Saudi Arabia’s hotel landscape has transformed beyond recognition in just a few years. Once a market dominated by pilgrim-oriented accommodation in Mecca and Medina and a handful of business hotels in Riyadh, the Kingdom now boasts one of the most ambitious hospitality expansion programmes on Earth. Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is on track to deliver 362,000 new hotel rooms by the end of the decade, with ultra-luxury brands like Aman, Rosewood, Six Senses, and Four Seasons racing to plant flags across destinations that barely existed on the tourism map five years ago.

Whether you are visiting for business, pilgrimage, a beach holiday on the Red Sea coast, or a heritage expedition through AlUla’s sandstone canyons, this guide covers everything you need to know about finding the right hotel in Saudi Arabia — from five-star palaces to budget-friendly serviced apartments.

For broader trip planning, see our Saudi Arabia travel hub, including our guides to trip costs and visa requirements.

The Saudi Hotel Boom: What Visitors Need to Know

Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector is undergoing what industry analysts describe as the largest hotel construction programme in the world. The numbers are staggering: as of early 2026, the Kingdom has approximately 171,650 operational hotel keys, with a further 94,500 rooms in the active construction pipeline. The broader target — 362,000 new rooms by 2030 — is being driven by giga-projects like The Red Sea, AMAALA, NEOM, and Diriyah Gate, alongside aggressive expansion by international chains in established cities.

For travellers, this means two things. First, the quality and variety of accommodation has improved dramatically. Where once the choice in a city like Riyadh was between a handful of five-star business hotels and unremarkable three-star options, visitors now find boutique hotels, design-led serviced apartments, desert eco-resorts, and overwater villas on private islands. Second, competition is pushing standards up while keeping prices relatively competitive compared to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, particularly in the mid-range segment.

Around 78 percent of the new hotel pipeline falls within the luxury, upscale, and upper-upscale segments. The Kingdom is making a deliberate play for high-spending leisure tourists, not just pilgrims and business travellers. The hotel market is forecast to grow from $51.5 billion in 2025 to over $111 billion by 2034.

Hotel Prices in Saudi Arabia: What to Expect

Saudi Arabia offers surprisingly good value compared to neighbouring Gulf states. A comfortable mid-range hotel in Riyadh or Jeddah costs roughly what you would pay in a mid-tier European city, while luxury properties remain significantly cheaper than equivalent hotels in Dubai.

Important pricing note: These are standard-season rates. During Hajj (dates shift annually with the Islamic calendar), hotel prices in Mecca and Medina spike by 5-10 times their normal rates. Ramadan sees increases of 3-5 times, particularly during the final ten nights. In Riyadh, the annual Riyadh Season entertainment festival (typically October through March) also pushes rates up, though less dramatically. Book well in advance during these periods or pay a significant premium.

Best Hotels in Riyadh

Riyadh is Saudi Arabia’s capital and commercial powerhouse, home to the largest concentration of luxury hotels in the Kingdom. The city’s hotel scene is anchored along King Fahd Road and the Diplomatic Quarter, with newer developments in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and the forthcoming Diriyah Gate heritage district.

Luxury and Ultra-Luxury

Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre — Occupying the upper floors of Riyadh’s most iconic skyscraper, the Four Seasons remains the gold standard for business and leisure travellers alike. The hotel earned a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating in 2026. Rooms from approximately $350 per night.

The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh — Spread across 52 acres of landscaped gardens, this palatial property is arguably the most opulent hotel in the Kingdom. It also holds a Forbes Five-Star rating. The Ritz-Carlton is famous for its sheer scale: multiple swimming pools, over a dozen dining venues, and a spa complex that rivals standalone wellness resorts. Rooms from approximately $300 per night.

Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah — Housed within the landmark Al Faisaliah Tower, the Mandarin Oriental combines the brand’s signature Asian-influenced service with Saudi heritage design. The Globe restaurant, perched in the tower’s golden sphere, offers panoramic city views and remains one of Riyadh’s most sought-after dining reservations. Rooms from approximately $280 per night.

The St. Regis Riyadh — Known for its signature butler service and the grand lobby beneath an impressive spiral staircase, the St. Regis delivers a contemporary take on the Kingdom’s rich heritage. An excellent choice for diplomatic and corporate travellers. Rooms from approximately $250 per night.

Upper Mid-Range

Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya — Well-located on Olaya Street with reliable Hyatt standards, modern rooms, and a rooftop pool. A sensible choice for business travellers who want comfort without the five-star price tag. Rooms from approximately $120 per night.

Radisson Blu Hotel Riyadh — Consistent international brand with good meeting facilities and proximity to the Diplomatic Quarter. Rooms from approximately $100 per night.

Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter — Solid business hotel in a convenient location with reliable amenities. Rooms from approximately $110 per night.

Budget-Friendly

Novotel Riyadh Al Anoud — Accor’s mid-range workhorse delivers clean, modern rooms at competitive rates. Rooms from approximately $65 per night.

ibis Riyadh Olaya Street — Part of the Accor economy brand, ibis properties across Riyadh offer no-frills but functional rooms from approximately $40 per night, making them the best value for budget-conscious travellers.

Coming Soon: Diriyah Gate

The Diriyah Gate development, located 15 minutes northwest of central Riyadh around the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district, will eventually host 38 luxury hotels. The first wave includes The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah (195 rooms, opening 2025-2026), Four Seasons Diriyah (150 rooms, 2026), and The Langham Diriyah (2029). The Bujairi Terrace dining precinct, with 18 restaurant brands overlooking At-Turaif, is already open and worth a visit even before the hotels arrive.

Best Hotels in Jeddah

Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s cosmopolitan Red Sea gateway — the port city through which millions of pilgrims enter the Kingdom, and increasingly a leisure destination in its own right. The best hotels cluster along the Corniche waterfront and in the northern Obhur district.

Luxury

Shangri-La Jeddah — Anchored on the new Jeddah Waterfront, Shangri-La features 203 rooms and suites plus 18 serviced apartments, all with floor-to-ceiling windows framing Red Sea views. The Shang Palace restaurant serves what many consider the best Chinese cuisine in the Kingdom. Rooms from approximately $250 per night.

Waldorf Astoria Jeddah — Qasr Al Sharq — Located on the North Corniche Road, the Waldorf Astoria is defined by its three-storey Swarovski crystal chandelier and regal Arabian interiors. The rooftop pool overlooking the Red Sea is one of Jeddah’s finest hotel amenities. Rooms from approximately $220 per night.

Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel — This Marriott Luxury Collection property blends heritage with contemporary Arabian design. Luxurious rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and impeccable interior detailing. A strong choice for travellers who want character over chain-hotel uniformity. Rooms from approximately $200 per night.

Park Hyatt Jeddah — Marina, Club and Spa — Set on a private marina, the Park Hyatt offers a resort-like experience rare in a major city. The spa is among the best in Jeddah, and the marina setting provides a genuine sense of escape. Rooms from approximately $230 per night.

Mid-Range

Jeddah Hilton Hotel — A waterfront property on the new Jeddah Waterfront with Red Sea views, solid Hilton standards, and a good pool. Rooms from approximately $130 per night.

InterContinental Jeddah — Views of King Fahad’s Fountain and the Red Sea, convenient for both business centres and historic Al-Balad. Rooms from approximately $120 per night.

Budget

Radisson Blu Hotel Jeddah — Reliable international standard at a reasonable price point. Rooms from approximately $80 per night.

Centro Shaheen Jeddah by Rotana — A smart budget option near the historic district with modern rooms and a rooftop pool. Rooms from approximately $60 per night.

Hotels in Mecca and Medina: A Pilgrim’s Guide

Accommodation in Mecca and Medina is driven almost entirely by proximity to the two holy mosques. The closer you are to the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca or the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, the higher the price — and during Hajj and Ramadan, prices become stratospheric.

Non-Muslim travellers should note: entry to the cities of Mecca and Medina is restricted to Muslims. The hotel information below is for Muslim travellers performing Hajj, Umrah, or visiting the holy cities.

Mecca: Premium Hotels Near the Haram

Makkah Clock Royal Tower, A Fairmont Hotel — Part of the Abraj Al-Bait complex adjacent to the Masjid al-Haram, this is the most prestigious address in Mecca. Direct covered access to the Haram. Standard rooms from approximately $300 per night (off-peak); $1,500-3,000+ during Hajj.

Swissotel Al Maqam Makkah — Just 50 metres from the Haram within the Clock Tower complex. Consistently rated among the top pilgrim hotels for service and cleanliness. Rooms from approximately $250 per night off-peak.

Pullman ZamZam Makkah — Also within the Clock Tower complex, roughly 50 metres from the Haram, offering Accor’s reliable standards at a slightly lower price point than the Fairmont. Rooms from approximately $200 per night off-peak.

Hilton Suites Makkah — A solid five-star option approximately 300 metres from the Haram, offering larger suite-style rooms popular with families. Rooms from approximately $180 per night off-peak.

Mecca: Budget-Friendly Options

Anjum Hotel Makkah — About 400 metres from the Haram, offering clean, functional rooms from approximately $80 per night off-peak. One of the best value options within walking distance.

Elaf Ajyad Hotel — Another budget-friendly option within walking distance of the Haram, popular with Umrah groups. Rooms from approximately $60 per night off-peak.

Medina: Hotels Near the Prophet’s Mosque

Dar Al Hijra InterContinental — Located just a two-minute walk from the Masjid an-Nabawi, this is widely considered the premier hotel in Medina. The hotel provides direct access to the mosque area and offers rooms starting from approximately SAR 399 (around $106) per night.

The Oberoi Medina — One of the newer luxury additions, bringing the Indian hospitality brand’s legendary service standards to the holy city. Rooms from approximately $200 per night.

Pullman Zamzam Madina — Accor’s pilgrim-focused property, well-located and offering reliable comfort. Rooms from approximately $150 per night.

Hajj Booking Tips

• Book at least six months in advance for Hajj season; availability near the Haram can sell out a year ahead
• Consider Hajj packages through the official Nusuk platform (hajj.nusuk.sa), which bundle accommodation, transport, and visa services
• The most affordable periods to visit are the months immediately after Hajj (Muharram, Safar) and mid-Sha’ban
• Many pilgrims book hotels in both cities — typically spending more nights in Mecca and fewer in Medina
• Hotels connected to the Haram via covered walkways command a significant premium but offer invaluable protection from summer heat (temperatures regularly exceed 45 degrees Celsius during Hajj)

Red Sea and AMAALA: Saudi Arabia’s New Resort Frontier

The most exciting development in Saudi hospitality is not happening in existing cities at all. It is unfolding along a pristine 200-kilometre stretch of the northwestern Red Sea coast, where two mega-developments — The Red Sea and AMAALA — are creating an entirely new luxury resort destination from scratch.

The Red Sea Destination

Developed by Red Sea Global (a PIF subsidiary), The Red Sea spans an archipelago of 90 islands with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and desert landscapes. The first five resorts are already operational, including two headline properties:

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort — Opened in early 2024 on a private island in the Ummahat archipelago, this resort features 90 beachfront and overwater villas designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. The design echoes the surrounding coral reefs and sand dunes. This is arguably the most exclusive hotel address in Saudi Arabia today.

Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea — An inland desert resort that opened in late 2023, offering the Six Senses wellness-focused experience amid rolling sand dunes. One of two inland properties complementing the island resorts.

By 2030, The Red Sea destination will host 50 hotels with 8,000 rooms and up to 1,000 residential properties. Eleven more globally renowned brands are scheduled to open by 2026.

AMAALA

Positioned as an ultra-luxury wellness and lifestyle destination, AMAALA sits where the Hijaz Mountains meet the Red Sea. Its first phase centres on Triple Bay and features nine luxury resorts:

• Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA — 202 keys and 25 branded residences
• Rosewood AMAALA — 110 guest rooms and suites with separate family, couples, and spa zones, plus 26 private residences
• Six Senses AMAALA — 100 pool suites and villas, plus 25 branded residences
• Equinox Resort and Residences — 128 sleep-optimised guest rooms with a focus on wellness and performance

All nine AMAALA resorts are targeting completion by Q3 2026. When fully developed by 2027, the destination will offer approximately 3,000 hotel rooms across 25 hotels, along with 200 retail outlets and an international yacht club that will host the Grand Finale of The Ocean Race in 2027.

AlUla: Desert Heritage Hotels

AlUla, the ancient oasis city in northwestern Saudi Arabia that is home to the UNESCO-listed Hegra (Saudi Arabia’s answer to Petra), has emerged as one of the Kingdom’s most compelling hotel destinations. The accommodation here is as much about the experience as the rooms themselves — desert canyons, sandstone formations, and vast open skies define the setting.

Banyan Tree AlUla — Featuring 79 opulent villas in the Ashar Valley, Banyan Tree AlUla offers in-villa barbecues, hot air balloon excursions, a private spa, and three gourmet dining venues. The villas are nestled among towering rock formations, creating extraordinary privacy. Rooms from approximately $600 per night.

Our Habitas AlUla — A 96-villa eco-resort set in the desert canyons of Ashar Valley. Guests stay in stylish container-like villas with outdoor showers and traditional Saudi design touches like majlis seating and woven blankets. The ethos is conscious luxury — minimal environmental impact, maximum immersion in the landscape. Rooms from approximately $450 per night.

Dar Tantora — The House Hotel — Located in the restored mud-brick buildings of AlUla’s Old Town, Dar Tantora is a true boutique experience with just 30 rooms. Named one of Time magazine’s best places in the world, it offers an authenticity that purpose-built resorts cannot replicate. Rooms from approximately $350 per night.

Aman AlUla — The first of three Aman properties in AlUla opened in 2025, with a tented camp following in 2026 and a Janu-branded desert ranch in 2027. Aman’s presence alone signals AlUla’s arrival as a world-class destination. Expect rates from $1,500 per night and above.

Eastern Province: Hotels for Business Travellers

The Eastern Province — encompassing Dammam, Al Khobar, and Dhahran — is Saudi Arabia’s oil country and a critical hub for business travellers, particularly those working with Saudi Aramco and the broader energy sector. The hotel scene here is functional rather than glamorous, built around corporate needs.

The King Fahd Causeway connecting Al Khobar to Bahrain is a 25-kilometre drive, making the Eastern Province a convenient base for travellers who need to visit both countries.

NEOM: The Hotels of the Future

NEOM, the $500 billion giga-project on Saudi Arabia’s far northwestern coast, remains largely under construction, but its hospitality ambitions are extraordinary. The development includes several distinct zones, each with its own hotel programme:

• THE LINE — The 170-kilometre linear city will eventually include hotels within its mirrored walls, though opening dates remain fluid
• Sindalah — NEOM’s luxury island resort in the Gulf of Aqaba, designed as an exclusive yachting and diving destination, is expected to be among the first NEOM hospitality offerings to open
• Trojena — The mountain destination that will host the 2029 Asian Winter Games, featuring ski slopes and year-round outdoor activities at 2,600 metres elevation, with hotels planned by Bannister, among others

For now, NEOM’s hotels remain a future prospect, but they represent the most ambitious reimagining of what a hotel can be anywhere in the world.

Serviced Apartments and Alternative Accommodation

Hotels are not the only option in Saudi Arabia. The serviced apartment sector has grown significantly, and platforms like Airbnb now operate legally in the Kingdom following regulatory reforms.

Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are widely available in Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Eastern Province, and are particularly popular with business travellers on extended assignments. Brands like Marriott Executive Apartments, Fraser Suites, and Ascott operate across major cities. Expect to pay 20-40 percent less than equivalent hotel rooms for stays of a week or longer, with the added benefit of kitchenettes and living spaces.

Airbnb and Short-Term Rentals

Saudi Arabia legalised short-term home rentals under a bylaw that permits citizens to rent out their properties. Listings require an 8-digit permit number starting with 50. Airbnb is active in most major cities, with the strongest supply in Riyadh, Jeddah, and the holy cities (where family villas near the Haram are popular with larger groups). Prices typically range from SAR 150-300 ($40-80) per night for budget properties, making them a viable alternative to hotels for cost-conscious travellers.

Budget Options

For the most budget-conscious travellers, hotel apartments (furnished apartments operated like hotels) are available across Saudi cities from SAR 100-200 ($27-53) per night. The international budget chains — ibis, Super 8 (Wyndham is rolling out 100 Super 8 hotels across Saudi Arabia starting 2026), and Premier Inn — offer the most reliable standards at the lower end of the market.

What Makes Saudi Hotels Different

Staying in a Saudi Arabian hotel is not quite the same experience as staying in a hotel in Europe, North America, or even neighbouring Dubai. Several factors set the experience apart:

No Alcohol

No hotel in Saudi Arabia serves alcohol. There are no hotel bars, no minibars with wine, and no room service cocktails. Hotel minibars stock non-alcoholic beverages, and many properties have invested heavily in sophisticated mocktail programmes and premium coffee and tea offerings as alternatives. This applies to every hotel in the Kingdom without exception, including international brands that serve alcohol elsewhere.

Prayer Facilities

Every hotel in Saudi Arabia provides prayer mats and a Qibla direction indicator in each room, typically marked on the ceiling or desk. Most hotels have dedicated prayer rooms or an on-site mosque. Many rooms also contain a complimentary copy of the Quran. During Ramadan, hotels provide Iftar meals at sunset and Suhur meals before dawn, and room service menus are adjusted accordingly.

Gender Considerations

Saudi Arabia has relaxed many of its social regulations in recent years, and unmarried couples can now book hotel rooms together (a significant change from pre-2019 rules). However, some hotels — particularly in the holy cities — still maintain conservative policies. Many luxury hotels offer ladies-only fitness centres, separate swimming pool hours or dedicated women’s pool areas, and women-only spa facilities. These are standard amenities rather than restrictions — they are designed to provide comfortable options for all guests.

Halal Dining

All food served in Saudi Arabia is halal by default. There is no need to seek out halal-certified restaurants or check menus for pork products — they simply do not exist in the Kingdom. Hotel restaurants serve a wide range of international cuisines, all prepared to halal standards.

Weekend and Working Week

Saudi Arabia’s weekend is Friday and Saturday. Hotels are busiest with domestic leisure travellers on Thursday nights and Friday. Business hotels in Riyadh and the Eastern Province tend to offer better rates on Thursday through Saturday, while leisure properties may charge premiums.

Best Booking Platforms for Saudi Hotels

Pro tip: Always book directly with the hotel or chain app if you have loyalty status. Saudi Arabia’s luxury hotels are generous with upgrades, particularly during off-peak periods. Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors members frequently report suite upgrades at properties that struggle to fill their top-tier rooms outside of peak season.

Seasonal Guide: When to Book and What to Expect

Peak Season (October to March)

The most comfortable weather coincides with higher hotel demand. Riyadh Season runs through these months, driving up rates in the capital. The Red Sea coast and AlUla are at their best during this period. Book at least two to three months ahead for popular properties.

Shoulder Season (April and September)

Temperatures are warm but manageable. Hotel rates drop noticeably outside of Ramadan and Hajj dates (which shift annually). Excellent value, particularly in Riyadh and Jeddah.

Low Season (May to August)

Summer temperatures in Riyadh regularly exceed 45 degrees Celsius, and even Jeddah’s coastal humidity becomes oppressive. Hotel rates drop significantly — except during Hajj and Ramadan when they are applicable. Some Red Sea resorts offer excellent summer deals, as the coastal climate is more moderate than the interior.

Ramadan

During the holy month of Ramadan, restaurants and cafes are closed during daylight hours, and the pace of life shifts dramatically. Hotels serve Iftar (sunset meal) and Suhur (pre-dawn meal) to guests, and many properties create special Ramadan dining experiences. Hotels in Mecca and Medina see their highest demand during the last ten nights of Ramadan. Room rates spike 3-5 times standard rates in the holy cities.

Tips for Business Travellers

• Location matters: In Riyadh, the Diplomatic Quarter and King Fahd Road corridor put you close to government ministries and major corporate offices. The King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) is the emerging business hub. In the Eastern Province, Al Khobar is more convenient than Dammam for most Aramco-related business
• Meeting facilities: Five-star hotels in Riyadh and Jeddah offer extensive conference facilities. The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, Hilton Riyadh, and InterContinental Riyadh are popular choices for business events
• Working week: Sunday through Thursday. Schedule your arrival for Saturday evening or Sunday morning
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is free and fast at virtually all hotels in Saudi Arabia, including budget properties
• Dress code: Business attire is expected in hotel lobbies and restaurants. While the Kingdom has relaxed dress codes for tourists, business travellers should dress conservatively

Tips for Tourists

• Visa: Most nationalities can obtain a Saudi tourist e-visa online in minutes. It is valid for one year with multiple entries
• Currency: The Saudi Riyal is pegged to the US dollar at 3.75 SAR = 1 USD. Credit cards are accepted everywhere; Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely supported
• Tipping: A 15 percent service charge is typically included in hotel restaurant bills. Additional tipping is appreciated but not expected. SAR 10-20 for bellhops and housekeeping is standard at luxury properties
• Transport: Riyadh’s Metro system opened in late 2024, connecting key hotel districts. In other cities, ride-hailing apps (Uber and the local Careem) are the most convenient transport option
• Check-in ID: Hotels require passport or national ID at check-in. This is a government regulation, not a hotel policy
• For more detailed cost planning, see our Saudi Arabia cost guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can unmarried couples stay together in Saudi hotels?

Yes. Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has allowed unmarried couples — including foreign visitors — to share hotel rooms. Hotels no longer require proof of marriage at check-in. However, standards in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina may be more conservative.

Is there alcohol in Saudi hotel minibars?

No. Saudi Arabia prohibits the sale and consumption of alcohol throughout the Kingdom. Hotel minibars stock non-alcoholic beverages only, and there are no hotel bars. This applies to all hotels, including international brands.

How far in advance should I book hotels for Hajj?

At least six months, and ideally 9-12 months for premium properties near the Masjid al-Haram. Hotels within the Clock Tower complex in Mecca regularly sell out a year in advance for Hajj season. Consider booking through the official Nusuk platform for packages that include accommodation, transport, and visa services.

Do Saudi hotels have swimming pools?

Most four-star and five-star hotels have swimming pools. Some luxury hotels offer separate pool hours or dedicated pools for women and families. Budget hotels are less likely to have pools, though many serviced apartment complexes include basic pool facilities.

What is the best hotel in Saudi Arabia?

It depends on what you are looking for. For urban luxury, the Four Seasons Riyadh and Ritz-Carlton Riyadh are the acknowledged leaders. For a resort experience, the St. Regis Red Sea Resort on the Ummahat Islands is in a class of its own. For heritage and landscape, Banyan Tree AlUla and Aman AlUla are extraordinary. For pilgrimage, the Fairmont Makkah Clock Royal Tower offers unmatched proximity to the Masjid al-Haram.

Are Saudi hotels expensive?

Saudi Arabia offers better value than Dubai or Abu Dhabi at every price tier. Budget hotels start from $35-50 per night, mid-range properties from $75-160, and five-star luxury from $150-400. Prices spike significantly during Hajj, Ramadan, and Riyadh Season. The holy cities are generally more expensive than Riyadh or Jeddah during religious seasons.

Can I use Airbnb in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. Saudi Arabia legalised short-term home rentals, and Airbnb operates across major cities. Legitimate listings carry an 8-digit permit number starting with 50. Airbnb is particularly popular in the holy cities, where family villas near the Haram offer more space than hotels at competitive rates.

What should women know about staying in Saudi hotels?

Saudi Arabia has relaxed its social regulations significantly since 2019. Women can check into hotels independently without a male guardian, and dress codes for tourists are relaxed (though modest dress is appreciated). Many luxury hotels offer ladies-only fitness centres, separate spa facilities, and dedicated women’s pool areas as standard amenities.

Last updated: March 2026. Hotel rates are approximate and vary by season, availability, and booking platform. For the latest travel information, see our Saudi Arabia travel guides.