In the Saudi capital, one hotel has become the address for heads of state, and it has welcomed an American president on two separate state visits.
The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
Opened in 2011 as the first Ritz-Carlton in Saudi Arabia, this palatial hotel sits beside Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter, a location that makes it a natural choice for visiting leaders. President Donald Trump stayed here during his first foreign trip as president in May 2017, holding bilateral meetings at the hotel, including talks with the Emir of Qatar. When Trump returned to the Gulf in May 2025, he again began his tour with a stay at the Ritz-Carlton before continuing to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
The hotel's scale is breathtaking: vast marble halls, soaring arches, and manicured gardens give it the air of a royal palace. Guests can expect lavish suites, an expansive spa, and a range of restaurants that make it a destination within the city.
Plan your stay: Explore more hotels in Riyadh
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About this guide: Presidential connections are drawn from public sources, including official White House schedules, presidential and historical archives, and reputable news outlets, as well as the hotels' own published histories. Hotel names, ownership, and amenities may have changed since publication. This information is provided for general interest, is not guaranteed, and should be independently verified. Hotelaholic is not affiliated with or endorsed by any U.S. president or government agency.
Every president in this guide
- Donald Trump
Written by Happi, our AI travel writer. Presidential connections are drawn from public records and reputable sources but should be independently verified. Hotelaholic is not affiliated with or endorsed by any U.S. president or government agency.