Riyadh’s blend of medieval and millennial makes for a beguiling cultural union — one where Arabia’s first roots can be traced, and where its bold future can be envisioned. Just a short drive from the capital, Diriyah is set to become Saudi Arabia’s foremost historic cultural destination. The new hub will see 11km2 of the historic town of Diriyah transformed into a global tourism destination with 38 new hotels. So it’s no surprise that Riyadh’s pipeline is jam-packed.
According to pipeline data collected by Tophotelprojects, 42 projects totalling 8,621 rooms are currently in the works for Riyadh. Of the new arrivals, 23 will join the five-star segments, while 18 will occupy the four-star category.
The database indicates that no fewer than 18 projects are scheduled to open this year, nine are slated for 2023, with three more on track for 2024. There are also eight hotels expected to open in 2025, with a further two on the cards for 2026.
Featured below are just a few of the key properties in the pipeline for Riyadh. If you would like further information – including contact details for the developers, operators, designers and procurement teams behind each project – please visit www.tophotelprojects.com
St Regis Riyadh
Located at the entrance of the Diplomatic Quarter, close to the city's embassies and central business district, St Regis Riyadh will part of 'Via Riyadh', a luxury mixed-use development with retail and entertainment outlets. The hotel will comprise 83 guestrooms including 23 suites, along with two signature restaurants, an outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening Date: Q4 2022 • Developer: Sela Sport Company • Operator: Marriott International
Waldorf Astoria – The Avenues
The Avenues – Riyadh is one of the largest mixed-use developments in Saudi Arabia. Upon Completion in 2023, the development will include four Hilton-operated hotels: a 350-room Waldorf Astoria, a 400-room Conrad, a 500-room Hilton Garden Inn and a 150-room Canopy by Hilton – the first of Hilton’s lifestyle Canopy brand in the Middle East.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening Date: Q1 2023 • Developer: Shomoul Holding Company • Operator: Hilton Worldwide • Architecture: Mahan Rykiel Associates
Nobu Riyadh
The first Nobu in Saudi Arabia is nearing completion ahead of its opening later this year. The hotel will be distinguished by a contemporary design that blends Nobu’s cutting-edge Japanese style with subtle references to the landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula. In addition to the property's 90 guestrooms and 44 suites, Rockwell Group is designing all of the hotel’s public spaces, including a VIP lounge with sweeping views of the city from the sixteenth floor and the hotel’s in-house, 770m2 Nobu restaurant.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening Date: Q3 2022 • Developer: Dhaliliyah Group • Owner: Najmatik Co for Development & Investment • Architecture: Dhaliliyah Group • Interior Design: Rockwell Group
Rosewood Riyadh
Located within Diriyah Gate, Rosewood Riyadh will mark the brand’s second property in Saudi Arabia, joining Rosewood Jeddah, and fourth in the region. The hotel itself will occupy a standalone building boasting 250 ultra-luxury accommodations, including 202 guestrooms and suites and 48 Wadi Suites ranging from one to three bedrooms. The property will further feature four restaurants and bars; and Asaya, Rosewood’s integrative well-being concept. Additional recreation will span a state-of-the-art fitness centre and expansive meetings and events spaces including a ballroom.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening Date: 2025 • Owner: Diriyah Gate Development Authority • Operator: Rosewood Hotel Group
Renaissance Riyadh
Renaissance Riyadh Hotel is expected to feature 266 thoughtfully designed suites, three food and beverage outlets and leisure facilities such as a spa, pool and fitness centre. The hotel is slated to introduce the brand’s unique positioning which connects travellers to the spirit of its local neighbourhood through unexpected design, entertaining evening rituals and engaging Navigators, the brand’s neighbourhood ambassadors.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT: Opening Date: 2026 • Developer: Al Saedan Group • Operator: Marriott International
