Designed for global travellers and tastemakers navigating the capital's rapid evolution, the new Radisson Collection Residences, Riyadh pairs striking, heritage-inspired design with a curated lifestyle offering. From state-of-the-art wellness spaces to exceptional culinary destinations, it serves as a seamless, elevated sanctuary in the heart of the Kingdom's most dynamic city. Perfectly aligned with the influx of global executives, diplomats, and luxury travellers driving Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, this premier address offers a sophisticated sanctuary that bridges the gap between home and hotel.

We spoke with Firas Mneimneh, General Manager of Radisson Collection Residences, Riyadh about the Kingdom's rapidly evolving capital, its positioning as a premier destination for luxury travel, and how this landmark property is rewriting the rules of the residential stay.

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The future of luxury hospitality in the Kingdom

Riyadh is fast becoming a genuine contender among the world's luxury capitals. What does luxury mean to the Saudi guest specifically, and how does it differ from the more established expectations of London, Paris or Dubai?

Riyadh is emerging as a serious luxury destination, but its definition of luxury is developing its own identity rather than mirroring London, Paris, or Dubai. While established luxury capitals often emphasise heritage, visibility, or spectacle, Riyadh's luxury proposition is increasingly centred on personalisation, exceptional service, privacy, and culturally relevant experiences. As a result, brands succeeding in Riyadh are those that balance international standards with a strong understanding of local expectations, creating experiences that feel both exclusive and genuinely personal.

Radisson Collection Residences represents a serviced-residence model rather than a conventional hotel, designed for stays of a night or of many months. Why is this "living, not just staying" format the right one for Riyadh at this moment in the market's evolution?

Riyadh is at a stage of growth where many visitors are spending extended periods in the city, whether for business, investment, major projects, relocation, or frequent travel linked to Vision 2030 initiatives. These guests increasingly seek the comfort, flexibility, and sense of belonging that come with a residence, while still expecting the service standards of a luxury hotel.

The serviced-residence model responds directly to this shift. It offers guests the ability to live in Riyadh rather than simply stay in it, providing space, privacy, and convenience for both short and long-term stays. As the city attracts a growing international community and welcomes more repeat visitors, the demand is moving beyond traditional hotel accommodation toward experiences that feel more personal, residential, and connected to daily life. That makes the "living, not just staying" concept particularly relevant to Riyadh's current stage of evolution.

The property is set to be rooted in Saudi heritage rather than follow a global template. How important was this element for Radisson Collection Residences in Riyadh? And do you feel this is the next generation of luxury hospitality in the Kingdom?

Rooting the property in Saudi heritage was fundamental because today's luxury travellers is increasingly looking for experiences that reflect a genuine sense of place rather than a standardised global offering. Riyadh has a distinct cultural identity, and guests, both local and international, want to feel connected to the character, history, and traditions of the destination they are visiting.

This is particularly significant for Radisson Collection Residences Riyadh as it is the brand's first property within the Kingdom's first Salmani architectural tower. The development embodies the principles of Salmani architecture, creating a contemporary luxury experience that is deeply rooted in Riyadh's identity and heritage. By drawing inspiration from the city's architectural language and cultural character, the property offers an experience that is both internationally sophisticated and authentically local.

Luxury is no longer defined solely by premium finishes or international brands; it is increasingly about authenticity, relevance, and storytelling. In many ways, this represents the next phase of luxury hospitality in the Kingdom. As Saudi Arabia's tourism and hospitality sectors mature, the most successful developments are likely to be those that combine global standards with a strong local identity, offering guests experiences that could only exist in Saudi Arabia.

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Radisson Collection Riyadh Residences Firas GM

Guest experience innovation

The Radisson Collection promise is "Welcome to the Exceptional." In practical, operational terms, how do you personalise that experience for two very different guests — the executive here for a single night and the resident who calls the building home for a year?

"Welcome to the Exceptional" means understanding that luxury is not one-size-fits-all. The executive staying for a single night and the resident who makes the property their home for a year have very different expectations, but both value a seamless, highly personalised experience.

For short-stay guests, exceptional service is often about efficiency, convenience, and anticipating needs before they arise. From a smooth arrival and tailored in-room amenities to concierge support and flexible services, the focus is on maximising comfort and making every moment count.

For long-term residents, the approach is more relationship-driven. The experience evolves beyond hospitality into a sense of belonging, with teams getting to know individual preferences, routines, and lifestyle requirements over time. Whether it is personalised services, dedicated support, or creating opportunities for community and connection, the goal is to make residents feel truly at home while continuing to enjoy the benefits of luxury hospitality.

Ultimately, the promise remains the same for both: delivering an experience that is thoughtful, personalised, and designed around the individual rather than a standard service model.

Guest expectations are increasingly shaped by technology, privacy and seamless personalisation. Where does innovation genuinely elevate the guest experience, and where do you draw the line to protect the warmth and generosity of traditional Saudi hospitality?

Technology is most valuable when it removes friction from the guest journey and allows our teams to focus more on meaningful human interaction. Whether it is a seamless arrival experience, personalised preferences, digital concierge services, or anticipating guest needs through data and insights, innovation should enhance convenience without becoming the experience itself.

At the same time, hospitality remains a people-driven business. No amount of technology can replace genuine warmth, personal recognition, or the sense of welcome that guests remember long after their stay. We believe the role of innovation is to support our people, not replace them.

That balance is particularly important in Saudi Arabia, where hospitality is deeply rooted in culture and tradition. While guests increasingly expect efficiency, privacy, and personalised service, they also value authentic human connection. The key is knowing when to use technology to simplify processes and when to step forward with a personal touch. For us, the future of hospitality lies in combining the best of both: innovative, seamless experiences delivered with the warmth and generosity that define Saudi hospitality.

Dining and wellness have become central to how a property creates a sense of place for guests. Drawing on your track record building standout food and spa concepts, how do these experiences anchor a residence and build a real community among guests and residents?

Dining and wellness are no longer simply amenities; they are essential to how people experience a property and connect with it over time. They help create a sense of place, foster meaningful connections, and contribute to the overall lifestyle experience that today's luxury travellers seek.

At Radisson Collection Residences Riyadh, this is reflected in our distinctive dining and wellness offering. Our two internationally recognised restaurant concepts, Emily's Brasserie and Obi Urban Sushi, bring unique culinary experiences to the property, creating vibrant social destinations for both short-stay guests and long-term residents. Beyond dining, The Boulevard serves as a central gathering space within the development, encouraging interaction, connection, and a genuine sense of community.

Wellness is equally important to the guest experience. The property is home to the first The Spa by Radisson Collection Residences, Riyadh, featuring a comprehensive wellness offering that includes a full-service spa, an exceptional gym facility, and an outdoor pool. These spaces are designed to support wellbeing while providing guests and residents with an environment where they can recharge, relax, and maintain their lifestyle routines.

Together, these experiences elevate the property beyond traditional accommodation. Whether staying for a few nights or several months, guests benefit from a lifestyle-led environment where dining, wellness, and community come together to create a truly distinctive luxury experience.

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Supporting Vision 2030 tourism goals

Vision 2030 sets ambitious targets for visitor numbers and tourism's contribution to the economy. How does a property like Radisson Collection Residences contribute to these goals — and what role does Riyadh play specifically?

Vision 2030 is transforming Saudi Arabia into one of the world's most dynamic tourism and business destinations, and hospitality has a central role to play in that journey. As the Kingdom attracts increasing numbers of business travellers’, investors, project teams, international talent, and leisure visitors, there is growing demand for accommodation that offers both flexibility and premium experiences.

Radisson Collection Residences Riyadh contributes to these goals by addressing the needs of a diverse and evolving visitor base. With options for both short and extended stays, the property caters to guests who may be visiting for a few days, several months, or as part of longer-term relocation and business projects. This flexibility is increasingly important as Saudi Arabia continues to attract international companies, major events, and large-scale developments.

Riyadh sits at the heart of this transformation. As the Kingdom's capital and principal business hub, it is driving much of the economic growth, investment activity, and international engagement associated with Vision 2030. The city is becoming a destination in its own right, supported by significant investments in infrastructure, culture, entertainment, and hospitality.

Properties such as Radisson Collection Residences, Riyadh, help strengthen the city's hospitality offering by providing a luxury experience that combines international standards, authentic local identity, and the flexibility required by today's global travellers. In doing so, they support Riyadh's ambition to position itself among the world's leading business and lifestyle destinations while contributing to the broader objectives of Vision 2030.

Beyond opening night, what legacy do you want this property to leave or create for Riyadh — and how do you reconcile the ambitions of a landmark luxury address with the responsible, sustainable operation that the Kingdom's long-term vision demands?

Our ambition for Radisson Collection Residences, Riyadh, to become a landmark that contributes to the city's long-term evolution rather than simply adding another luxury address to the market. We want the property to be recognised for setting new standards in luxury living and hospitality, combining exceptional service, distinctive experiences, and a strong connection to Riyadh's cultural identity.

As the brand's first property within the Kingdom's first Salmani architectural tower, we believe it has a unique opportunity to showcase how contemporary luxury can celebrate local heritage while meeting the expectations of today's global travellers. Our goal is to create a destination that remains relevant for years to come, one that becomes part of the city's story and reflects Riyadh's emergence as a world-class destination.

At the same time, long-term success must be built on responsible growth. Luxury and sustainability are no longer separate conversations; they are increasingly interconnected. This means operating efficiently, making thoughtful use of resources, supporting local talent and suppliers where possible, and creating experiences that deliver lasting value for guests, residents, the community, and the city. Ultimately, the legacy we hope to leave is one of excellence with purpose: a property that contributes to Riyadh's future, reflects the ambitions of Vision 2030, and demonstrates how world-class hospitality can be both distinctive and sustainable.

Mr.Firas2

Quick Fire Questions

What can we expect of Radisson Collection Residences?

A distinctive luxury experience that combines world-class hospitality, authentic Saudi identity, and the comfort and flexibility of contemporary living.

In your opinion, what is the one amenity no luxury address can do without?

Exceptional, intuitive, and highly personalised service that consistently anticipates and elevates every guest experience.

Saudi coffee or espresso?

Saudi coffee for culture and connection

Which detail do you hope a guest remembers most?

How naturally everything felt tailored to them, from the smallest gesture to the overall sense of effortless, thoughtful hospitality.

Best piece of advice you’d like to share for other working in hospitality?

Never lose sight that hospitality is ultimately about people, not processes, and that consistency, empathy, and attention to detail define true excellence.

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