You might have come across Turaif, but are you familiar with Tuwaiq Palace? This grand architectural marvel stands as a symbol of Saudi history and culture. Its earthy hue mirrors a well-known facet of the Kingdom, reminiscent of the desert’s sandy dunes and ancient adobe houses. In 2019, this historic edifice hosted the inaugural event of the Tuwaiq Sculpture, which has since made it one of Riyadh’s most sought-after tourist destinations. Furthermore, it is currently undergoing a transformation into an upscale boutique hotel.
What Is Tuwaiq Palace?
Tuwaiq Palace is an architectural masterpiece situated in the Diplomatic Quarter of the Saudi capital, along Al Hattan Street. Erected in the mid-1980s, the palace garnered the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1998, a recognition it rightfully earned. Its exterior incorporates traditional elements inspired by fortress-like walls, desert oases, and tent-like structures. The sandy color harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings and offers panoramic views of the renowned Wadi Hanifa. Presently, the palace is known for hosting various social and cultural events and has undergone three renovations.
Where Can You Find Tuwaiq Palace?
This magnificent palace graces the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh, situated on Al Hattan Street. The Diplomatic Quarter (Al Safarat) lies to the northwest of the capital and spans approximately eight square kilometers, featuring embassies, residential complexes, dining establishments, parks, and more.
What Does Tuwaiq Palace Offer?
The palace’s exterior boasts an 800-meter-long “living wall” that elegantly curves around itself, enveloping a sprawling garden measuring 800 meters in length, 12 meters in height, and seven to 13 meters in width, evoking the appearance of a fortress. Five tent-like structures provide shade and shelter from the sun.
Within the palace, you’ll find 24,000 square meters of recreational, social, dining, banqueting, conference, and lodging spaces, including a bowling alley, billiards, a library, and guest rooms. Moreover, the premises feature a swimming pool, as well as tennis and squash courts, a sauna, fitness facilities, and lounge areas. The outdoor garden is adorned with numerous trees, shrubs, pavilions, ponds, and benches, all within a 10-minute walk.
What Lies Ahead for Tuwaiq Palace?
Boutique Group, a hospitality company supported by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has ambitious plans to transform this magnificent palace into a high-end boutique hotel. It is one of three ongoing projects by the group, alongside The Red Palace in Riyadh and Al Hamra Palace in Jeddah.
The new Tuwaiq Palace hotel will feature more than 93 rooms, including 56 luxury villas and 40 upscale suites. Guests will also have access to various public event spaces, seven spa suites, and seven dining options.
