The hotel is located in very old city area where the traffic is very bad, however I can recommend it for short business trip. Also you should bargain for the best rate and better if you check the online booking website to know ahead what is the offered rate .........
I stayed here for a couple of weeks on my first trip to Riyadh. I expect to be going back with others for several months and would highly recommend this hotel. The location is close to the Kingdom Centre and is ideal for visiting the client for meetings.
I had arranged to be picked up by the hotel from the airport. As it took so long to get through immigration (over 2 hours), I was not surprised to find no car. I phoned hotel who said he was close by and sure enough he was there within 10 minutes.
I had requested a room towards the rear of the hotel (less traffic noise from Olaya St). The room was large and the free wifi strength was reasonable. When I was working I used the 4g dongle from Mobily (shop across the road) which gives excellent strength for circa £20 a month.
The buffet spread for both breakfast and dinner is excellent and main dishes changing daily. At both dinner and breakfast, will-power is required in abundance to not be tempted by the cakes! Breakfast was included in the room rate. Dinner was circa £20. There is a large food court in the Kingdom centre serving several different style meals, which I used for lunch, but is also available in the evening.
The hotel has a large gym area and an indoor swimming pool, essential at the end of a hot day.
I met quite a few people at the hotel who were long stayers (several months) which is a recommendation within itself.
All the staff were very friendly and helpful. I had a couple of days when I was unable to use my left hand. They would get me my choices from the buffet and bring them to the table. The laundry service was excellent.
The only criticism would be that there was no magnified mirror in the bathroom for shaving. They also provide an international plug adaptor in the room which seems to cater for all types.
Checked in late night and was happy to be offered a suite as upgrade. The room was spacious and clean but will not reach the 4 star category. The staff was polite and happy to assist. The major let down was the breakfast. Just plain boiled eggs and cereals and a live omlate station.
Hi.. the hotel is well placed in the heart of the city. Opposite to the landmark 'Kingdom Tower'. The staff attitude is good. Stayed 3 nights and had a business meeting held in the same hotel. The conference amenities are good enough. Bathroom is clean and neat. The carpet in room was disappointing. I will recommend it for a one day business trip only.
On the positive side: Staff are helpful and attentive, GYM facility is great and it is in a good location (5min walk from Kingdom tower)
On the negative side: Only two floors non-smoking, the rooms are quite run down & not very pleasant, food is below average (nuggets for breakfast!)
Overall i would give it poor-average, however, it is convenient if you have close by meetings and want to avoid the Riyadh traffic
