Stepping into a traditional Arabic guesthouse is like embarking on a journey through history. These hidden gems, often found in the heart of the Middle East, provide an authentic glimpse into the region’s rich heritage, offering travellers a unique and immersive experience.
Unlike modern hotels, Arabic guesthouses, known as “riads” in Morocco, “beits” in Lebanon and Jordan, and “majlis” in the Gulf, reflect the architectural grandeur, hospitality, and cultural legacy of their respective regions.
Whether you are exploring the bustling souks of Marrakech, the winding alleys of Old Dubai, or the historical quarters of Jeddah, staying in a traditional guesthouse transports you to a bygone era.
Architectural history
Traditional Arabic guesthouses are known for their intricate designs, which often blends Islamic, Persian, and Andalusian influences. They are usually built around a central courtyard, an architectural feature designed to provide privacy, ventilation, and a tranquil escape from the harsh desert climate. The courtyards often include lush gardens, intricate fountains, and seating areas adorned with colourful mosaic tiles, creating an oasis of serenity.
In Morocco, riads are famous for their zellige tilework, carved wooden doors, and painted ceilings. In the Lebanon and Jordan, guesthouses often feature stone arches, thick walls, and elaborate mashrabiya (wooden latticework) screens that filter sunlight while maintaining airflow.
Meanwhile, in the Arabian Peninsula, guesthouses are built from coral stone or mudbrick, with wind towers (barjeel) acting as natural cooling systems, a sustainable design perfected centuries ago.
The essence of Arabic hospitality
Hospitality is at the core of Arabic culture, and traditional guesthouses embody this spirit. It dates back to a time when hospitality was not just a virtue but a way of life. In many parts of the Arab world, travellers and strangers were welcomed with open arms, food, and shelter. These guesthouses were built to embody the essence of “karam”, the Arabic word for generosity.
Even today, guests are often welcomed with a serving of dates and Arabic coffee (gahwa), a gesture symbolising generosity and warmth. Unlike chain hotels, these guesthouses are often family-run, offering a more personal and intimate experience.
Visitors can expect homemade meals prepared with time-honoured recipes, featuring delicacies such as slow-cooked lamb with saffron-infused rice, fragrant stews, and an array of mezze (small appetizers). In some places, guests are invited to participate in cooking classes, learning how to prepare dishes like Jordanian mansaf, Emirati machbous, or Lebanese kibbeh.
Exploring the Middle East through its guesthouses
Morocco: The riads of Marrakech and Fez
Marrakech and Fez are home to some of the most breathtaking riads, many of which have been restored to preserve their original history. Staying in a riad means waking up to the scent of fresh mint tea, the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard, and the sight of ornate plasterwork and traditional Berber rugs. Some of the most famous riads date back to the Saadian and Almoravid dynasties, offering an intimate stay within the city’s ancient medinas.
Lebanon: Beit guesthouses
In Lebanon, beit guesthouses showcase Ottoman and Mamluk influences, with high ceilings, stained glass windows, and spacious salons decorated with Damascene furniture. Many of these guesthouses are located in historical cities like Beirut, where they serve as cultural hubs, hosting poetry readings, musical performances, and traditional storytelling sessions.
The Arabian Gulf: Majlis and courtyard houses
In the Gulf region, guesthouses reflect the desert environment and Bedouin traditions. The majlis, a communal space for hosting guests, plays a central role in these homes. Cities like Dubai, Doha, and Muscat have revived old wind-tower houses into boutique guesthouses, blending modern comfort with traditional aesthetics. These spaces often feature palm-frond roofs, gypsum carvings, and courtyards scented with burning oud.
Hijaz: Historical guesthouses of Jeddah and Medina
In Saudi Arabia’s Hijaz region, particularly in Jeddah’s Al-Balad district, centuries-old coral stone houses have been transformed into guesthouses, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich trading history. These homes feature intricate wooden balconies (rawasheen), reflecting a blend of Indian, Ottoman, and Arabian influences. Staying in one of these guesthouses allows travellers to experience Saudi Arabia’s past while being in proximity to its vibrant souks and historic mosques.
Why choose a traditional guesthouse?
Opting for a traditional Arabic guesthouse over a contemporary hotel offers an unparalleled experience. These accommodations provide a direct connection to local culture, a deeper understanding of regional history, and an opportunity to engage with the warm hospitality of the Middle East.
Many of these guesthouses also support heritage preservation efforts, ensuring that architectural masterpieces and cultural traditions continue to thrive.
For travellers seeking authenticity, serenity, and a rich cultural experience, staying in a traditional Arabic guesthouse is not just an accommodation choice, it’s a journey through time.
Also read: Middle East stopover programs: turn your next layover into a mini holiday
