Raffles Makkah Palace

The hotel offers a truly unforgettable experience, largely due to the breathtaking Kaaba view available from many rooms and the dedicated prayer room that also overlooks the holy site. Guests consistently praise the hotel's unparalleled location, the exceptional staff, the impeccable cleanliness, and the high quality of dining. The spacious and luxurious rooms further enhance the stay. This hotel is an ideal fit for pilgrims undertaking Umrah, offering convenience and a profound spiritual connection. Families and couples also find it highly suitable due to the comfortable accommodations and attentive service. To enhance your stay, consider confirming room views upon booking, as some "Haram view" rooms may offer partial perspectives, and plan elevator usage around prayer times to avoid potential crowds.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel is well-regarded for its convenient isolated elevators, which provide quick access to rooms and help manage crowds, particularly during prayer times. A significant amenity is the prayer room located on a higher floor, offering a perfect view of the Kaaba from its balcony, enhancing the spiritual experience for guests. While the hotel provides a luxurious environment, some guests noted limitations with in-room entertainment, specifically regarding the TV channels and the inability to connect personal devices for streaming. There were also mentions of a gym and spa facilities, contributing to the overall comfort and relaxation options available. Complimentary coffee and dates are a thoughtful touch offered throughout the day, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel's spotless cleanliness, noting a fresh and pleasant scent throughout the property. The rooms are generally described as spacious and luxurious, providing a comfortable and well-appointed environment for guests. Many reviews highlight the comfortable beds and high-quality linens, ensuring a restful stay. However, some guests found the beds to be either outdated or stiff, indicating a mixed experience. While most found the bathrooms to be large and well-equipped, a few mentioned issues with weak water pressure or showers malfunctioning, and some noted that bathroom walls could be cleaner. Room amenities like a coffee maker are appreciated, though some guests were surprised by the absence of an iron or steamer in certain room types. The air conditioning was sometimes reported as being too cold with difficult controls.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel receives high praise for its diverse and delicious food offerings, with many guests highlighting the excellent breakfast buffet. The food quality is consistently rated as very good, contributing significantly to a positive stay. Guests appreciate the variety available, though some noted that the dinner buffet and room service could be considered pricey. While the main restaurant generally provides a good experience, some guests observed that staff could become overwhelmed during peak hours, especially when the restaurant was crowded. There were also mixed reviews regarding the Creamerie cafe and Majlis Italian restaurant, with some finding them not meeting expectations, and a suggestion for more service staff in these areas. Complimentary hot beverages are a welcome touch.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's unparalleled location is a primary draw, offering direct and convenient access to the Haram. Guests appreciate being within very close proximity, making it easy to reach for prayer times. The presence of fast and dedicated lifts further enhances accessibility, minimizing travel time to and from the holy site. While the location is overwhelmingly praised for its convenience, a few guests mentioned initial difficulty in finding the hotel using navigation apps or noted that directions within the surrounding area could be clearer. Some also found the elevators connecting to the mall to be less efficient or somewhat outdated compared to the hotel's dedicated lifts, which could pose a minor inconvenience during busy periods.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives glowing reviews for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the exceptional service provided, noting that staff members are always willing to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and meaningful stay. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient, though a few guests experienced significant delays, indicating occasional coordination issues. Housekeeping staff are commended for their attentiveness and for maintaining high standards of cleanliness. The overall impression is one of professional and welcoming service, with many guests feeling well cared for throughout their visit, contributing significantly to their positive experience.

Additional Information
Guests appreciate the hotel's flexibility, with some receiving the benefit of a late check-out, which is particularly helpful for those with later travel plans. A unique and highly valued feature for many is the loudspeaker system in rooms, which is directly connected to the Imam’s microphone, allowing guests to hear the prayers clearly from their accommodations. While most experiences are positive, some guests reported a highly negative experience with the chauffeur service arranged through the hotel, citing unprofessional driving. Additionally, some loyal guests noted receiving rewards program benefits, such as room upgrades, enhancing their stay. There was a minor comment about the lobby bathroom needing a touch more cleanliness, but overall, these specific details contribute to the guest experience.