Marriott International has opened Bab Samhan, the first Luxury Collection Hotel in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia.
The hotel features 134 guest rooms, including 23 suites which blend Najdi design with modern luxury and feature handcrafted artifacts and local artwork.
It also offers 3 exquisite restaurants, a world class wellness focused spa, together with cultural experiences, including UNESCO tours of Diriyah for a truly immersive experience.
Opening of Bab Samhan Hotel
Diriyah, with its profound historical significance, serves as the perfect backdrop for this newest gem in the Luxury Collection’s crown. As the site where the First Saudi State was established in 1727, Diriyah has long been a symbol of the nation’s cultural roots.
The historic district of Diriyah, often referred to as the birthplace of the Kingdom, now boasts a remarkable addition of Bab Samhan Hotel to its cultural landscape.
The introduction of Bab Samhan to this storied landscape marks a significant milestone in the area’s development as a global cultural and luxury travel destination.
“Bab Samhan” Meaning
The hotel’s name, “Bab Samhan,” carries deep historical resonance. It pays homage to one of the most iconic gates in historic Diriyah, where Imam Abdullah bin Saud once strategized the city’s defense. This connection to the past is not merely nominal; it permeates every aspect of the hotel’s design and ethos.
Bab Samhan Hotel’s Location
Bab Samhan’s location adjacent to the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif elevates its status as a cultural landmark. At-Turaif, with its well-preserved palaces, mosques, and mudbrick structures, offers guests a tangible link to the region’s rich past.
The hotel is in proximity to Diriyah’s other iconic destinations, including Bujairi Terrace and Dolce & Gabanna‘s newest brand center ensuring that visitors can easily immerse themselves in the authentic Najdi heritage that defines the central region of Saudi Arabia.
Design of Bab Samhan Hotel
The architectural design of Bab Samhan is a masterful fusion of traditional Najdi aesthetics and contemporary luxury.
Every corner of Bab Samhan reflects careful consideration of Najdi architectural principles. Organic walls, reminiscent of those that have sheltered travelers for millennia, create a sense of continuity with the surrounding historical structures.
These expertly crafted walls pay homage to traditional building techniques and serve the practical purpose of natural cooling in the arid climate.
Interior of Bab Samhan Hotel
While the exterior exudes historical charm, the interior of Bab Samhan is a testament to modern luxury. The design team has ingeniously incorporated elements inspired by the region’s natural beauty.
These include the sun’s golden hues, the delicate patterns of local wildflowers, and the sturdy silhouettes of palm fronds and mountains.
This thoughtful integration of natural motifs creates a seamless transition between the hotel’s historical context and contemporary offerings.
Wujar Lobby Lounge
The lobby lounge, aptly named Wujar, draws inspiration from the old social spaces where coffee and tea would simmer over open fires. This thoughtful nod to tradition creates a welcoming atmosphere where guests can relax and socialize, much as travelers have done in this region for centuries.
Living at Bab Samhan Hotel
Bab Samhan offers 134 meticulously designed guest rooms, including 23 luxurious suites. Each space is a harmonious blend of Najdi aesthetics and modern comfort, providing guests a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration or business.
The rooms and suites are adorned with light cream hues and intricate geometrical patterns characteristic of Najdi’s design. Local artwork, handcrafted artifacts, and carefully curated books offer guests insight into the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
The inclusion of ancestral poetry in the turndown service adds a unique touch, paying homage to the cherished Arabian art of storytelling.
Restaurants at Bab Samhan Hotel
Bab Samhan takes pride in offering a diverse culinary experience showcasing the best Saudi Arabian cuisine and international flavors. The hotel boasts 3 distinctive restaurants, each with a unique concept and ambiance.
Jareed
The signature restaurant, Jared, is a gastronomic ode to the culinary heritage of the Najd region. Here, traditional cooking methods are paired with contemporary techniques to create familiar and innovative dishes.
The menu features authentic favorites such as tender muqalal, hearty matazeez, and aromatic kabsa; all prepared using locally sourced, seasonal produce.
Taleed by Chef Michael Mina
Taleed, helmed by James Beard award-winning Chef Michael Mina, offers a vibrant dining experience that marries classic Mediterranean cuisine with regional Saudi flavors.
The restaurant’s lively atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for social gatherings, where guests can enjoy expertly crafted dishes that push the boundaries of culinary fusion.
Medheef
Medheef presents a diverse menu inspired by international culinary traditions for all-day dining. The restaurant’s centerpiece is its dramatic open kitchen, where guests can watch skilled chefs prepare various dishes worldwide.
The menu changes seasonally, ensuring each visit offers a new culinary discovery.
Wellness at The Earthen Spa
Understanding the importance of holistic well-being, Bab Samhan offers guests a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation at The Earthen Spa. The spa menu features various treatments utilizing organic, locally sourced ingredients.
The Earthen Spa also offers a program of guided meditation and yoga sessions. These classes, led by experienced instructors, provide guests with stress relief and mindfulness tools that they can carry with them long after their stay.
Spaces for Every Occasion
Bab Samhan is not just a retreat for individual travelers; it’s also a premier destination for events and gatherings of all sizes. The hotel’s event spaces are designed to accommodate everything from intimate business meetings to grand celebrations.
Versatile Meeting Rooms
Five flexible meeting spaces, all flooded with natural light, provide the perfect setting for productive business gatherings. Each room has cutting-edge audiovisual technology and can be configured to suit various meeting styles and sizes.
The Grand Ballroom
The hotel’s 400 square meter ballroom is a showstopper for larger events. Capable of hosting up to 250 guests, this elegant space is ideal for weddings, galas, and conferences. The ballroom’s design incorporates elements of traditional Najdi architecture, creating a unique backdrop for memorable events.
Reshaping Luxury Hospitality
As Diriyah continues to evolve as a destination, Bab Samhan sets a new standard for luxury hospitality deeply rooted in local culture and heritage.
Bab Samhan offers a place to stay and a gateway to discovering the kingdom’s soul for travelers seeking an authentic, luxurious experience in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s historical center.
More Exciting Projects in Diriyah
Dolce & Gabbana Boutique and Cafe
Dolce & Gabbana, the renowned Italian luxury brand, has launched its largest boutique in Saudi Arabia at Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah.
Spanning 1,500 square meters, the boutique includes the DG Caffè, marking the brand’s first café in the Kingdom.
The store combines signature Italian sophistication with an exclusive Abaya collection, while the café serves Italian dishes infused with flavors suited to Saudi preferences.
This prestigious addition solidifies Bujairi Terrace’s reputation as a prime destination for luxury dining and shopping, in line with Diriyah’s cultural aspirations.
Diriyah’s 2 Multibillion Dollar Districts
Saudi Arabia has announced the unveiling of two major districts as part of the $63 billion Diriyah Gigaproject. The first is the Qurain Cultural District, and the second is the Northern District.
The Qurain District will host two luxury hotels, while the Northern District, already under development, will feature the King Salman Foundation, a university, museums, a library, and a public plaza.
These new districts are set to enhance Riyadh‘s cultural and tourism attractions, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Raffles Residences Diriyah
Diriyah Company has introduced the remarkable Raffles Residences Diriyah during the Cityscape Global 2024 event in Riyadh.
This unique development will feature 90 luxury apartments and townhouses inspired by Najdi architecture, offering breathtaking views of Wadi Hanifah and access to top-tier facilities at the Raffles Diriyah Hotel.
The Raffles Residences initiative aligns with Diriyah’s vision to become a leading luxury destination, welcoming over 100,000 future residents and 50 million visitors annually.
Diriyah 8 New Hotels’ Construction
Diriyah Company will launch construction on 8 New Luxury Hotels this November as part of its $63 billion mega-project.
The lineup features The Ritz-Carlton, The Baccarat Hotel, The Armani Hotel, The Address Hotel, The Rosewood Hotel, and Raffles.
These hotels are scheduled to be fully open to guests by 2027, while the new Bab Samhan Marriott Luxury Hotel is set to welcome visitors this November.
Designs of Wadi Safar Equestrian and Polo Club
Diriyah Company has introduced the Najdi-inspired architectural plans for Wadi Safar Equestrian and Polo Club, situated close to Riyadh.
Wadi Safar is a high-end, master-planned community featuring hotels and residences located in the historic Diriyah area of Riyadh.
Recently, Diriyah Company awarded a $2.1 billion contract to construct the Equestrian and Polo Club and four luxury hotels, including the renowned Six Senses brand.
Diriyah’s $2.13 Billion Contract
Diriyah Company has granted its biggest ever $2.13 billion contract to date, valued to Albawani and Urbacon Company for the development of Wadi Safar in Riyadh.
The contract will consist of four high-end hotels, including Aman, Six Senses, Chedi, and Faena, along with the Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club, retail spaces, mosques, and clinics.
This aligns with Diriyah’s goal to accommodate 000 individuals and tourists and to evolve into a top cultural and leisurely tourism hotspot.
Diriyah Zallal
Diriyah company has announced the details of its upcoming premier commercial and retail center, Zallal, which is set to open in 2025.
Located next to the renowned Bujairi Terrace and At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage site, Zallal will have direct access to Wadi Hanifah.
The development will consist of two low-rise office buildings and 12 retail and dining places and has already sparked interest from national and international brands.
Zallal is expected to bring vibrancy to Diriyah’s ever-changing landscape, providing a prime location near the new luxurious Bab Samhan Hotel.
Diriyah Square
Located near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Diriyah Square is a future retail and innovative cultural hub that is part of the larger Diriyah Gate project.
Encompassing 186 square kilometers, Diriyah Square seamlessly combines contemporary amenities with traditional Najdi architecture that is 300 years old.
The destination will feature more than 400 stores, 100+ dining options, nine cultural theaters, six high-end hotels and resorts, 34 branded residential units, three integrated residential communities, five office complexes, underground parking, and a Kindergarten.
Diriyah Arena
Diriyah Company has announced plans for a 20,000 Seater Arena in Diriyah as part of Diriyah’s $63 billion Gigaproject master plan located on the outskirts of Riyadh.
London’s HKS architects have introduced groundbreaking designs, unveiling a 76,000 square-meter Diriyah arena embraced by an urban park.
Drawing inspiration from the intricate motifs of Najdi forts and palaces, the Arena’s design harmonizes Saudi heritage with a touch of modern sophistication.
Upon its completion, the arena aspires to establish itself as a frontrunner in the Middle East, welcoming prominent sports and cultural events.
The Ritz-Carlton Branded Residences
Diriyah Company and Ritz-Carlton have also announced the launch of the first Ritz-Carlton Luxury Branded Residences in the Kingdom to nurture a harmonious community experience and promote social interaction through cultural venues, plazas, and leisure facilities.
The Villas will have 3 distinct luxury interior designs ranging from Najdi to contemporary. On completion, the Diriyah Project will feature 20,000 residential units, luxury hotels, and restaurants.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences offers six residential villa layouts with three to five bedrooms. Each villa includes a courtyard, an ideal space for residents to relax and unwind. Furthermore, residents can choose three interior designs, from traditional Najdi to contemporary.
Keep Reading: Dolce & Gabbana Opens Its Largest Boutique and First DG Cafe at Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah
