Artal Al-Monawwarah Hotel

The smell was unbearable, there were flies and too many bugs, and the food was so unpleasant that my family couldn’t eat it. My grandma has been sneezing since morning. We were given only two cards, and the place wasn’t clean. The beds felt so worn out you could fall off them. From the entrance it looked okay, but once we got further inside, we regretted it. The service was bad, and I hate this hotel. We’ll never come back and I’d never recommend it. If I could give zero stars, I would.

It’s close to the ladies’ gate and works well for families. Last time I visited, though, I couldn’t find a room because most had been booked through Umrah packages. Prices have gone up a lot, nearly four times what they were last year.

The location is good, and the low price might make it worthwhile if you can overlook the condition of the place. The hotel is old, with ancient carpets and furniture that’s long past its useful life. The carpet looked so dirty I was afraid to step on it even in sandals, and the chairs were visibly dirty too. This isn’t the cleaners’ or housekeepers’ fault.

It’s an affordable option for someone on a middle-range budget, and Masjid Nabvi is only a two or three minute walk away. The rooms have the essentials, including complimentary tea supplies. Reception staff were professional, especially Mr. Sultan Al Harby, who was very friendly and cooperative.