Saudi Arabia

Riyadh's Red Palace to be transformed into a ultra-luxury hotel with a USD 800 billion investment

Synopsis

In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the iconic Red Palace is set to become the world's first ultra-luxury hotel within a former royal residence. Spanning 365,000 square feet, this historic edifice will offer guests a royal experience, complete with artifacts from King Saud's reign and spa treatments featuring traditional ingredients. Boutique Group, the project's developer, aims to blend historical charm with modern luxury. Partnering with Sommet Education, they are training a local workforce to support Saudi Arabia's $800 billion tourism goal. With its prime location and cultural significance, the Red Palace promises an unparalleled stay when it opens in 2025.

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In the heart of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a remarkable transformation is underway. The Red Palace, a sprawling 365,000-square-foot edifice steeped in royal history, is poised to become the world's first ultra-luxury hotel housed within a former royal residence. This is not merely a new accommodation option; it's a meticulously crafted portal to a bygone era, promising an experience unlike any other.

This isn't your typical luxury stay. Boutique Group, the hospitality company behind the project, aims to offer guests an unparalleled experience - a chance to live like royalty. From the moment you arrive an hour or so from the city's main airport, expect to be treated like a VIP. Staff, dressed in modern interpretations of traditional attire, will usher you into a bygone era.

The Red Palace, built in the 1940s, once served as a home for King Saud bin Abdulaziz, the second ruler of modern Saudi Arabia. The meticulous restoration ensures the hotel retains its historical charm. Artifacts from King Saud's reign will adorn the heritage lounge, while spa treatments incorporate traditional ingredients like black seeds. Diners will even have the chance to savor dishes inspired by the royal family's favorite recipes. The very air will be infused with the scent of Taif roses, a favorite of King Saud.

The Red Palace isn't just about extravagance; it's also about creating opportunities. Boutique Group is partnering with hospitality institutions like Sommet Education to train a local Saudi workforce. This ensures guests receive exceptional service (with a dedicated palace host trained to fulfill almost any request!), while contributing to the development of the country's USD 800 billion tourism industry, which aims to attract 150 million tourists a year by 2030.

While Riyadh may not be traditionally considered a tourist destination, the Red Palace's location offers a unique advantage. Situated just minutes from the city's main airport and within walking distance of historical landmarks like the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and Murabba Historical Palace, the hotel provides an easy base to explore the city. The upcoming metro system will further enhance accessibility. It's also important to note that Deera Square, a reminder of the complexities of the kingdom's history, is a short distance away.

The Red Palace, with its 70 rooms, is a pioneering project, paving the way for similar transformations of other royal palaces in Saudi Arabia, including Tuwaiq Palace in Riyadh and Al Hamra Palace in Jeddah. This initiative reflects the country's broader goal of diversifying its economy beyond oil dependence.

It's important to acknowledge the complexities of Saudi Arabia's history. While the Red Palace offers a glimpse into a bygone era of royalty, landmarks like Deera Square serve as a reminder of the country's evolving traditions.

The Red Palace promises to be more than just a luxury hotel; it's a portal to a bygone era, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and unparalleled service. With opening slated for 2025, this project is sure to generate excitement among luxury travelers seeking an experience unlike any other.

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