Saudi Arabia is in the midst of a grand transformation, one that is repositioning the nation as a global leader in luxury travel. This shift goes beyond simply building grand resorts; it is a thoughtful and intentional process of crafting unique experiences that are deeply rooted in the kingdom’s rich natural and cultural heritage. From AI-inspired futuristic islands that reflect the sky to villas seamlessly integrated into ancient desert rock, Saudi Arabia’s hospitality landscape is being redefined.
For those planning a luxurious long weekend getaway, the options are as extraordinary as the country itself. The following five hotels represent the pinnacle of this new era of travel, each offering a distinct and unforgettable journey.
1. Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, Nujuma is a testament to understated luxury and hyper-personalized service. Located on Ummahat Island, the resort’s 65 villas are designed to harmonize with their surroundings. The architecture features shell-like curves and a muted color palette, allowing the structures to seemingly disappear into the breathtaking landscape of sand and sea. This is a place where the guest experience is deliberately unhurried, encouraging a deep connection with the environment.
A stay here is an invitation to explore. Guests can glide through vibrant coral reefs on guided dives, immersing themselves in the Red Sea’s rich marine life. For a more serene experience, the private decks of the villas offer an unparalleled opportunity for stargazing, far from the light pollution of cities. Nujuma also provides a rich cultural immersion through its art and cuisine, ensuring a stay that is not just luxurious, but also meaningful and memorable.
2. Shebara Resort
Shebara Resort is an architectural marvel that seems to defy reality. A scattering of polished stainless-steel orbs float just above the sea on a remote Red Sea island. By day, these futuristic villas reflect the sky and sea, blending seamlessly into the horizon. At sunset, they flicker with the golden and pink hues of the setting sun, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. The design, by the acclaimed Killa Design (the studio behind Dubai’s Museum of the Future), is a bold statement of future-forward luxury.
Inside, the villas, with interiors by Toronto-based Paolo Ferrari, evoke the feeling of stepping onto a private yacht. Curved leather walls and sculptural fittings create a sleek, sophisticated space. What truly sets Shebara apart, however, is its commitment to sustainability. The resort’s infrastructure is solar-powered, and its zero-impact construction and marine-sensitive engineering ensure that the fragile reef below remains untouched. Shebara is a perfect example of how eco-luxury can be both innovative and deeply respectful of its natural surroundings.
3. Six Senses Southern Dunes
For those who find solace in the desert, Six Senses Southern Dunes offers a grounding contrast to the Red Sea’s aquatic allure. Tucked into a sweep of golden dunes against the backdrop of the Hijaz Mountains, this wellness-first retreat is a haven for desert dreamers. The architecture, with its organic forms and intelligent cooling systems, is designed to be in touch with the natural beauty of the landscape. Every angle offers a breathtaking view of the vast, silent desert.
A stay at a Six Senses property is a journey toward wellness, and Southern Dunes is no exception. Guests can indulge in an Ayurvedic detox or simply enjoy a long, quiet lunch under the desert sun. The experience is designed to be intuitive, immersive, and deeply still, inviting a sense of calm and rejuvenation that is often hard to find in a fast-paced world.
4. Desert Rock Resort
Desert Rock Resort offers an extraordinary experience of living in harmony with nature. Nestled within ancient stone formations and mountain valleys, the villas are built directly into the cliffs, a true testament to seamless integration with the terrain. This creates the feeling of a luxurious cave dwelling with an otherworldly view. The resort’s design honors the raw, magnetic power of the landscape, making it a truly spiritual and unforgettable place.
Adventures abound at Desert Rock. From guided stargazing sessions that reveal a sky full of constellations to invigorating hiking trails through ancient valleys, the resort provides a deep connection to the earth. Signature spa rituals and other bespoke experiences are crafted to feel personal and restorative, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the raw beauty of their surroundings.
5. The Chedi Hegra
As the only hotel located within the Hegra UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Chedi Hegra offers a cinematic and mindful experience of AlUla’s rare beauty. The property’s minimalist elegance is backed by towering sandstone cliffs and ancient rock formations, creating a breathtaking and historic setting. A stay here is not just about luxury; it is about immersing oneself in centuries of history and culture.
The Chedi Hegra is known for its curated retreats rooted in ancient rituals. Guests can participate in desert yoga sessions at sunrise, meditate under the moonlit sky, or take guided walks through landscapes that have witnessed civilizations rise and fall. The resort offers a unique opportunity to connect with a place of profound historical and spiritual significance, blending a sense of timelessness with modern comfort.
