Hotel review: Hilton Riyadh Olaya
The perfect city getaway…
Need a place to stay in Riyadh? Despite the fabulous new openings we’ve seen in the capital over the past year, every now and then, there arrives a new hotel that feels like it’s been around forever.
Hilton Riyadh Olaya is such a hotel. A modern landmark on King Fahd Road, where by day, the major road is busy and too full of vehicles, and by night, the bright lights of the skyscrapers illuminate a dazzling downtown, the full-service hotel promises a comfortable stay in one of Riyadh’s most vibrant districts.
Read on for our review of the property.
Location
Located in Riyadh’s buzzy district on King Fahd Road, Hilton Riyadh Olaya is surrounded by some of the city’s best attractions. It’s a great neighbourhood to venture out and explore on foot, especially at this time of year. From here, the iconic Kingdom Tower – visible from the hotel – is within walking distance. That’s where you shop, dine, or even catch a movie at the cinema, all under one roof. The hotel’s central location also means you’re a mere stroll from a selection of restaurants and cafés, convenience stores, and shopping centres for exploring further afield – the perfect base to explore Riyadh.
Rooms
The 239 comfortable, sanctuary-like rooms, which include one- and two-bedroom suites and residential apartments, have been finished with neutral colour palettes and dark brown furnishings and are equipped with modern conveniences, such as an HDTV, WiFi, and a coffeemaker. They serve up breathtaking panoramas (albeit of buildings and the bustling King Fahd road – a trade-off for staying right in the centre of the action) and are generously sized for such an enviable Riyadh locale. Bathrooms are kitted out with walk-in power showers, bathtubs, and toiletries from Crabtree & Evelyn. We also appreciate the worktable, perfect for business guests who need to make their space a remote working office. Worth mentioning that if you splash out on the fancier end of the spectrum, you’ll get access to the Executive Club Lounge, which is basically a big chilled-out-but-still-luxurious area where they serve complimentary refreshments all day, overlooking panoramic city views.
Look and feel
Step through the glass entrance into a large, high-ceiling lobby, and you’ll find that the Hilton Riyadh Olaya feels undeniably modern, thanks to the brand’s design-forward ethos. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto the passing traffic and let in light across the floors. Expect a wave of comfort and calm as the aforementioned nuanced palette extends into the hotel’s communal spaces, with fixtures and fittings in warm, earthy tones and dark wood. Plenty of potted ferns, ceramic details, elegant chandeliers, and artwork soften the look. There are also subtle nods to the publishing world, evoking elements reminiscent of quills, pens, texts, and calligraphy.
Facilities
You might be right in the heart of Riyadh’s busiest district, but that doesn’t mean you can’t escape the bustle of city life at Hilton Riyadh Olaya. Hilton’s globally renowned spa concept, eforea Spa & Health Club, is a fantastic feature. Its indoor infinity pool has floor-to-ceiling windows, creating another notably light-filled space lined with a range of loungers and comfy chairs.
When not taking a dip in the pool, indulge in a comprehensive suite of treatments such as baths, massages, body scrubs, and wraps, in addition to perfectly pampering beauty facials. The spa also boasts luxurious amenities, including a steam room, sauna, and an experience shower. If you’re a fitness buff, the gym is more than well-equipped for any workout, so you can leave that resistance band at home. There’s also a 24-hour business centre on the ground floor.
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Food
Culinary-wise, the hotel is home to two dining venues. The chic Regale Bistro & Bar, nestled right by the lobby, serves everything from morning coffee to sandwiches, pastries and cakes and boasts a convenient atmosphere for business meetings. In the evenings, the atmosphere becomes more sophisticated yet relaxed, deeming it a great place to unwind, enhanced by soothing jazz melodies. A highlight of the evening is the ‘Sunset Ceremony,’ where bartenders craft zero-percent cocktails tableside, adding a refreshing touch to the day’s end.
We head to Parea Greek Brasserie for dinner – an excellent choice for those searching for genuine Mediterranean flavours. Here, premium steaks and seafood claim the spotlight, with each quality cut and fresh catch masterfully kissed by an open-flame charcoal grill for delicious smokiness and plenty of flavour.
Parea is also the breakfast spot for hotel guests, offering a variety of options ranging from local and international fare in a buffet concept. The spread might feel a touch more condensed compared to other hotel buffets – but rather than going for quantity for quantity’s sake, quality is what the kitchen team gives emphasis to. Make no mistake, though. It’s nevertheless ample in size and variety that you’re bound to find your favourites at every station.
Room rates
A one-night stay in a king guest room starts from SAR855.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a sanctuary that isn’t stuffy, is in the midst of the bustling city, and is value for money, Hilton Riyadh Olaya is the hotel to book for your next trip. This is a comfortable spot that’s perfect for a central Riyadh business trip with a side of pleasure.
Hilton Riyadh Olaya, 8508 King Fahd Branch Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12333. Tel: +966 11 272 8800. @hiltonolayaruh
Images: Supplied