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22 January 2026

Daily Newsletter

22 January 2026

Accor’s luxury brand Sofitel opens first hotel in Riyadh

The hotel offers extensive event facilities, 388 rooms, and a mix of French and local hospitality influences.

Anwesha Pattanaik January 21 2026

Accor’s luxury hotel brand Sofitel has opened its first hotel in Riyadh, marking the brand’s entry into Saudi Arabia’s capital.

Located in the Ar Rahmaniyyah district, Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre adds nearly 8,500m² of event space to the city, including what is currently the largest luxury hotel convention centre in Riyadh.

The property comprises 388 rooms and suites and is positioned close to key landmarks such as Kingdom Centre Tower, Kingdom Centre Mall, and Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The launch aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 by supporting the development of hospitality infrastructure and fostering international business and cultural events in the Kingdom.

Sofitel’s arrival brings a blend of French-inspired hospitality with influences from local culture, which can be seen in architectural design and operational offerings.

The Princess Nouf International Convention Centre within the hotel features a ballroom, breakout rooms, and technology to support conferences or social gatherings for up to 4,000 guests.

For wellness services, Sofitel Spa by Clarins will open soon, providing facilities such as indoor pools, hammam amenities, vitality pools, thermal zones and 12 treatment rooms for men and women.

Sofitel Riyadh Hotel and Convention Centre managing director Fadeel Wehbe said: “We are thrilled to welcome guests to our hotel. Combining Sofitel's hallmark French zest with Riyadh's rich traditions, we aim to provide guests with a space that is both inspiring and luxurious.”

This opening follows ongoing expansion for Sofitel worldwide.

The brand has renovated more than one-third of its hotels globally and plans further growth with nearly 40 new properties scheduled to open internationally in the future.

Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems CEO Maud Bailly said: “Sofitel Riyadh Convention Centre stands as a bold expression of our brand's renewal and global vision, and as our first address in the capital, it perfectly embodies a culturally rooted, emotionally engaging luxury where French art de vivre meets the vibrant spirit of Riyadh.”

In October 2025, Accor collaborated with Jabal Omar Development Company to launch its Sofitel luxury hotel brand in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

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