Here are my impressions and photos from my first night in Riyadh, which I chose to spend at the Riyadh Marriott:

Pros:

• Bed was comfortable - plush mattress, covers of good plushness for Middle East, pillows were a bit soft but layered as two was comfortable
• Room was clean and in good repair
• Nice welcome gift chocolates
• Lounge had extensive evening service with many desserts (all yummy) and some pretty good fish (they had many other savory options that I didn’t try)
• Asked to confirm, but no issue with late checkout

Neutral:

• Only upgraded to “Executive” Non-Smoking - I noticed suites available online before arrival, but perhaps they weren’t non-smoking?
• Breakfast seemingly offered in lounge or restaurant - they told me at check-in to do the restaurant and that it was included - large buffet - great omelet with goat cheese - but buffet foods all seemed like they had been sitting out for a bit too long - good mint chutney, though - okay machine coffee

Cons:

• Shower pressure, amount of water flow, and temperature stability all left something to be desired

For the right price, I would come back, but I have many properties left to try so shouldn’t make any conclusions now.

Photos (please expand the Spoiler tag):