The Red Sea resorts in Saudi Arabia fast becoming one of the world’s most exclusive luxury destinations—and for good reason. With untouched coral reefs, futuristic eco-resorts, and private island experiences curated by some of the world’s top architects and hoteliers, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Project is a game-changer in global travel. From celestial-inspired stargazing suites to mirror-finish overwater orbs, here’s a look at the major Red Sea resorts in Saudi Arabia leading this bold new frontier in desert-meets-sea indulgence.
Desert Rock
Tucked into the towering cliffs and ancient rock formations of Saudi Arabia’s amazing mountainscape, Desert Rock Resort is a Red Sea resort that feels like it was carved by time, and touched by modern luxury. A bold blend of adventure, architecture, and sustainability, this remarkable retreat opened in late 2024 and is already turning heads. Designed by Oppenheim Architecture and seamlessly integrated into the raw terrain, the resort features 64 keys—including villas with private pools and suites hidden inside natural rock crevices.
This isn’t just a stay, it’s a journey. Expect canyon-edge infinity pools, desert-inspired spa rituals, and starlit dinners on mountaintops. You’ll zipline through valleys by day, then sip cocktails at MICA by night.
Highlight: Villas sculpted into the mountain with panoramic views, dune buggy safaris, and sunset hikes led by local guides.
Access: 20 minutes by electric vehicle from Red Sea International Airport (RSI).
Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Named after the Arabic word for “stars,” Nujuma is a celestial sanctuary on Ummahat Island, and the Middle East’s most exclusive escape. Recently crowned Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Hotel of the Year, it combines Foster + Partners’ shell-inspired design with Ritz-Carlton’s signature sense of place.
Villas of this extravagant Red Sea resort (overwater and beachfront) come with telescopes, panoramic decks, and private pools, while the dining experiences are nothing short of stellar, from astronomy-inspired drinks at Maia to seafood feasts at Tabrah. The resort also includes a conservation house, kids club, and Neyrah Spa, it’s luxury with soul.
Access: Seaplane or speedboat from RSI.
Shebara Resort
Out on Sheybarah Island, Shebara Resort makes a dazzling impression. Think reflective orb-like villas floating above turquoise waters, solar-powered everything, and sustainability baked into the blueprint. Designed by Killa Design and interiors by Studio Paolo Ferrari, this RSG-operated resort is already making headlines, TIME Magazine named it one of the World’s Greatest Places of 2025. Each of the 73 villas (some with yacht docks) promises immersive luxury, privacy, and a futuristic yet grounded aesthetic.
Highlight: Overwater stainless steel villas that mirror the sea and sky, plus catamaran adventures and Japanese-Nikkei dining.
Access: 30–40 minutes by boat or seaplane from RSI.
Six Senses Southern Dunes
Tucked between dunes and mountains, Six Senses Southern Dunes is a sensory journey into Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage. Designed by Foster + Partners and inspired by Nabataean culture, the resort centers around a futuristic “oasis” and offers 76 sand-toned villas and suites blending seamlessly into the desert. From immersive Bedouin-inspired interiors to organic mattresses and panoramic views, every detail is about balance and wellbeing. Guests can join desert hikes, enjoy spa rituals, or learn Saudi culinary secrets in the onsite cooking school.
Highlight: Signature Sunset Reserve villa with private cinema, and regionally inspired wellness rituals.
Access: ~100 km northeast of Umluj, reachable by road or private transfer.
Vibe: Rooted, rustic-luxe, and consciously curated.
St. Regis Red Sea Resort
Where nature meets avant-garde luxury
Set on a private island in the Ummahat archipelago, the St. Regis Red Sea Resort is a serene blend of architectural poetry and barefoot glamour. Designed by Kengo Kuma, the 90-villa resort flows like desert dunes meeting the sea—complete with spiraled coral villas offering panoramic Red Sea views. Expect modern opulence: private infinity pools, direct beach or water access, and three standout dining concepts—from the seafood-forward Gishiki 45 to the Middle Eastern Nesma. With St. Regis’ signature butler service, a high-tech fitness hub, and a spa surrounded by coral reefs, this is polished island living with a wild heart.
Highlight: Coral reef diving and eco-conscious design with all the St. Regis bells and whistles.
Access: 25–30 minutes by seaplane or speedboat from Red Sea International Airport.
Vibe: Elegant, organic, and effortlessly chic.
Coming Soon
The Red Sea’s not done wowing us just yet. Two more major resorts are on the way — and while they’re not open for stays just yet, there’s already plenty to be excited about. Here’s a quick look at what’s coming soon:
AMAALA
If you’re into wellness, art, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing in nature — AMAALA is the destination to watch.
Amaala being built along a quiet stretch of Saudi’s northwest coast, inside a huge nature reserve, with mountains on one side and coral reefs on the other. What makes AMAALA special is how focused it is on health, sustainability, and clean design, with luxury hotels, a marina village, art spaces, and even a marine life institute.
What to look forward to:
- Marina Village with restaurants, shops, and a futuristic yacht club
- Luxury resorts from top global names like Rosewood and Equinox
- Nature adventures like diving, hiking, and horse riding
- An Arts Village with galleries and creative events
- Sustainability at the heart of it all — AMAALA will run fully on renewable energy and keep most of the land untouched
Phase one is expected to open in 2025, with even more resorts and experiences rolling out by 2027.
Rosewood Red Sea
As an exciting addition to the Red Sea resorts, over on Shura Island, Rosewood Red Sea is another luxury resort that’s getting ready to open, and it’s already looking like a go-to for stylish, chilled-out stays with a splash of everything.
Think ocean-view rooms, a private beach, three restaurants, a spa, a golf course, and even a yacht club — all in one beautiful spot.
What to look forward to:
- 149 rooms and suites with full Red Sea views
- Three restaurants and two lounges for a food-filled stay
- Asaya Spa, yoga spaces, and movement studios for wellness lovers
- An 18-hole golf course and all kinds of water sports
- Direct access via the Red Sea International Airport, so getting there will be a breeze
Just like AMAALA, it’s part of a bigger plan for sustainable tourism — with a focus on protecting the sea, the land, and everything in between.
