Thanks to the Middle East’s mix of stunning coastlines, lush landscapes and impressive selection of luxury hotels, there are a million and one reasons to opt for a holiday under the Arabian sun. From the scenic city of Muscat to remote plains just a stone’s throw from Riyadh, Radisson Collection’s exceptional portfolio of extraordinary properties is making its mark on the Middle East with three one-of-a-kind properties that promise authentic cultural experiences through exquisite food, excursions, design and more. And all without the jet lag.
MANSARD RIYADH
With its chic Parisian aesthetics, epic culinary scene and impressive collection of 191 stylish rooms, suites, apartments and villas, Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel, is one of Riyadh’s hottest properties. Located in Ar Rabi close to King Abdullah Financial District, this design-forward hotel is inspired by the French capital’s most picturesque neighbourhoods, standing out from the crowd thanks to its 19th-century-inspired Haussmann façade, Mansard roofing style, and corridors which come lined with contemporary works by local artist, Mishal Saad Alzaid.
While all guest rooms are a sight for sore eyes, we highly recommend upgrading to one of the duplex villas which, spread across 230 square metres on two floors, come complete with kitchen, dining room, living room and powder room, plus three bedrooms and en suite bathrooms. Home to French fine dining restaurant L’ami Dave, all-day dining destination Sadelle’s, and famed New York eatery Carbone – which is reached via private entrance complete with a mini red carpet, the hotel also happens to be one of Riyadh’s most revered culinary hotspots, and somewhere you most certainly won’t go hungry. A majestic L’Occitane Spa (the first in the Saudi capital), hammam and fitness centre with indoor pool seal the deal.
HORMUZ GRAND MUSCAT
Sitting pretty just a 10-minute drive from Muscat International Airport, this luxurious five-star hotel is popular with both leisure and business travellers (it was awarded Oman’s Leading Business Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2024) looking for a sumptuous stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Blending both eastern and western influences in design, culture, and style, Hormuz Grand Muscat, A Radisson Collection Hotel is a 231-key property boasting spacious rooms and suites inspired by Omani heritage, all featuring huge beds and a sleek rain shower, many of which boast a balcony overlooking the mesmerising Muscat Mountains.
A gastronome’s delight, start the morning as you mean to go on with a sumptuous international breakfast at the Straits. For dinner, OMNY puts a New York spin on traditional dishes with some of the best fresh seafood and grills in town. Elsewhere savour North Indian cuisine at Qureshi Bab-Al-Hind, sip your favourite cocktail at The Vault or have a cup of traditional Arabian coffee at The Hub. You also can’t leave without a visit to the Hormuz Spa, where therapists are trained in Thai and Balinese techniques that soothe both body and soul, while fitness buffs are spoilt for choice with tennis courts, fitness centres and swimming pools. In other words, all bases are covered.
NOFA RIYADH
Can’t make it to the Serengeti for safari anytime soon? Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort is the next best thing. Less than 100 kilometres from the capital overlooking Nofa Wildlife Park, here you’ll be able to spot cheetahs, elephants, zebras and giraffes roaming the grounds for a true Out of Africa experience. The wildlife park has a conservation arm too – giraffes have been born through its breeding programme and several endangered species call the Saudi reserve, home.
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Comprising of an equestrian estate complete with polo field and show-jumping arena, plus an 18-hole golf course, guests checking into one of Nofa Riyadh’s 57 private villas – all of which come with African-style thatched roofs, a private swimming pool and garden – will have plenty to keep them busy, while those after a more fly-and-flop style of escape can spend their days lazing around one of the two resort pools or enjoying treatments at its swanky spa. And if all that excitement has you working up an appetite, the hotel’s myriad of restaurants range from casual poolside bites to steaks and sushi with a side helping of some theatrical service.
