What is Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah?

Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah is a Selected hotel located in Medina, Saudi Arabia. It has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional hospitality and unique experience.

How many Michelin Keys does Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah have?

Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah has been awarded Selected by the Michelin Guide, indicating a very special stay.

Where is Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah located?

Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah is located in Medina, Saudi Arabia, in the Middle East region.

What makes a Selected hotel special?

Selected hotels provide very special stays with excellent service and a unique sense of place.

How do I book Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah?

You can view more details and booking information for Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah through the Michelin Guide website. Each Michelin Keys hotel offers a unique booking experience tailored to their guests.

Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah | Selected in Medina, Saudi Arabia

Name: Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah
Address: Medina, Middle East, Saudi Arabia
Rating: 4.5

Expert Review: Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah

Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah: A Comprehensive Review of a Michelin Key Selected Property

Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah in Medina, Saudi Arabia, stands as a highly regarded 5-star hotel, celebrated for its prime location and blend of French elegance with Arabian hospitality. As a Michelin Key Selected property, it is recognized for offering a notable and comfortable stay.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their experiences as "wonderful" or "exceptional". Review platforms show high ratings, with scores typically ranging from 8.7 to 9.5 out of 10 for overall satisfaction, staff, and location. The hotel is particularly appreciated by couples and families.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud the hotel's exceptional location, offering unparalleled proximity to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. The friendly and welcoming staff are another major highlight, with numerous mentions of their helpfulness and attentive service. The hotel's elegant and contemporary design, blending French-Arabic aesthetics, also contributes to its appeal. Furthermore, the hotel offers modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi throughout the property and convenient services like valet parking and a concierge.

3. Room Quality

The hotel boasts 469 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, designed by Soraya Sanders, featuring a sophisticated French-Arabic decor with caramel tones and Arabesque windows. Guests describe the rooms as bright, very clean, comfortable, and spotless, equipped with amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars, tea/coffee makers, and refrigerators. Many rooms offer stunning partial views of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, providing a serene atmosphere. Family suites are available for up to six guests, ensuring comfortable stays for larger groups.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah is a significant highlight. The on-site restaurant, Arabesque, serves a diverse array of fusion and international specialties, alongside authentic Saudi, Middle Eastern, Asian, and European classics. Guests can enjoy buffet options, live cooking stations, and themed Italian and Arabic nights. The breakfast, available as continental or a buffet Arabic spread, is frequently praised as excellent or superb. Afternoon tea is also offered, and 24-hour room service ensures convenience. All dining options are halal, reflecting the hotel's location and clientele. Some guests appreciate the magnificent views of the Great Mosque from the restaurant.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah receive consistent high praise. Guests frequently commend the team for being "amazing, kind, and extremely welcoming". Staff members are often described as helpful, professional, attentive, and accommodating. Several reviews highlight the warm welcome from bellboys, efficient cleaning services staff, and very welcoming receptionists. Personal mentions of staff going above and beyond, such as offering complimentary drinks while waiting for a room or providing complimentary upgrades, underscore the hotel's commitment to hospitality.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel's location is a standout feature, situated just a minute's walk from Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and approximately three minutes from the ladies' entrance, within a pedestrian area. This unparalleled proximity makes it ideal for pilgrims. Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah is also conveniently located near popular attractions such as the Old Bazaar, Mazaya Mall, and Al Baqia Cemetery. Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) is approximately 8.1 to 8.6 miles (13 to 13.6 km) away, with an average drive time of 15-25 minutes. The hotel offers both valet parking and paid self-parking options for guests.

7. Value & Pricing

Pricing for Sofitel Shahd Al Madinah can vary, with rooms potentially booked between $181 and $603. While some guests consider it to offer "luxury at an unbeatable value", others have noted that the high price sometimes does not align with the perceived value, especially if encountering service or maintenance issues. Low season rates, typically in August and September, might start around $150-$292 per night, while prices during peak seasons like Ramadan or Hajj can increase significantly, reaching up to SAR 1700 (approximately $450).

8. Common Complaints

Despite the generally positive feedback, some recurring issues have been noted by guests. These include occasional slow service, especially during busy periods. Elevator delays are also a common complaint, particularly during prayer times when many guests are moving simultaneously. While dining is largely praised, some guests have expressed minor concerns about food variety and quality. A few reviews have mentioned dated furnishings in some rooms and isolated incidents of unsatisfactory room cleanliness or water leakage in bathrooms.