If you’re a woman and you want to go for a swim in Riyadh, it can be tough to find female-only pools. So we’ve rounded up the best pools for women in Riyadh.
While locals will book a private chalet or go to a friend’s home with a pool, expats may find it hard to dip their toes into the pool scene. If you haven’t got an invitation to a pool party yet, we’re here to help you find the next best thing.
Remember: when checking out the pools for women in Riyadh, ask about the dress code in advance as some places request that you cover your legs and head, so you may need to bring a swimming cap and leggings.
Goggles at the ready, these are the best pools for women in Riyadh
Al Aghar Equestrian Club
While the name may make you think it’s all about horses here, it also has a popular pool that is causing a splash in the Diplomatic Quarter.
The Bedouin-style space gives it a relaxed vibe, while the pool can be rented for private events by the hour. There are separate days for men, women and families.
Open Sat-Thu 8am-11.30am, 4pm-8pm, Fri 4pm-8pm. 2894 Farah, Al Safarat, alagharclub.com/en/programs.aspx (011 481 2200).
Al Faisaliah Spa by ESPA
If you want to go to a pool that only grants access to women, one of the best ways is to visit a ladies-only spa and here you can whip on your bikini. The 13-metre long pool includes a swan neck fountain massage, vitality whirlpool and heated loungers.
Admire the pretty calligraphy on the walls, and then head to the tea lounge for a post-swim drink. If you want more privacy, the imperial spa suite has its own hydrotherapy bath.
To enjoy the facilities, you must book a treatment that lasts at least one hour, sign up for a membership or pay SAR253 for one hour access. One of the best swimming pools for women in Riyadh.
Open daily 7am-11pm. King Fahd Road, Al Olaya, 12212, alfaisaliahspa.com (011 273 3000).
Al Manahil Ladies Swimming Club
In the Diplomatic Quarter, you’ll find this ladies-only spa and sports centre that is popular with expats. Founded in 1990, it has become a bit of an institution. This isn’t the place to go and relax, instead you’ll be doing laps at this long pool.
The club offers day passes and swimming lessons, so you can work on those backstrokes. Note: you must wear swimming caps, goggles and leggings made of Lycra, jersey or nylon stretch over your costume in order to use this swimming pool in Riyadh.
Open Sat-Thu 10am-9pm, Fri 2pm-9pm. Ibn Zahr Street, Al Safarat, Diplomatic Square, almanahil.com.sa (011 488 1069).
Al Multaka Ladies Fitness Centre
Another sure-fire way to access a ladies-only pool is by joining a ladies-only gym with excellent facilities. Al Multaka is more than just a gym – it has a spa, salon, gym and restaurant. Blow-dry after a swim, anyone?
You can wear what you like, but you can’t just laze around, as you have to book a swimming class – these currently take place every day, except for Saturdays.
Come for the gigantic pool and stay for the afternoon tea. One of the best swimming pool for women in Riyadh, and a great place to hang out after, too.
Open daily 9am-10pm. Hittin, 13513 instagram.com/almultaka (011 478 3388).
Burj Rafal
When only luxury will do, book a day pass at Burj Rafal Spa, which is one of the best pools for women in Riyadh. What makes this different to many hotel pools is that you don’t have to wait for the female-only timings.
The spa boasts separate pools for men and women, so you can indulge in the indoor plunge pools or catch some rays in the outdoor swimming pool.
To gain access, you must be a hotel guest or pay SAR150 for one hour. One of the best swimming pools in Riyadh, and one of the most opulent haunts, too.
Open daily 8am-6pm. King Fahd Road, Sahafah District, marriott.com (011 511 7775).
