Welcome to Riyadh
Furnishing a Rustic style property in Saudi Arabia for Airbnb hosting comes with its own unique set of challenges. Airbnb hosts often grapple with sourcing traditional rustic pieces that maintain authenticity while ensuring the comfort of their guests.
Our local culture is heavily influenced by Islamic art and architecture, making it difficult to perfectly blend the rustic style with Saudi traditional design aesthetics. Coupling this with issues of space optimization, functionality, weather adaptability for particularly hot weather and stringent local regulations, hosts find themselves in a web of confusion and hassle.
With many years of professional expertise as an Airbnb host advisor, I have developed a detailed list of amenities to overcome these challenges. This comprehensive guide reflects the culmination of experience, research and understanding of both the rustic style and Saudi Arabian culture.
It will serve as a significant resource in simplifying your decision-making process, ensuring you create attractive rustic interiors that appeal to the global Airbnb community without losing the charm of local traditions.
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bathroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | First Aid Kit | Must Have | 1 per bathroom | Keeping safety in mind, it's essential to have basic first aid supplies available. | The kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, etc. |
| 2 | Shampoo | Must Have | 1 per guest | Ensure the shampoo is suitable for all hair types. | Organic, Sulfate-free, Essential oils-based shampoo. Brands like Aveeno or Shea Moisture. |
| 3 | Hand Soap | Must Have | 1 per sink | Instrumental in maintaining hygiene and cleanliness. | Organic, Scented Soaps of rustic feel. Brands like Mrs. Meyer's or Method. |
| 4 | Toilet Paper | Must Have | 2 to 4 rolls per guest | Ensure it's 2-ply or better, hypoallergenic options may be appreciated by some guests. | Biodegradable, Unscented, Septic safe brands like Charmin or Scott |
| 5 | Conditioner | Must Have | 1 per guest | Ensure the conditioner is suitable for all hair types. | Organic, Sulfate-free, Essential oils-based conditioner. Brands like Aveeno or Shea Moisture. |
| 6 | Shower Gel | Must Have | 1 per guest | Consider hypoallergenic options. | Organic, Scented Shower Gel. Brands like Original Source or Dove. |
| 7 | Bath and Hand Towels | Must Have | 2 sets per guest | Ensure they are soft and highly absorbent. | 100% Cotton or Bamboo towels, in earthy tones to fit the rustic theme. |
| 8 | Bathmat | Must Have | 1 per bathroom | Ensure it's slip-resistant and easy to wash. | Cotton or Bamboo bathmat in a rustic color scheme. |
| 9 | Hair Dryer | Must Have | 1 per bathroom | Not every guest will use this, but many will appreciate having the option. | Go for brands like Conair or Remington, with multiple heat settings. |
| 10 | Bidet Spray (Shattaf) | Must Have | 1 per toilet | Being in Saudi Arabia, this is a necessary item as it is commonly used by locals and visitors alike. | Ensure it's easy to use and has good water pressure. |
| 11 | Shower Curtain | Must Have | 1 per shower | Should be waterproof and easy to wash. If providing a liner, separate from the curtain, both are needed. | Rustic-themed shower curtain to match the overall aesthetic. |
| 12 | Trash Can | Must Have | 1 per bathroom | Should have a lid and be easy to empty. | A small bin made of rustic materials, like wood or metal. |
| 13 | Plunger | Must Have | 1 per bathroom | In case of toilet clogs, essential for guest convenience and comfort. | Any standard plunger will do. Should be kept in an easily accessible location. |
| 14 | Toilet Brush | Must Have | 1 per toilet | For keeping toilet clean. | Any standard toilet brush with a holder for hygiene. Should match the aesthetic of the bathroom. |
| 15 | Air Freshener | Optional | 1 per bathroom | This can help keep the bathroom smelling clean and fresh. | Light, natural scents that fit the rustic theme. |
| 16 | Toothbrush | Optional | 1 per guest | Guests often forget to export our toothbrushes, so it's a nice touch to have these available. | Medium bristle **toothbrushes**, consider eco-friendly options like **bamboo toothbrushes**. |
| 17 | Toothpaste | Optional | 1 per guest | It is a nice gesture to provide toothpaste. | Any popular brand like Colgate or Sensodyne, consider a sensitive-teeth option. |
| 18 | Spare Toilet Paper Holder | Optional | 1 per bathroom | Keeps spare rolls tidy and accessible. | Wooden or metal to fit the rustic theme. |
| 19 | Vanity Kit | Optional | 1 per guest | Could include items like Q-tips, cotton pads, nail file etc. | Should fit the rustic theme, consider providing in a small burlap or linen bag. |
| 20 | Bathrobes | Optional | 1 per guest | Adds to the luxury feel of the property. Be sure to clean and change between guests. | Thick, plush robes in neutral colors that fit the rustic theme. |
| 21 | Slippers | Optional | 1 pair per guest | Guests may appreciate these, especially in colder months. | Disposable or washable slippers, in a neutral color. |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bedroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mattress | Must Have | 1 per bed | Comfort is key, and a good mattress is critical | Memory foam or spring mattress |
| 2 | Comfortable Bed | Must Have | 1 per bedroom | Select a quality bed that suits the rustic style | Wooden bed frames |
| 3 | Bed Sheets set | Must Have | 2 per bed | Should be comfortable, clean, and rustic style | Cotton sheets in earthy tones. |
| 4 | Pillows | Must Have | 2 per guest | Provide both firm and soft pillows | Memory foam or down feather pillows |
| 5 | Air Conditioner & Heater | Must Have | 1 per bedroom | Consider the seasonal temperature differences | Quiet, efficient models |
| 6 | Duvet/Comforter | Must Have | 1 per bed | Season-appropriate; have both heavy and light options available | Microfiber or down duvet |
| 7 | Side Table | Must Have | 1-2 per bed | Visitors will appreciate somewhere to place their belongings | Wooden, rustic styled side table |
| 8 | Hangers | Must Have | At least 6-8 per guest | For hanging clothes | Wooden or rustic styled hangers |
| 9 | Wardrobe | Must Have | 1 per bedroom | Should offer enough storage | Wooden rustic design wardrobe |
| 10 | Curtains | Must Have | Appropriate for the window size | Blend with rustic décor, able to block out light | Thick curtains with rustic prints or plain earthy tones |
| 11 | Table Lamp | Must Have | 1 per side table | For evening reading or subtle night light | Vintage or rustic style lamps |
| 12 | Bedside Water Carafe & Glass | Optional | 1 per guest | For guest convenience | Glass or rustic-themed ceramic |
| 13 | Blanket | Optional | 1 per bed | Extra layer of warmth for cooler nights | Knitted or fleece blankets |
| 14 | Rug | Optional | 1-2 per bedroom | Warm underfoot in cooler months, rustic style | Persian, jute or braided rugs |
| 15 | Chair | Optional | 1 per bedroom | Can provide added functionality and style | Rustic style wooden or upholstered chair |
| 16 | Full Length Mirror | Optional | 1 per bedroom | Helpful for guests to prepare for their day | Wooden or metal-framed rustic mirror |
| 17 | Artwork | Optional | Dependent on room size | Should complement rustic theme | Rustic or vintage prints or local artworks |
| 18 | Reading Material | Optional | Dependent on guest preferences | Provide local travel guidebooks or rustic-related literature | Books with rustic charm or local relevance |
| 19 | Clock | Optional | 1 per bedroom | So guests can easily tell the time | Rustic or vintage style clock |
| 20 | Dresser | Optional | 1 per bedroom | For guests to unpack their things | Wooden, rustic style dresser |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Kitchen
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Strainer | Must Have | 1 | Used in a variety of cooking tasks | Stainless steel or copper for rustic feel |
| 2 | Grater | Must Have | 1 | For cheese, vegetables and more | Wooden handle and stainless steel for rustic look. |
| 3 | Cutting Board | Must Have | 1 | Wooden style to match the overall aesthetic | Choose a thick, robust wooden board. |
| 4 | Corkscrew | Must Have | 1 | Important for guests who enjoy wine | Wooden handle for rustic aesthetic. |
| 5 | Microwave | Must Have | 1 | Essential for quick heating of meals | Stainless steel matches rustic aesthetic. |
| 6 | Electric Kettle | Must Have | 1 | Hot water needed all day for assorted beverages | Stainless steel works well with rustic aesthetics |
| 7 | Mixing Bowls | Must Have | Set of 3 (small, medium, large) | Used in various cooking tasks | Ceramic or wooden bowls for rustic feel. |
| 8 | Tea Set | Must Have | 1 | Many guests appreciate being able to have tea | Choose a set that matches the overall rustic style. |
| 9 | Arabic Coffee Pot (Dallah) | Must Have | 1 | Essential for Arabic coffee service | Brass or silver pot with traditional design |
| 10 | Dinnerware | Must Have | 1 set per guest | Include plates, bowls, glasses, and mugs | Stoneware or earthenware for a rustic feel. |
| 11 | Cutlery | Must Have | 1 set per guest | Include forks, knives, and spoons | Stainless steel with wood handle detailing for a rustic look. |
| 12 | Cooking Utensils | Must Have | 1 Set | Include spatula, tongs, whisk, ladles, and wooden spoons | Wooden or cast iron utensils for rustic feel |
| 13 | Cookware Set | Must Have | 1 set | Include pots, pans, and a teakettle | Cast iron or copper to match rustic aesthetic. |
| 14 | Trash Can | Must Have | 1 | Needed for managing waste | Choose a model that matches the rustic decor, like a wooden or vintage metal trash bin. |
| 15 | Gas Stove | Must Have | 1 | Consider local safety regulations when installing | A Traditional or vintage style 4-burner stove |
| 16 | Refrigerator | Must Have | 1 | A refrigerator with sufficient space for the guest’s length of stay | Energy-efficient, silver-toned or stainless steel to match the rustic style. |
| 17 | Oven | Optional | 1 | Depends on how much your guests will be cooking | Look for an oven that blends in with the rustic aesthetic. |
| 18 | Toaster | Optional | 1 | Most guests appreciate a toaster for quick breakfast prep | Stainless steel toaster for rustic charm. |
| 19 | Rice Cooker | Optional | 1 | Yet a common kitchen appliance in many Asian households | A simple rice cooker should suffice. |
| 20 | Blender | Optional | 1 | For guests who might want to make smoothies or have dietary restrictions | Simple, robust models |
| 21 | Sandwich Maker | Optional | 1 | For guests who prefer a quick snack | Choose a simple, easy-to-use model |
| 22 | Dishwasher | Optional | 1 | Hand washing is common in rural areas, but a dishwasher can provide convenience for longer stays | A dishwasher with a rustic or vintage look is ideal. |
| 23 | Baking Tray | Optional | 1 or 2 | For guests who might want to bake | Non-stick surface, rustic look |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Living Room
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Air Conditioner | Must Have | 1-2 | Due to the high temperature in Saudi Arabia, AC is a must | Reliable brands with energy-efficient models: ENERGY STAR |
| 2 | WiFi Router | Must Have | 1 | Strong and steady WiFi is crucial for most guests | Reliable brand with sufficient coverage for the entire property |
| 3 | Throw Pillows | Must Have | 4-6 | Can add comfort and style to the sofa | Neutral-colored throw pillows, perhaps with Arabian patterns. |
| 4 | Curtains/Window treatments | Must Have | As per the number of windows | Should offer privacy and control over the amount of light in the room | Arabesque-patterned curtains with neutral colours |
| 5 | Lamp Shades | Must Have | 2-3 | Lighting can dramatically affect the ambience in a room | Arabesque or rustic lampshades |
| 6 | TV Stand | Must Have | 1 | Must be sturdy and able to accommodate the TV's weight | Rustic wooden TV stand; consider options with additional storage |
| 7 | TV | Must Have | 1 | Should be a smart TV to allow guests to connect their streaming services | Any trusted brand with smart TV capabilities |
| 8 | Rug | Must Have | 1 | Should complement the overall color scheme of the room | Sizeable rustic or arabian style rug |
| 9 | Coffee Table | Must Have | 1 | Should be sturdy and match the rustic decor style | Rustic wooden coffee table, possibly with wrought iron accents. |
| 10 | Sofa | Must Have | 1 | Should comfortably seat at least 4 guests | Rustic wooden framed sofa with neutral-colored fabric upholstery |
| 11 | Blanket | Optional | 1 | Guests might appreciate a cozy blanket while lounging | Warm, cozy, and rustic-looking throw blanket. |
| 12 | Coasters | Optional | 4-6 | For use with hot or cold beverages to protect table surface | Rustic or Arabian-style coasters |
| 13 | Indoor Plants | Optional | 1-2 | Can add a touch of freshness to the room | Drought-tolerant indoor plants |
| 14 | Cushioned Stools | Optional | 1-2 | Additional seating options that can also serve as footrests | Rustic wooden stools with padded tops. |
| 15 | Candles | Optional | 2-3 | Can add ambiance and a pleasant scent to the room | Scented candles with rustic or arabian holders |
| 16 | Bookshelf | Optional | 1 | Could hold travel or Arabic literature for guests to read | Rustic wooden bookshelf |
| 17 | Wall Decor | Optional | 2-3 | Arabian or rustic wall decor can add character to the room | Rustic wall arts, Arabian brass plaques, rustic clock, mirror with rustic frame |
| 18 | Side Tables | Optional | 1-2 | If space allows, a side table next to the sofa or armchairs can be handy for guests | Rustic wooden side table, possibly with wrought iron accents. |
| 19 | Armchairs | Optional | 1-2 | Match the style and fabric of the sofa | Rustic wooden armchairs with neutral-colored fabric upholstery |
| 20 | Books | Optional | 5-10 | Books related to Saudi Arabia or travel-related topics could be interesting for guests | Various genres, translations of famous Arabic literature |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Outdoor Space
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Planters with Succulents | Must Have | 4-6 | Easy to maintain and add to the desert aesthetic | Terracotta planters with local, drought-resistant plants |
| 2 | Dining Table Set | Must Have | 1 | For meals outdoors | Choose rustic style wooden set |
| 3 | Pool Towels | Must Have | Depends on max capacity | If you own a pool in your backyard | Choose durable, thick, and absorbent towels. |
| 4 | Dust Bin | Must Have | 1 | Maintain cleanliness in the outdoor space | Choose a sturdy bin with lid to prevent animals from accessing waste. |
| 5 | Outdoor Furniture Set | Must Have | 1 | Durable and can stand up to desert conditions | Choose materials such as metal, teak, or durable synthetic materials. |
| 6 | Shade Structure | Must Have | 1 | Given the Saudi climate, an outdoor area needs to provide shade for comfort | A sturdy **pergola** or retractable awning suits a rustic outdoor space perfectly. |
| 7 | Barbecue Grill | Must Have | 1 | Ensure local laws and Airbnb rules permit barbecue grills | Propane or charcoal grill depending on guests' preference. |
| 8 | Outdoor Lights | Must Have | 1 to 2 sets | For added safety and ambiance during the evening | Solar lights can cut down on electricity usage |
| 9 | Outdoor Decorations | Optional | Varies | To enhance the rustic aesthetic of the space | Choose rustic lanterns, wall hangings, and other traditional Saudi decor. |
| 10 | Storage Box | Optional | 1 | To store cushions, rugs, and other miscellaneous items when not in use | Choose a weatherproof wooden box that complements the rustic style. |
| 11 | Solar Phone Charger | Optional | 1 | For eco-friendly energy saving | Choose a portable laptop. |
| 12 | Outdoor Rug | Optional | 1 | Should be weather resistant and able to withstand extreme temperatures | Synthetic fiber rugs are typically durable and resistant. |
| 13 | Wine Barrel Bar Table | Optional | 1 | For a rustic touch and functionality | Choose real or faux wine barrels |
| 14 | Ceiling Fan | Optional | 1-2 | Provide relief from heat especially in the summer months | Choose outdoor, weather-resistant fans. |
| 15 | Outdoor Shower | Optional | 1 | Useful if guests are returning from desert activities | Look for rustic, outdoor-friendly shower fixtures. |
| 16 | Evaporative Cooler | Optional | 1 | Helps to cool the outdoor space during extreme heat | Choose a powerful portable cooler suitable for outdoor use. |
| 17 | Outdoor Cooler | Optional | 1 | Helps keep beverages cool in the desert heat | Choose a rustic wooden cooler. |
| 18 | Hamock | Optional | 1 | A relaxing addition to any outdoor space | Look for a hammock made from durable, weather-resistant material. |
| 19 | Fire Pit | Optional | 1 | Check with local regulations before installation. Fires should never be left unattended | Choose a rustic, wood-burning fire pit. |
| 20 | Outdoor Heaters | Optional | 1-2 | Useful for chilly desert evenings | Propane or electric heaters suited for use in a covered area |
| 21 | Majlis Style Seating | Optional | 1 | Traditional Arabic floor seating would provide an authentic cultural experience | Look for floor cushions, low tables, and traditional rugs. |
