Staycation review: Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh At Kingdom Centre
One of the Kingdom’s finest five-star addresses continues to lead the way for luxury stays in the capital…
The location
Housed within one of Riyadh’s most iconic skyscrapers, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh has its lobby, restaurants and leisure offering set across the ground and first floors. Guest rooms occupy levels 30 to 50 of the 99-storey tower, each benefitting from brilliant views that stretch out across the capital. A handy location for work and play, the hotel is centrally situated in the heart of Riyadh, with restaurants, galleries and museums all within easy reach. Those looking to get in some retail therapy benefit from direct access to Kingdom Centre mall, and a little further afield, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif in Diriyah is a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
The look and feel
There’s a real feeling of old-meets-new at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. Saudi heritage and craftsmanship are celebrated through ornate marble and elegant chandeliers, fused with contemporary, state-of-the-art luxuries and muted hues in guest suites, as the hotel undergoes a transformation.
The rooms
Among the first elements to be given a modern makeover are the guest rooms and suites, which are now finished in warm hues of dove grey, ivory and vanilla. Super-sized Smart TV’s, a Dyson hairdryer, an iPad for round-the-clock butler service and Bose sound systems are high-tech features that cater to those travelling for both work and play, while the impressive pillow menu welcomes guests to sink into the perfect night’s sleep after a day of business or leisure. In a spacious Executive Suite, there’s a separate lounge with sweeping 180-degree views of Riyadh, a dining area and facilities for making fruity mocktails alongside the traditional morning brews, plus a neat walk-in wardrobe.
The facilities
The wellness spaces are generously sized, with a huge gym packed full of equipment, and a dedicated ladies-only gym room off the main space for women who prefer to work out in a more private setting. The spa – complete with steam, sauna and jacuzzi – is the city’s first men-only spa, although women can arrange treatments in the comforts of their room should they wish.
Looking to get in some retail therapy? The hotel’s handy direct access to Kingdom Centre Mall means fashion, jewellery, beauty, stationary and accessories stores are just a short stroll away. And those visiting Riyadh for the first time shouldn’t miss a visit to the Sky Bridge observation deck, found on the 99th floor of the Kingdom Tower. From this lofty perch, suspended 300 meters above the city, visitors can enjoy spectacular views across the city. Tickets are SAR 63.
The food
While restaurants Rosso and The Grill have shut their doors to make way for a duo of exciting international concepts (stay tuned for more), on-site restaurant Elements provides an international array of dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The breakfast buffet is particularly impressive, with tiers of just-baked pastries, juicy fresh fruits, and packed platters of cold cuts and cheese. Then there’s the live cooking stations, where guests can order eggs any style, or treat themselves to stacks of waffles and pancakes. It’s all washed down with bottled detox juices, hot drinks and infused waters you can help yourself to.
At the Lobby Lounge, there’s a welcoming, elegant ambience and to the soft sounds of the piano, guests can relax in jewel-hued velvet chairs, while sipping on an array of fresh juices and coffees. The signature afternoon tea experience is a must-try, with tiered towers of traditional or Arabic teatime treats paired with loose leaf teas from across the globe. The all-day menu is ideal for grabbing a light bite, although those looking for a heartier a la carte meal can also enjoy dishes from The Grill in the Lobby Lounge for dinner.
The room rates
A night in a superior room starts from SAR 3,450, while the Four Seasons Executive Suite is priced from SAR 4,460 both including taxes.
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, Center Point, Al Olaya. Tel: 00966 11 211 5000, fourseasons.com/riyadh
Images: Provided