Every corner of this Marriott property tells the story of Saudi heritage.
Saudi Arabia has been experiencing a hospitality renaissance, with luxury properties popping up across the Kingdom. Among the shining stars in this hotel boom is Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jeddah which opened its doors in 2016. Despite being almost a decade old, this property celebrates Jeddah’s artistic soul.
Located on Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street in Al Andalus district, Assila is ideally placed in one of the Red Sea city’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. Once you step inside, it’s immediately evident that Assila is unique in its approach to hospitality. The lobby is a vibrant and welcoming space, ditching the typical muted tones for bold splashes of colour — think oranges, teals, and greens. Instead of a traditional red carpet, guests are greeted by a plush dark orchid-coloured floor stamped with The Luxury Collection’s signature.
First Impressions
To your left, the front desk stands in front of a stunning backdrop — a collection of vintage Saudi doors, a tribute to the Isa family’s ancestral homes. The aged doors, with hints of rust, create a raw yet authentic cultural aesthetic, setting the tone for your stay.
Spanning the lobby, the concierge area is backed with black-and-white photographs of Saudi family history. These walls are adorned with frames depicting vintage coffee pots, historic images, and personal moments from Saudi history and culture. Just across from it is an Instagrammable photo booth designed with Arabic calligraphy and floral motifs, perfect for snapping pictures that showcase the country’s rich heritage.
One corner of the lobby features a particular art installation called Journey of a Lifetime – a trolley piled high with vintage suitcases – which honours Lady Evelyn Cobbold, the first British woman to perform Hajj at the age of 65.
Luxurious Living
Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jeddah houses 304 luxury units and 94 residential apartments. The hotel famously hosted celebrities like Will Smith, and we were glad to check into one of their Deluxe Guest Rooms, which immediately impressed us with its thoughtful design and luxury edge.
The room has signature brown-panelled walls that transition into crisp white as you move further inside. A beautiful patterned black folding screen sits behind the 40-inch television, which rests on a console that doubles as a minibar. The room is bathed in natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. There’s plush seating near the windows featuring accents of orange, teal, and green, while two powder-blue chairs provide a cosy spot to relax and take in the sunlight.
The room’s decor seamlessly blends modernity and Arabian heritage, with a denim-blue plush headboard and artwork adorning the walls. The king-size bed is incredibly comfortable, and next to it, a long console table is perfect for lounging. The room also features a study table and a well-placed wardrobe, though it’s worth noting that the closet space is best suited for solo travellers or shorter stays.
The bathroom is beautifully designed, with pearl accents paying homage to the region’s pearling heritage. There’s a bathtub, a long single vanity, and a separate shower area, thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind — perfect for guests of all needs. In fact, Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jeddah goes the extra mile with inclusivity, featuring Braille signage throughout the property.
Destination Dining
Assila is home to a variety of restaurants. Twenty Four, the hotel’s all-day dining venue, serves a mix of international favourites with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual dining. For those in the mood for something a bit more exotic, Pampas delivers a taste of Argentina with its fiery grills. Coffee lovers will find their haven at Il Caffe, and sports enthusiasts can unwind at Kick Off, the hotel’s sports bar. Siddhartha Lounge awaits you on the rooftop, where you can enjoy an evening meal or a dip in the pool.
Beyond rooms and dining, Assila’s Acropora Spa is a haven of relaxation. It offers separate spa areas for men and women on separate floors. The property also features separate gyms equipped with the latest fitness gear.
The Verdict
But what truly makes Assila special is its dedication to art. It’s the only hotel in Saudi Arabia that also functions as an art gallery, with over 2,000 works of art by local Saudi artists displayed throughout the property. Every corner of the hotel reflects Jeddah’s growing status as a cultural and artistic hub.
The hip hotel is a love letter to Saudi heritage, with every detail meticulously curated to tell the story of the country’s past, present, and future. So if you’re after an artistic getaway, we’ve found just the spot.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for more information.
