As one of Riyadh’s earliest luxury hotels, Crowne Plaza Riyadh Palace has long stood as a symbol of hospitality excellence. Today, it continues to shape the industry—not just through its refined service and enduring charm, but by investing in the next generation of Saudi talent.
The Crowne Plaza Riyadh Palace Hotel, formerly known as the Riyadh Palace Hotel, holds a distinguished place in Saudi Arabia’s hospitality history. It was among the first luxury hotels to shape the industry’s early landscape. Its striking black exterior and distinctive three-pronged architectural design remain a recognizable landmark in the Murabba District, adjacent to key government ministries.
Over the years, the hotel has served as a favored venue for high-profile gatherings, regularly welcoming events organized by community groups, government officials, and diplomatic representatives. In 2018, the property transitioned to new ownership under Taibah, marking a new chapter in its legacy.
Spanning nine floors, the hotel features 306 guest rooms, including a presidential suite, club lounge, business center, fitness facility, international restaurant, and outdoor pool. Recent renovations have elevated the guest experience while preserving the hotel’s original character.
During our three-day family stay, we were welcomed into a spacious Standard Suite that offered city views, thoughtful amenities, and a warm, attentive atmosphere. From the wooden keycards — one of the hotel’s many sustainability efforts — to the plush king-sized bed and Nespresso mornings, every detail reflected comfort and care. Breakfasts were lively and diverse, featuring international dishes and poolside views that drew us in for afternoon swims. Our toddler especially enjoyed the kids’ pool, while the lifeguard’s attentiveness added peace of mind.
Evenings were spent savoring seafood and grilled favorites at the Palace Restaurant, with in-room dining delivering prompt service and seasonal touches like fresh watermelon juice. The overall experience was relaxed and memorable — a seamless blend of hospitality, family-friendly amenities, and understated luxury.
While the hotel’s facilities are comprehensive, its greatest asset lies in its people. The team is known for delivering attentive, personalized service—an achievement rooted in a strong culture of training and retention. The hotel places particular emphasis on supporting Saudi professionals in hospitality, with a high retention rate. The minimum tenure among employees is four years, reflecting a culture of stability and growth.
One team member, who joined in 2018 as a receptionist and now serves as Front Office Supervisor, shared: “Working in hospitality allows you to grow professionally and connect with people from around the world.” She credits her development to the supportive environment fostered by Taibah, the hotel’s management company. “We receive regular training and guidance from international experts, which strengthens our confidence and enhances our service.”
Hotel Manager Mr. Bashar Salman underscores the importance of investing in staff development, particularly among Saudi employees. “When employees feel valued and motivated, it directly translates into the quality of service they provide,” he explains. This philosophy is evident throughout the hotel, where professionalism and warmth are consistently demonstrated across all departments.
As Riyadh continues to evolve, the Crowne Plaza Riyadh Palace Hotel remains a steadfast presence—balancing heritage with progress. Its commitment to service excellence and the empowerment of local talent positions it not only as a legacy institution, but as a forward-thinking leader in the hospitality sector.
