Carlton Hotel

The Carlton Vignette Hotel in Al Khobar, designed by dwp | design worldwide partnership, is a transformative expression of contemporary hospitality grounded in cultural heritage. Once an emblem of industrial growth, Khobar is undergoing a quiet evolution—trading oilfields and industry for curated experiences and elegant design. The Carlton Vignette Hotel stands at the heart of this transformation, setting a new benchmark for luxury in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Part of the IHG Vignette Collection and rooted in a storied family legacy, the Carlton Al Moaibed Hotel has been reimagined with a design that balances tradition and modernity. dwp worked closely with the family to create a spatial narrative of understated sophistication, crafting interiors that feel both intuitively international and deeply connected to place. From custom furnishings to material selections that reference local textures and colors, every detail reinforces a sense of authenticity. Public spaces are immersive and fluid, designed to encourage social interaction and movement while maintaining a calming atmosphere. Guest rooms are havens of peace, enhanced by natural light, tactile materials, and smart technology, ensuring a personalised and serene experience. Sustainability was embedded from the outset, with eco-friendly finishes, energy-efficient systems, and green spaces such as rooftop gardens contributing to both environmental performance and aesthetic harmony. The hotel also celebrates storytelling through design. Local patterns and heritage elements are reinterpreted in contemporary ways, inviting guests on a journey through the region’s past and present. This thoughtful layering of culture and modern luxury reflects dwp’s vision of design as a catalyst for community and connection. The Carlton Vignette Hotel is more than a destination—it is a new chapter in Khobar’s story. A testament to refined design thinking, cultural sensitivity, and sustainable innovation, it positions Khobar confidently on the map for global travellers seeking authenticity and elevated hospitality.