Ten years ago, if you asked anyone if Saudi Arabia was on their travel bucket lists, chances are slim to none. However, over the last few years, the Kingdom has been implementing change by putting several efforts into diversifying its economy, putting the country on the run for the next tourism leader in the Middle East.
Courtesy of its Vision 2030 Project, Saudi Arabia has been booming its tourism force by opening itself to the world and inviting visitors from around the world to discover a new culture, and leisure and entertainment projects – set to be complete over the next decade.
With the opening of Al Ula and several other projects, the aforementioned strategy has already significantly enhanced the country as a tourist destination, and we’re certain this new resort will have you searching for flights, stat.
Enter Desert Rock: the new mountain resort located in the breathtaking wadi vistas of Saudi’s western coast.
The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) – the developer behind this ambitious regenerative tourism project – worked alongside the world-class architectural design firm, Oppenheim Architecture, to create a resort that will allow its visitors to connect with nature and the local culture of the region.
“We wanted to create a destination that allows guests to experience Saudi Arabia’s untouched beauty. Desert Rock will provide guests with uninterrupted spectacular views while preserving the natural landscape for future generations to enjoy,” said John Pagano, CEO at TRSDC. “We have drawn inspiration from the surrounding environment, while providing unparalleled luxury, allowing guests to connect with nature and create memorable experiences.”
Whilst integrating architecture with nature, Desert Rock will also offer a unique resort experience that is sustainably constructed.
First, guests will enter the resort through a hidden valley nestled between the mountains, where they’ll come across 48 villas and 12 hotel rooms within the mountain, with architecture fully integrated into the rock – a philosophy trusted by Oppenheim Architecture. Build with the land, not on the land.
From ground level dwellings to crevice hotel suites midway up the mountain, and a select number of excavated rooms within the rock massif itself, there will be a range of accommodation available.
In addition to unparalleled views, the resort will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including a world-class spa, fitness centre, remote destination dining areas as well as a feature lagoon oasis. And if that wasn’t enough to get you booking, guests will also be able to hike, use dune buggies, and stargaze as part of the site-wide activities program.
To make sure that you get a 360-degree experience of Desert Rock, you’ll be able to hear and learn about the ancient history of the area from local community experts.
As part of TRSDC’s commitment to regenerative tourism, the Desert Rock resort will be sustainably constructed and designed to achieve the highest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification level.
Chad Oppenheim, Founder of Oppenheim Architecture, said: “Desert Rock is one of the most dramatic desert landscapes in the world, which is why we wanted to use the architecture to honour and respect it. By utilizing natural materials and integrating the resort into the rock, guests can connect physically with the destination and experience Saudi Arabia’s stunning, natural beauty.”
As of now, the Red Sea Project has already passed significant milestones on the destination and work is on track to welcome the first guests by the end of 2022. Stay tuned!
Until then, discover the Expo 2020 Dubai Passport.
