Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaBanban
InterContinental Durrat al Riyadh Resort & Spa by IHG
Gated desert oasis resort
Banban Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Renovated
2023
Price
$$$
Rated for
Wellness Resort LuxeOutside the door
The house
IHGGated desert oasis resort
The resort operates as a self-contained residential village outside the capital, designed for life lived entirely behind the gates.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
It’s laid out like a village around a winding lagoon, and its buildings mostly spread horizontally, topping out at six stories.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Banban sits north of the capital along the Qassim freeway, trading city traffic for open desert horizons.
The rooms
Rooms are shaped by vaulted ceilings and traditional arches, finished in warm desert tones and natural materials.
The water
Bring a swimsuit.
The spa and pool
Spa suites hold sunken soaking tubs, and white cabanas line the expansive outdoor infinity pool.
At the table
Breakfast buffets are set along arched brick colonnades, and covered terraces look out across the resort gardens.
How it began
Durrat Al-Riyadh was conceived in 2007 as the capital's first gated suburb, with this sprawling estate at its heart.
Riyadh
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.