KAFD HOTEL
Located in the heart of Riyadh’s dynamic King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the KAFD Conference Hotel is a bold redefinition of the business hospitality experience. Operated under Hilton’s Curio Collection, the hotel blends high-end luxury, cutting-edge design, and a future-forward approach to work and collaboration, tailored specifically for the region’s evolving business and cultural landscape.
Strategically positioned to connect directly with the Saudi Metro Line and adjacent Conference Centre, the hotel serves as a vital hub for international delegates, corporate travelers, and creative entrepreneurs alike. The architecture and interiors embrace a sleek, edgy aesthetic, balancing Saudi cultural references with contemporary global influences. Contrasting materials, sculptural forms, and layered textures create a visual narrative that feels both grounded in place and unmistakably modern.
Client
KAFD
Year
2024
Inside, the design celebrates flexibility and flow. Co-working lounges, private offices, and casual meeting pods are interwoven with more traditional hospitality spaces, fostering an environment where business blends seamlessly with lifestyle. The palette moves beyond the expected neutrals—introducing rich, sophisticated colours, bold graphic elements, and curated art installations that energize the guest experience while paying subtle homage to Saudi design motifs.
Guestrooms and suites are conceived as private sanctuaries, combining clean architectural lines with warm, tactile materials. Thoughtful details—integrated workstations, modular seating, and intuitive lighting—cater to the dual demands of productivity and relaxation. Public areas are activated with dynamic F&B offerings, wellness facilities, and social spaces designed for both formal gatherings and informal networking.
A striking architectural statement, the hotel’s crystal-like façade sets it apart as a landmark within the KAFD skyline. Designed as a series of angular, faceted glass planes, the exterior reflects and refracts light throughout the day, creating a dynamic visual identity that evolves with Riyadh’s desert sun. This gem-like geometry is both sculptural and functional—providing solar shading, privacy, and energy efficiency, while establishing a bold visual dialogue with the district’s modernist grid. The interplay of transparency and opacity gives the building a sense of lightness despite its urban scale, reinforcing its role as a contemporary icon.
