About Us

Welcome to The Jerusalem Hotel, a historic gem nestled in Jerusalem’s ancient city, proudly managed by the Saadeh family since 1960. Our hotel boasts authentic 20th-century Arab architecture featuring arched windows, high ceilings, and a tranquil restaurant. Painstakingly restored since 1991, we seamlessly blend traditional Arabesque décor with exquisite antiques, offering a unique ambiance that mirrors Jerusalem’s storied past.

Delight in a culinary journey at The Jerusalem Hotel, where our restaurant showcases a menu inspired by the vibrant culture and heritage of Jerusalem’s Old City. Savor a variety of local dishes amidst our charming restaurant, all at affordable prices.

Renowned among cultural and corporate circles alike, The Jerusalem Hotel combines historical allure, musical inspiration, and exceptional family-like service. Located just moments from Damascus Gate, our hotel provides convenient access to Jerusalem’s famed landmarks, picturesque city walks, and bustling markets.

Experience the magic of Jerusalem at The Jerusalem Hotel, where tradition meets unparalleled hospitality. Reserve your stay today and uncover the wonders of our historic city.

The historic Jerusalem Hotel, acquired by the Saadeh family in 1960, stands as a testament to their dedication to hospitality and preserving the rich heritage of Jerusalem. Originally owned by the Ramallah Khalaf family from 1949 to 1960, the hotel came under the care of Sami Saadeh, a man of diverse experiences and a passion for hospitality.

Sami’s journey led him from the Iraqi Petroleum Company (ICP) in Haifa during the 1930s to Lebanon in 1951 and later to Jordan. In 1960, Sami married Julia Shaer from Beit Jala near Bethlehem, and together they returned to Jerusalem. Sami and his brother Zaki launched the Ritz Hotel with a hundred rooms and the charming Jerusalem Hotel mansion serving as a pension.

The Six-Day War of 1967 tested the Saadeh family’s resilience, as they navigated tumultuous times, returning to a damaged hotel and looted residence. In 1980, Sami’s Parkinson’s disease diagnosis prompted the management’s transition to a specialized hotel services company.

In 1990, Sami’s son Raed returned from his studies in the United States, assuming the hotel’s management and spearheading its transformation into a heritage destination in 1993. Today, Raed and some family members oversee the hotel, ensuring guests a memorable stay reflective of their commitment to hospitality and Jerusalem’s unique character.

With a history as storied as the city it calls home, the Jerusalem Hotel invites guests to experience the Saadeh family’s dedication to service, the allure of its Middle Eastern decor, and the enduring charm of Jerusalem’s heritage.

The Jerusalem Hotel, steeped in history, is a captivating building that has witnessed defining moments over the past century. Located near the Old City, the hotel stands at the border between East and West Jerusalem, offering guests a unique vantage point to explore the city’s rich heritage.

Adding to its historical significance, the hotel is built over the site of a 5th-century Byzantine church, as documented by the antiquity’s authorities. The site faced destruction by the Sassanid Persians in the 7th century and was later abandoned until the late 18th century.
Originally serving as an Ottoman police station, the building witnessed the mobilization of men for World War I. Nearby institutions, such as Schmidt’s Girls College, the Dominican Convent, and the Garden Tomb, further highlight the area’s importance.

During the British Mandate the building was transformed into a school, closing its doors in 1948 due to the city’s division. The Khalaf family of Ramallah took over in 1949, converting it into a pension for pilgrims.

In 1960, the current owners assumed ownership but faced challenges when the building was partially destroyed and burnt during the Six-Day War in 1967. Extensive rehabilitation began in 1993, preserving its heritage while adding modern amenities for guest comfort.
Today, inspired by Evdokia, the woman who built the church discovered under the hotel, each of the hotel rooms is named after one of the women who contributed to the building of the city.

The Jerusalem Hotel invites guests to experience its historical charm, blending its unique heritage with personalized service. As a testament to resilience and dedication, the hotel stands proud, offering a glimpse into Jerusalem’s captivating past.