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InterContinental Riyadh – A Disappointing Stay|As a loyal IHG customer, I’ve always valued the brand’s reliability, but my recent stay at the InterContinental Riyadh fell far short of expectations. Check-in was quick and efficient, and I received a room upgrade due to my membership status, which was a nice touch. Unfortunately, that’s where the positives ended.|The upgraded room felt dated and wasn’t very clean. The carpeting was old and visibly dirty, which was unappealing. While the bed was comfortable, the air conditioning was so noisy it kept me awake. The bathroom was a major letdown—outdated, with tepid shower water and barely any water pressure. Entertainment options were also lacking, with very few English TV channels available.|Half the hotel is under renovation, leaving most amenities closed. The gym was particularly disappointing: tiny (around 40 m²), with a dirty floor that made me reluctant to use a mat. There were no machines, just minimal equipment, and on two of the three days I visited, no towels or water were provided. I could literally touch the ceiling with my arms stretched!|The lobby restaurant was another low point. The food, especially the schnitzel, was overcooked and nearly inedible—easily the worst meal I had in Riyadh. On a brighter note, the staff at the entrance were very friendly and welcoming.|This hotel may have been grand once, but it now feels like a fading dame. Its location is inconvenient, too, as Riyadh’s growth is shifting north, making it at least a 30-minute drive to most business meetings. At the price they’re charging, it’s simply not worth it. I’d recommend opting for even a 4-star Holiday Inn in the city, which would likely offer a better experience. Note: I didn’t try the breakfast or buffet, which other reviews praise, but based on my stay, I won’t be returning.
