Looking to keep cool by the pool in the soaring summer heat? We’ve got you covered.
Riyadh’s top hotels are opening their doors to swimmers with special day access rates, so there’s no need to check-in for the night to take advantage of those cooling waters. Slap on the sunscreen, grab a towel and make a splash at these pool days for men.
Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter
Tucked at the back of the hotel – but with plenty of sunlight hitting during the day – the pool at the Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter is junior olympic size, meaning you’ll have plenty of space to practice that butterfly stroke. More than a dozen shaded sun loungers around the edge of the water are the ideal spot to relax, with frequent waiter service keeping those energy levels topped up between dips. A smaller pool is available for the kids, and a giant screen is frequently wheeled out to show major sporting events making this the perfect place to perch for the day. Monthly memberships include benefits at the neighbouring Marriott Spa and are well worth the money if you’re planning on becoming a regular visitor.
Open daily, 6am-6pm. SAR300 (hourly), SAR500 (daily). Abdullah Alsahmi Street, Al Safarat, marriott.com (011 835 3000).
Burj Rafal Riyadh
The glittering Burj Rafal tower – one of Riyadh’s tallest at 70 floors – offers visitors a peaceful pool area on the fifth-floor outdoor terrace. If you’re looking for a bit of quiet while you go for a plunge, this daily deal should be top of your list – the hotel is often occupied by business travelers and conference guests, with very few using the fitness facilities. The pool itself is of a reasonable size, with the sun loungers shaded by a giant cabana structure and a separate seating area offering a spot to chill out between laps.
Open daily 1pm-5pm. SAR300 (1pm-5pm), SAR200 (3pm-5pm). King Fahad Road, Exit 4, As Sahafah District (011 511 7777).
InterContinental Hotel
There are two pools at the InterContinental Hotel in the city’s Al Mutamarat district – near to Olaya and the King Abdullah Financial District – with the curved outdoor area reserved for men. As a family-focused hotel, it’s not always the quietest for swimming, but if you’re looking for a day out with the kids then the day rate offer is well worth checking out. Once you’re done hitting the water, the Mondo Restaurant is right next to the pool and offers up a wide range of options from across the globe.
Open daily 10am-9pm. SAR180 (daily), SAR120 (kids 5-15), SAR75 (kids below 5).
Al Faisaliah Hotel
Al Faisaliah offers non-guests an hourly rate for use of its swimming and fitness facilities, with men gaining access to the fitness facilities and outdoor pool area. Lay back on a sun lounger and look straight up to see the towering hotel – one of Riyadh’s most iconic buildings – or hit the gym and try out one of the in-house Health Club’s many fitness machines. A separate women’s area with indoor pool and spa facilities is available, including monthly membership options.
Open daily 7am-11pm. SAR253 (hourly). King Fahad Road, Olaya, mandarinoriental.com (011 237 3000).
