A five-star boutique hotel in Istanbul that opened earlier this year is wooing Gulf tourists with the promise of an exclusive experience in the heart of the old city.

Described as an artistic masterpiece, the Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet is the first hotel within the Ajwa brand and combines some exquisite elements to represent ‘Old Istanbul’ in a luxurious and modern setting.

With 61 rooms spread across nearly 7,000 sq m, the fully halal property offers panoramic views of the old town and the Sea of Marmara.  

The property incorporates artisan elements in every detail: carvings made by Topkapi restorers, wooden and mother-of-pearl ornaments, created by a Syrian craftsman, handmade furniture, precious Tabriz silk carpets, paintings by Azerbaijani artists, Seljuk- and Ottoman-inspired architecture, immaculate marble work and intricately handcrafted Iznik tiles.

General Manager Sedat Nemli says: “The Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet is truly a one-of-a-kind property that perfectly merges old school elegance with a stylish modern twist. We wanted to offer guests something they’ve never experienced before - a glimpse of the past while living in the luxury of today.  With the fine attention-to-detail, exclusive setting and prime location, the property is quickly establishing itself as a must-visit location in Istanbul.”

Family and deluxe rooms welcome guests with walnut wood furniture and colour fabric wallpapers.  Bathrooms are adorned with elements such as tiles inspired by Mimar Sinan’s mosques, and fountains with ceramic basins and marble sinks.

Corner suites, decorated in shades of purple, lilac, mauve and sea green, reflect the history of Istanbul with Seljuk motifs and relaxed Ottoman seating.

The 120-sq-m Sultan Suite is billed as the ultimate representation of elegant tastes of the past moulded with the present. A grand dining area, coupled with a living area, master bedroom, and bathroom with a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and shower area, provide the epitome of luxury in an authentic Turkish setting. No detail is left unturned - from quaint ornaments on wooden cabinets, to immaculate marble work and ornate furnishings.

Guests looking to relax Turkish style can visit the Afiya Spa which features a hammam, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, private treatment rooms, indoor pool, and snow fountain. 

The hotel has intimate meeting rooms on the mezzanine and uppermost levels of the building. 

Food and beverage options include the Zeferan, which specialises in Azerbaijani cuisine, and the pastry shop. 

A dry property, Ajwa Hotel Sultanahmet is a 10-minute walk to landmarks such as Grand Bazaar, Haghia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Sultanahmet Mosque.