Discover The Spirit of Diriyah At The Bab Samhan Mariott Hotel

Harpers Bazaar Arabia

2 days ago

With its mudbrick walls, Najdi details and cultural programming, the Luxury Collection's Bab Samhan Hotel invites guests to experience Saudi tradition from the inside out
It's official. Bab Samhan has opened its doors in the heart of Diriyah. Tucked within its winding alleyways, this luxurious Marriott hotel is all set to offer travellers an immersive stay deeply rooted in Saudi tradition. Just steps from the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district, the hotel is surrounded by centuries of history and the distinctive landscape of the Najd region. Known for its ancient mudbrick architecture and Kingdom's origins through restored palaces, mosques and cultural legacy, Diriyah offers a glimpse into the traditional structures. Bab Samhan takes its name from one of the area's most iconic gates where Imam Abdullah bin Saud once laid plans to defend the city – underscoring the hotel's connection to the region's layered past.
The hotel features 134 rooms and suites, many with views over the historic surroundings. Built in the traditional Najdi Style, its design is marked by textured adobe walls, intricately carved timber ceilings and open courtyards that mirror the rhythm of old Diriyah. Inside, hospitality is warm and distinctly local. Guests are welcomed with traditional beverages and dates at Wujar, a lobby lounge inspired by classic Arabian gathering spaces. Local artwork, woven rugs and curated objects add texture and meaning to the interiors. Dining is central to the experience. Jareed reinterprets Najdi classics using seasonal local ingredients. Taleed by chef Michael Mina features Mediterranean flavours, while Medheef offers globally inspired cuisine from 2 lively open kitchen.
For wellness, The Earthen Spa delivers organic treatments and guided mindfulness sessions, with dedicated fitness spaces for men and women. The hotel also houses five flexible venues and a 400-square-metre ballroom for events and celebrations.
The hotel also offers guests an opportunity to connect deeply with the traditions of the Kingdom. From guided visits to the nearby UNESCO-listed At-Turaif to evenings filled with storytelling, poetry, and culinary discovery, the hotel curates experiences beyond hospitality – inviting travellers to engage with the rich heritage surrounding them.
Staying here isn't just another hotel stay – its waking up in a place where the past lingers in every details, and every wall has a tale to tell.