dome, rises out of the surrounding sands like a mirage. Home to 298 guest rooms and 40 suites, the Fairmont Gold 'hotel-within-a-hotel' option, several desirable dining destinations, and a spa, Fairmont Riyadh is easily one of the most desirable accommodation options in the Kingdom.
First impressions are vital and guests are met with a lavish lobby where floral blooms abound. Sleek marble lines the floors and reception desks, while suspended lanterns hover above a spiral staircase, filling the space with an unmistakable Arabian charm.
Suite Living
Fairmont Riyadh's generously appointed rooms offer city chic and plenty of comfort. We're led past intricate mashrabiya, Arabic artworks and striped carpet to a corner suite on the fourth floor. Once inside, we discover a sanctuary far removed from the hustle and bustle of Riyadh's notorious traffic.
Contemporary elegance is reflected throughout the décor of the accommodation at Fairmont Riyadh. However, it's the generous size (570 sqft, to be precise) and the innovative layout of our Junior Suite that gets our attention. Much like the other rooms, it embraces an organic theme, boasting a range of rich textures, employing the use of marble, dark wood panelling and soft furnishings to blend modern comfort with traditional Saudi Arabian design touches. Expect in-room business facilities and high-speed internet service.
Junior Suites are elegantly appointed with a separate living space, including sofas and a coffee table. Your welcome amenities will have you sprawled on the sofa with chocolates in hand and a cup of tea or coffee to sip on. There is a large flat-screen television, a work desk, a wardrobe space that causes serious envy – we wouldn't mind having this arrangement in our own home - and a luxurious bathroom that is designed to complement the open-plan living with its separate brass rainfall shower and deep tub for soaking. However, as they say – the small things make a difference, and we found luxury bathroom amenities by Le Labo to be a nice touch.
Food First
Luckily, for those staying at Fairmont Riyadh, you won't need to leave when it comes to hunger pangs. Savouring quality world foods is made possible through their exceptional dining portfolio. Try seasonal flavours at The 365, the international dining destination with nine multinational cuisines across its live cooking stations or treat yourself to an elegant catch-up at The Plaza, where you can choose from tea blends, coffees and cakes. Immerse yourself in an authentic Italian experience at Pesto, which draws inspiration from Southern Italy's side street restaurants through a pasta and pizza menu.
House of Grill is the newest addition to the hotel's portfolio of restaurants. The menu has been designed by Chef Nicolas Isnard of the MICHELIN-starred restaurant's La Prieure and Le Vieux Logis. It features fresh meat and prime cuts. Live cooking is also available – so, expect to see flames.
Leisure Time
Fairmont Riyadh is a hotel where boredom is not a word. The onsite fitness centre is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of Riyadh residents and in-house guests. With a wide array of sports equipment and wellness treatments under one roof, this is a place to relax and retreat, even if you're not a gym buff. The indoor pool is as Instagrammable as it is incandescent, offering a spot for laps or luxuriating.
Speaking of pampering, the Fairmont Spa offers several treatment rooms for massages, facials, hammams, and nourishment for the mind, body, and soul. We can't help but indulge in a 60-minute sports massage that revitalises us and prepares us to take on Riyadh's city streets.
The service at Fairmont Riyadh is next to none. The staff across every department are friendly, attentive and professional. There is no intrusion, only helpfulness – and that goes a long way on a staycation or business trip. For the perfect mix of business, leisure and convenience, this is the hotel to choose for your next Saudi getaway.
GO: Visit www.fairmont.com for reservations and more information.
