Rocco Forte Hotels added a non-European property to its collection of landmark hotels with the opening of the Assila Hotel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The hotel’s central location in Jeddah’s business and shopping district make it ideal for groups looking for a European brand with Arabian traditions. A nod to the local culture, the property houses 2,000 pieces of artwork created by Saudi artists as well as 860 books that highlight the history of Saudi culture. The onsite Aubergine restaurant—one of five—serves up Arabic-Mediterranean cuisine while attendees can also order traditional Arabic mezze (or small plates) on the outdoor terrace overlooking the popular Tahlia Street below.
The 304-room property consists of two separate towers and offers 11 meeting rooms—all of which feature natural light. An onsite Rocco Forte Spa also adds to the experience for groups in search of relaxation. Spa treatments use products from Forte Organics, the hotel brand’s own beauty line using organic ingredients hand-picked from the hotel company’s Verdura Resort in Sicily, Italy.
Outside of the hotel, attendees can explore this historic city located next to the Red Sea. A quick drive to King Fahad Fountain, the world’s largest water fountain, can easily be managed between meetings. A visit at night to see the light show from 6 p.m. to midnight is especially worthwhile. The nearby Al Balad museum, which served as the British Legion’s headquarters in the early 1900s, and Al Tayibat City Museum, featuring four floors of exhibits about the city’s history, are also within a quick cab ride.
