Latest news with #NofaRiyadh
The National
13-07-2025
- The National
Saudi Arabia's answer to a safari retreat lies just one hour from Riyadh
If you reside in Riyadh, it may be hard to imagine that a quiet, secluded resort, complete with a safari park, lies just outside the city. But Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort, is but an hour's drive from the airport. Overlooking Nofa Wildlife Park, it promises majestic views alongside an experiential escape. The National checks into one of the resort's 57 private villas and bungalows to suss out the safari-style getaway for ourselves. The welcome Upon arrival, guests enter through a set of gigantic gates that safeguard the resort. Driving through what feels like a whole new world, I spot birds and wildlife among the lush palm tree groves, and instantly feel disconnected from life in the city. It's a feeling I get used to during my stay. Pulling into the main entrance, I am offered an iced drink as my bags are taken care of. During the few minutes it takes to check in, I admire the decor of the lobby, which is an ode to the safari style commonly seen in African countries, from the dark mahogany woods to motifs and artefacts. Soon enough, I'm being whisked away to my villa in a golf buggy – a necessity in this expansive resort. The villa Each accommodation option is a stand-alone. I check into a one-bedroom abode, but there are accommodation options with up to three bedrooms. It's dark by the time I get to mine, so I don't appreciate it fully until the next morning when the sunlight floods the room through sliding glass doors that open up from my bedroom to the pool and patio. Much like the lobby, there's an obvious effort to blend the villa into its surroundings with its focus on wood and prints. I appreciate the artworks and textures that adorn the space's nod to Africa, a continued motif around the hotel. I stay in a spacious and secluded terrace villa, complete with a private pool and garden. Inside, there is every modern comfort I could need, from an espresso machine and TV complete with the ability to stream, to a sleep-well pillow spray and a plush robe and slippers. The scene The resort's primary draw is its nature and connection to wildlife, with an abundance of greenery. Despite being in the middle of the desert, the resort is surrounded by trees. It is connected to the surrounding safari park where lions, giraffes, elephants, zebras, oryx and more roam. There are also numerous leisure activities to enjoy, including horse riding and an 18-hole golf course. As well as private pools and the communal hotel pool, Nofa is home to two freshwater lakes where you can go kayaking and paddleboarding. Staff say the resort is a popular wedding destination too, with ballrooms equipped for up to 500 guests. Spa and wellness For adults seeking a relaxing break, visiting the spa is a must. It boasts a vast menu that weaves in traditional Arabian beauty and wellness methods. A standout has to be the therapeutic salt room, which is not only cleansing for the skin, but can also aid respiratory issues. Family-friendly factor While I don't travel with children, it's worth noting how kid-friendly this resort is. There is a children's adventure park, a cinema, bowling and outdoor pools. The neighbourhood The resort is a stand-alone destination, meaning it's not one to book if you're planning to explore beyond the property's borders. But for me, it means I am able to truly unplug from busy city life. For those travelling in from afar, reaching Riyadh takes about an hour. As the Saudi capital, the city is filled with restaurants, malls and entertainment attractions, which make for a busy day out. Insider tip Although it took me just an hour to get from the airport to the hotel, the return journey was much longer due to rush hour traffic (almost three hours). Keep this in mind when booking flights and choosing your checkout time. The verdict An excellent spot for families with children. The safari experience is a whole new world where you can see and learn about animals unfamiliar to the kingdom, with experts on hand to answer questions and make the interactive experiences as engaging as possible. Just be sure to book activities in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak season. The bottom line Rates for rooms begin at 1,912 Saudi riyals ($510) per night, check-in is from 3pm and check-out is at noon.
Hospitality Net
12-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Ibrahim Tabet has been appointed Executive Chef at Nofa Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Resort
Nofa Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Resort, has announced the appointment of Ibrahim Tabet as its new Executive Chef, ushering in a bold new culinary chapter for the luxury destination nestled within the Arabian savannah. With over 18 years of experience in some of the region's most prestigious kitchens, Tabet's culinary journey has spanned Four Seasons Damascus, The Ritz-Carlton KSA, Art Rotana Bahrain, and JW Marriott Riyadh. His reputation was solidified at The Ritz-Carlton, where he launched the first Saudi Heritage Dessert Tasting Menu, an initiative that not only celebrated local ingredients but also significantly boosted dessert sales. His most recent leadership role with FAS Hospitality marked his evolution into a strategic culinary leader, spearheading the transformation of underperforming outlets, negotiating farm-direct supply chains, and introducing sustainable innovations like zero-waste iftars. Now at the helm of Nofa Riyadh's culinary operations, Chef Tabet oversees all dining experiences across the resort, from destination restaurants and banqueting to in-villa dining and the resort's homegrown farm. More than just an operational lead, he sees his role as a curator of stories, each dish a narrative shaped by local soil, seasonal rhythms, and global inspiration. A strong believer in the power of food to bring people together, Tabet leads with empathy and excellence, cultivating multicultural kitchen teams through what he calls "tasting diplomacy," collaborative recipe R&D that bridges backgrounds and sparks innovation. His vision for Nofa is ambitious: to turn the resort into Saudi Arabia's most iconic culinary destination, where ingredients are sourced from its own land, where guests embark on immersive gastronomic journeys from field to plate, and where Saudi traditions are reimagined for international recognition. Outside the kitchen, Ibrahim is passionate about pursuits that challenge both his creativity and his technical curiosity. A self-taught skateboarder, he rediscovered his childhood love for skating during the pandemic. What started as a way to pass the time has since become his ultimate form of stress relief, bringing him clarity and rhythm along coastal promenades and desert paths. He's also deeply fascinated by the science of meat maturation, spending hours experimenting with flavour development and preservation techniques that reflect his meticulous approach to both cuisine and craft. Whether plating a showstopping soufflé or carving into a dry-aged ribeye, Ibrahim Tabet brings a signature blend of precision, purpose, and passion, anchoring Nofa Riyadh's kitchens in authenticity, artistry, and the spirit of Saudi terroir.
Hospitality Net
09-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Daaliah Meyer has been appointed Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications at Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort, and Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence, Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter
With a background in neuropsychology and a career forged at the intersection of creativity, data, and human behavior, Daaliah Meyer brings a rare and powerful perspective to hospitality marketing. Recently appointed as Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications for Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort, and Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence, Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter, she is on a mission to transform these properties into category-defining destinations in the Kingdom. Daaliah began her career in Cape Town, launching her own marketing agency that handled everything from photoshoot styling to full-scale digital campaigns for local fashion and food brands. Her entrepreneurial grit and ability to scale creative solutions quickly led her into the corporate space—joining regional tech brand The Entertainer, where she rose through the ranks from Social Media Manager to KSA Market Lead in under two years. There, she led market expansions, launched high-performing campaigns, and built the company's first fully Saudi creative team. Now at the Radisson Hotel Group, Daaliah is driven by a desire to blend global standards with authentic local storytelling. Her vision for Nofa Riyadh is to position it as Saudi Arabia's most iconic luxury resort—where safari adventures meet five-star sophistication. Simultaneously, she aims to solidify Radisson Blu Diplomatic Quarter as the premier address for business travel in Riyadh. Her strategic style is deeply collaborative, with a values-first approach rooted in loyalty, creativity, and a belief that "no idea is a bad idea." Whether mentoring Saudi talent, aligning with F&B teams on guest-driven activations, or turning dismissed concepts into revenue-generating campaigns, Daaliah is known for building not just marketing strategies, but momentum. Outside of work, Daaliah is passionate about pursuits that blend creativity, wellness, and self-expression. A dedicated Pilates enthusiast, she finds strength and clarity through movement, while her interest in skincare and holistic living reflects her belief in the power of everyday rituals. Her love of travel fuels her marketing perspective, as she draws inspiration from diverse cultures and hospitality styles. A visual storyteller at heart, she enjoys photography and short-form content creation, and sees fashion as both a creative outlet and a lens into cultural dialogue. These passions, she says,"keep me curious, grounded, and creatively sharp—qualities that shape the way I lead and connect." Her appointment marks another step forward in Radisson Hotel Group's commitment to empowering women in leadership and fostering innovative, guest-centric hospitality across the region. With ambitions to expand her impact across key properties in the Kingdom, Daaliah remains grounded in what matters most: meaningful experiences, empowered teams, and storytelling that resonates.
Syyaha
16-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Syyaha
Break Your Fast in the Heart of Riyadh's Desert Oasis
Nofa Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Resort, brings the magic of Ramadan to life within its luxurious African safari-inspired retreat. Riyadh, 16th March, 2025 – This Ramadan, escape the city and experience a serene Iftar at Nofa Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Resort. Indulge in a feast of traditional and international flavors, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Whether dining under the stars with a view of the lake or enjoying a family-friendly Iftar with activities, Nofa Riyadh offers an unforgettable Ramadan experience. Iftar at the Entertainment Center Iftar at the Entertainment Center starts at SAR299, serving up a lavish spread as vibrant as its African-inspired interiors. Indulge in a feast of tradition and global flavors, featuring signature dishes like authentic Seleeg, Gursan, Jareesh , and Kabsa , alongside slow-cooked lamb ouzi, Warak Enab , creamy kunafa, and refreshing juices such as tamarind and jallab . From Italian pastas and wood-fired pizzas to oriental mezze, sushi, and more, this Iftar brings together the best of flavors from around the world. For those looking to elevate their evening, guests can enjoy Iftar with activities for SAR375 or add a hookah experience for SAR475. Lakeside Iftar For a more exclusive dining affair, guests can break their fast and unwind with stunning waterfront views by the lake, priced at SAR399. Set against the serene backdrop of the lake and the resort's lush landscapes, this Iftar offers a truly soulful and immersive escape. Those looking to add a touch of adventure can opt for Iftar with activities at SAR499, while the ultimate experience, complete with hookah under the open sky—is available for SAR599. Families can also treat their little ones to a magical Ramadan evening with the special Kids' Iftar, priced at SAR199 for ages 6 to 11. This includes access to exciting activities designed just for them, ensuring an unforgettable night of fun and feasting in the heart of nature. Ramadan Retreat at Nofa Riyadh For those looking to turn their Iftar into a full retreat, Nofa Riyadh's luxurious villas offer the perfect escape. Guests can enjoy 30% off their stay from March 1-28, 2025, using the promo code NRR25. Located at Nofa Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Resort, this Ramadan experience promises tranquility, indulgence, and unforgettable moments under the stars. To book, call +966 (0) 597512124. Get social: @RadissonCollectionRiyadh
