Hotel review: Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya
A stalwart stay in the capital with lots to look forward to…
Before Riyadh became the leisure and business hub it’s known as today, with a burgeoning number of luxury stays and an ever-growing list of brands entering the market – Hyatt debuted its Hyatt Regency brand in the Saudi capital in 2017. It was Hyatt’s first opening in Riyadh, and what it opened, it set a new benchmark for upscale stays in the city, lacing local charm into its design, its service and its offering, all while retaining the all-welcoming, all-encompassing Hyatt Regency brand DNA.
Fast forward seven years, we check-in to check out how this hotel is staying at the top of its game.
Location
In the bustling financial hub of Olaya, Hyatt Regency is well-appointed for visitors. Reachable via a 40-minute taxi from the airport (or a trip on the newly opened Riyadh Metro), it’s well-appointed for reaching Al Faisaliah Mall and Tower, as well as KAFD. So whether you’re here for business or travel, it’s a great base.
Look and feel
The soaring 28-storey building is a striking skyscraper that sticks out among its sea of low-lying counterparts. But while it may appear looming from the outside, inside the vibe is warm and welcoming. Fresh flowers in the lobby – in Saudi Arabia’s signature purple shade – are a lovely fragrant touch, and the spacious lobby is dotted with relaxing seating areas, cleverly divided to offer privacy and comfort for those conducting business here. The Arabian grandeur is evident across mirrored tiles, delicately carved woods, and a sparkling chandelier in the lobby that mirrors the lapping waves of the sea.
Rooms
A collection of 261 spacious guestrooms are spread across 28 floors. The sumptuous king suite we check-in to opens into a warm lounge, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stretching views of Olaya and beyond from the 22nd floor. A grand writing desk is fitted with an array of charging points, and feels like the kind of spot to get comfy in the leather chair, and get creative. The lounge also houses a mini bar, a coffee machine, and a seating area that would comfortably fit four should you have guests come by. The abstract artworks in calm hues of purple and orange add some welcome colour into the otherwise neutral space, and fluffy carpets and textured curtains further add to the homely feel. In the bedroom, a king size bed is dressed in crisp cotton sheets, and you can control the lights, blinds, and temperature with the touch of a button from your bedside. There’s a walk-in wardrobe, plus a large bathroom where a large free-standing tub is the invitation to cancel plans and luxuriate in a leisurely bath.
Facilities
Where many of its counterparts have a secondary focus on wellness, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya has ample wellness facilities on the hotel’s second floor. There’s separate areas for men and women, an indoor swimming pool where you can chill out or get your lengths in, and a fitness centre with all the Techno Gym equipment you’ll need to stay active. The spa facilities include dimly lit treatment rooms where therapists offer facials and massages, plus a steam room, sauna and a bubbling jacuzzi with a twinkling ceiling that’s instantly relaxing.
Food and drink
Days start at 56th Avenue Diner, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya’s toned-down tribute to the all-American diner. But you won’t find tacky memorabilia here. Instead, the interiors are smart and sophisticated, the red leather booths the most overt tribute to the USA. Breakfast is a fantastic spread of exotic fruits, pastries baked in-house, and continental cold cuts, alongside a regularly topped up hot buffet. Guests order eggs a la carte, and the team are quick to take hot drink orders.
Elsewhere, a meal at Azure (pictured above) shouldn’t be missed, and executive chef Ivan Chieregatti and head chef Ramon Cantos present a tapestry of flavourful dishes designed to share that highlight the best of Spain’s vibrant foodie regions. With a focus on Andalusia, Murcia and the Mediterranean coast, book a table by the window to admire the twinkling city by night, and order dishes like a creamy gazpacho and seafood paella.
Room rates
Entry level rooms start from SAR803.
Verdict
A consistently great address that provides a great base for stays in the heart of the city.
Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, Olaya Street, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 11433. Tel: (966) 11 288 1234. hyatt.com