InterContinental Riyadh is a big, self-contained hotel on King Saud Road in the central part of the city, with 274 rooms and an unusual amount going on inside the grounds. It has its own golf course, a bowling alley, an outdoor tennis court, racquetball and squash, a health club and a spa offering massage, plus a garden, shops, and a restaurant called Al Bustan with two coffee shops. Rooms range from classic kings and twins to club floor rooms and a ladder of suites that ends with a Royal Suite with a jetted tub. For travellers who want a hotel that feels like a small resort and does not need to be near the Olaya towers, it is a calm and spacious choice.
Location and getting around
The hotel is on King Saud Road, within a short walk of King Faisal Conference Hall and the Ministry of Interior, and a short drive from the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and Panorama Mall. King Khaled International Airport is a longer drive than the airport-side hotels, so allow time for traffic when you arrive or leave.
Most visitors use taxis or ride-hailing apps to reach Diriyah, the Sky Bridge and the old centre, and the hotel can arrange a round-trip airport shuttle for a fee per vehicle. It is not a hotel for walking to restaurants and shops, so factor transport into your plans.
Rooms and who it suits
There are fifteen room types, including classic rooms with a king bed or twin beds, accessible rooms, club floor rooms, one-bedroom suites, junior suites and premium rooms, one of which comes with pool access. Rooms have premium bedding, air conditioning, coffee and tea makers, laptop-friendly workspaces and around-the-clock room service, and the hotel can add extra beds and infant cots free of charge.
It suits business travellers, families who want space and sports facilities, and couples who value quiet over nightlife. If a pool matters to you, ask the hotel which rooms and facilities include pool access before you book, because it is not highlighted among the main amenities.
Good to know
Free self parking and valet parking are both offered, WiFi in the rooms is free, and a full breakfast is available for a fee, though some rates include it, so compare before you pay. Check-in starts mid-afternoon and check-out is at noon. Pets are not accepted. The hotel is Green Key certified, and it offers free cancellation on selected rates.
Riyadh is at its most comfortable from roughly November to March, which is also when events fill the calendar and rates rise, so book early for that season and check ID requirements for your party when you reserve. Use the golf course, tennis court and spa for a slow day between sightseeing outings, and spend your evenings at Diriyah or in the Olaya restaurants.
Why stay here
- ✓Golf course on site
- ✓Spa with massage
- ✓Health club
- ✓Bowling alley
- ✓Outdoor tennis court
- ✓Al Bustan restaurant and two coffee shops
- ✓Free self parking and valet parking
- ✓Free in-room WiFi
Good questions
Is the hotel close to the airport?+
No, King Khaled International Airport is a longer drive than the airport-side hotels. A round-trip airport shuttle can be arranged for a fee.
What is there to do on site?+
The hotel has a golf course, a bowling alley, an outdoor tennis court, racquetball and squash, a health club and a spa with massage.
Is breakfast included?+
A full breakfast is available for a fee, and some rates include it. Compare room types when you book.
