Novotel Riyadh Sahafa earns first Green Globe certification

By AI, Created 6:01 AM UTC, May 29, 2026, /AGP/ – Novotel Riyadh Sahafa in Riyadh has received its inaugural Green Globe certification after rolling out energy, water and waste-saving measures across the property. The certification highlights how sustainability practices are increasingly tied to hotel operations, guest experience and community engagement.

Why it matters: - Novotel Riyadh Sahafa’s first Green Globe certification puts sustainability at the center of the hotel’s operating model in Riyadh. - The certification signals lower resource use across energy, water and waste, which can cut operating costs and reduce environmental impact. - The hotel’s community programs show sustainability now extends beyond building operations into local engagement.

What happened: - Novotel Riyadh Sahafa was awarded its inaugural Green Globe certification. - The hotel is on Olaya Street in central Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between the business district and the international airport. - General Manager Hessa AlMazroa called the certification a milestone that reflects environmental responsibility, responsible operations, community engagement and sustainable guest experiences.

The details: - The hotel uses a comprehensive sustainability management plan to reduce its environmental footprint. - A 100% Guest Room Management System controls lighting and air conditioning in guest rooms. - Motion sensors control lighting in corridors, public toilets, emergency stairs and parking areas. - The building uses a white roof and white stones to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat, which reduces cooling costs. - Water-saving devices are installed throughout the property. - The hotel tracks energy, water and carbon footprint data monthly. - Guests can skip daily room cleaning and receive reward points through a Skip Room Cleaning program. - The hotel runs a towel and linen reuse program to save energy and water. - A zero-plastic policy is in place. - Reusable bottles can be refilled with filtered water. - Biodegradable straws are available on request. - Amenity dispensers have replaced individual plastic-packaged items in guest bathrooms, employee locker rooms, the spa and the fitness center. - The waste management system includes source segregation. - The hotel recycles aluminium, plastic, glass, paper and cardboard. - Novotel Riyadh Sahafa works with certified recycling entities. - Kitchen food waste is monitored with an internal high-tech system that reduces landfill waste and supports continuous improvement through measurable KPIs. - The hotel supports local community, cultural, sports and recreational activities. - In 2025, the hotel held an in-house event for Pink October to raise awareness of breast cancer and promote health education, early detection and community support. - Staff also participate in Earth Hour and volunteer during local blood donation drives.

Between the lines: - The certification suggests hotel sustainability is becoming more operationally detailed, with systems for energy controls, waste sorting and food-waste tracking rather than broad green branding. - The community work adds a social-impact layer that can strengthen the hotel’s standing with guests and local stakeholders.

What’s next: - Novotel Riyadh Sahafa is likely to continue measuring and improving its sustainability KPIs as part of the Green Globe framework. - The hotel’s ongoing programs suggest future efforts will focus on maintaining certification standards while expanding guest and community participation.

The bottom line: - Novotel Riyadh Sahafa’s first Green Globe certification reflects a hotel operation built around measurable environmental practices and local community involvement.