A Jewel of Cultural Heritage and Luxury Hospitality in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh’s Tuwaiq Palace was built as a cultural meeting place, where international dignitaries were introduced to Saudi culture and shared their own. Under PIF-owned Boutique Group, the landmark takes on another high-profile role – celebrating the Kingdom’s cultural heritage while setting a new benchmark as an ultra-luxury boutique hotel immersed in a sense of place.
Tuwaiq Palace has guarded over Riyadh for four decades, a proud symbol of Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage. Perched atop a plateau in the Diplomatic Quarter and visible from kilometres away, it embodies the spirit of openness and cultural exchange that has come to define the Kingdom under the visionary direction of His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Originally envisioned as a diplomatic club, the property has served as one of the country’s most important international meeting points, having hosted government functions, state receptions and cultural festivals for almost 40 years. In that time, it has introduced Saudi culture and customs to the international community, and is where high-profile global dignitaries presented their own to the Kingdom’s leadership.
In March 2024, the grand dame had her swan song in the public sphere, hosting an elegant reception by the Ministry of Tourism to celebrate Saudi Arabia welcoming 100 million tourists. The cultural landmark will now be redeveloped by Boutique Group into an ultra-luxury boutique hotel, one of the first in the Kingdom.
Tuwaiq Palace’s iconic structure nods to two local archetypes, the fortress and the tent, a connection to past desert civilisations. It also incorporates an oasis – a symbol of life in a harsh, arid landscape. Designed by local firm Omrania & Associates in collaboration with Germany’s Atelier Frei Otto and the UK’s Bureau Happold, the property opened its doors in 1985. Its architectural significance was recognized with the prestigious Aga Khan Award in 1998, further cementing its status as an iconic structure.
Boutique Group, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, is contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of growing the hospitality industry and establishing Saudi Arabia as a premier tourism destination by transforming historically significant palaces into ultra-luxury boutique hotels. Alongside Tuwaiq Palace, the group’s previously inaccessible royal residences include Jeddah’s Al Hamra Palace and The Red Palace in the heart of old Riyadh. Boutique Group is giving Tuwaiq Palace a new lease of life as a one-of-its-kind property offering guests a unique local urban experience. It will feature more than 90 keys, including suites and villas, as well as public event spaces, an opulent spa, and a selection of high-end food and beverages outlets.
The Group’s dedicated culture and heritage team is incorporating Saudi’s cultural and historical heritage into all the palaces, blending tradition with the highest standards of modern amenities and state-of-the-art facilities. Tuwaiq Palace will retain its status as an architectural masterpiece, with its majestic façade and intricate detailing reflecting the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and seamlessly merging traditional Saudi elements with contemporary design principles.
Perched regally on a plateau within the Diplomatic Quarter, Tuwaiq Palace stands as an iconic landmark, offering a breathtaking view of Wadi Hanifah and its surrounding splendour. Inside, the interiors are meticulously adorned with natural materials like wood, leather, and pottery, carefully selected to harmonize with the surrounding environment.
Tuwaiq Palace is rising as a beacon of modern luxury hospitality, offering discerning guests an unparalleled experience immersed in Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage. The property provides an oasis of tranquillity and sophistication amidst the bustling capital city, and guests can expect personalised service, gourmet dining, and world-class amenities, ensuring an authentic and memorable stay that transcends expectations. Additionally, the palace’s strategic location in the picturesque valley of Tuwaiq adds to its allure, offering guests a serene retreat amidst nature’s splendour.
As Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards economic diversification and cultural development, Tuwaiq Palace remains poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the Kingdom’s hospitality landscape. With plans to welcome millions more in celebration of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, the property stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to preserving its legacy for future generations.
The traditions of hospitality and generosity have been an integral part of Saudi Arabia’s identity and intangible culture for thousands of years. With the Kingdom expanding its international presence in hospitality, this spirit lives on. Boutique Group and its properties such as Tuwaiq Palace are set to redefine the sector at the intersection of history and magnificence, and set a new industry benchmark – for Saudi Arabia and beyond.
BOUTIQUE GROUP
Website: https://boutiquegroup.com/
Contact Number: +966 553462543
Social Media: @boutiquegroupsa
