St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of The St. Regis Riyadh. The newest jewel in an exquisite global portfolio brings the brand’s celebrated traditions and signature hallmarks born at New York’s finest address of Fifth Avenue and 55th Street to the country’s luminaries. The hotel marks Marriott International’s 500th luxury property globally.
“The opening of The St. Regis Riyadh ushers in a new benchmark of luxury in Saudi Arabia offering guests a modern viewpoint on bespoke service, sophisticated dining and avant-garde design set within a new, iconic landmark in the capital,” said Jenni Benzaquen, SVP and Global Brand Leader, The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis. “We are thrilled to welcome guests and debut the brand’s legacy, modern design and architecture to this dynamic and evolving destination.”
The St. Regis Riyadh is the only hotel in the heart of the recently launched premier destination, Via Riyadh, home to designer boutiques, Michelin-star restaurants and a luxury cinema. Situated at the entrance of the Diplomatic Quarter, the hotel is close to embassies and the central business district. The area is lined with lush trails, elegant landscapes, swaying palm trees and plants from the surrounding valleys and desert.
Cast from ancient Tuwaiq mountain stone found in the south of the country, the hotel embodies Salmani architecture, exuding modernity while celebrating local design. Guests are greeted in the lobby by a curved sculptural grand staircase and a crystal chandelier depicting pages of a history book, an interpretation of the country’s storied past and the new being written. Designed by Kristina Zanic, the hotel showcases artwork that explores the combination of subtle tradition and modernity with contemporary, minimalist works adorning the walls and guestrooms.
The St. Regis brand’s founding family, the Astors, were known for seeking out exquisite locations around the globe for their collection of homes, and The St. Regis Riyadh reflects their love for residential properties. The first boutique style luxury hotel in the capital features 83 luxurious guestrooms including 21 exquisite suites and an expansive two-bedroom Royal Suite with separate living and dining areas, a pantry and library. Light and spacious, the guestrooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows, large open bathrooms, and walk-in wardrobes. Each is thoughtfully designed with metallic hues of gold and copper married with beige and blues, evoking the modern sophistication of the St. Regis style while imbued with locally inspired design touches. The legendary St. Regis Butler Service, a personalised hallmark of the brand for more than a century, ensures that each guest’s individual preferences are anticipated at every turn.
Exceptional culinary journeys are presented through the hotel’s distinct venues. The Drawing Room is an elegant lounge serving coffee and artisan pastries throughout the day and Afternoon Tea, a signature tradition of St. Regis. Inspired by Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ love of the Mediterranean, Jackiecelebrates American Greek cuisine from timeless classics to the chef’s speciality recipes including a Goats Cheese and Tomato Red Snapper Jelly and Maine Lobster Bisque. Spread over two floors, Jackie is a place for family gatherings sharing dishes laid over a large oak table, or more intimate moments in its elegant carved ceiling alcoves.
On the rooftop, Stella Sky is a lively space that transitions from day to night. Situated around the outdoor pool with views across the city, by day guests can laze on plush sunbeds sipping mocktails and by night take a seat indoors to enjoy live entertainment, sheesha and a live station serving sushi and sashimi infused with Saudi spices. A stargazing theme directs the interiors, with embossed astrological motifs and flowing fabric on the ceiling representing the movement of galaxies. Richly hued oriental rugs are strewn over a terrazzo floor inlaid with marble.
The hotel’s signature St. Regis Bar features a striking mural that captures Arabesque motifs with elaborate woven wools, embroidery, and beading. The St. Regis Bar offers a ‘Regal Mary’ mocktail, a local take on the brand’s signature Bloody Mary infused with dates, turmeric and sumac.
The expansive The St. Regis Spa is an oasis of calm featuring domed ceilings reminiscent of Italian architectural structures, while green marble, neutral tones, soft textures and warm lighting glide through the space. The spa is 1240 square metres and has a private entrance, four treatment rooms, a couple’s suite, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains and Jacuzzis. The spa offers signature treatments, including a 24kt Gold and Platinum treatment, all performed with AMRA products. Guests can enjoy refreshments at the Celebration Bar before indulging in a rejuvenating treatment then retreat to one of the relaxation lounges complete with a cosy fireplace. The hotel also features a rooftop pool with views over Via Riyadh and a fully equipped gym.
The ballroom awaits celebration as a timeless and multi-functional event space that captivates the very best weddings and social events. Catering to 650 guests and with its own private access, banquet area and an elegant bridal suite, the ballroom is a flexible space that offers originality for social and corporate gatherings alike.
Marina Krasnobrizhaya, General Manager for The St. Regis Riyadh said: “The St. Regis Riyadh offers a distinct point of view on luxury and brings the brand’s storied heritage to Via Riyadh. The destination is quickly becoming popular with residents and global travellers alike and is in line with the country’s Vision 2030. We look forward to offering guests exceptional experiences that reflect both the history of the destination and the exquisite experiences synonymous with the iconic St. Regis brand.”
