SLS The Red Sea has officially opened on Shura Island, bringing one of hospitality’s most expressive lifestyle brands to the very heart of Saudi Arabia’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destination.
Positioned centrally within The Red Sea development, the 150-key resort introduces SLS’s distinctive mix of theatrical design, high-energy social spaces and curated culinary experiences to a destination defined by environmental stewardship and architectural precision.
A design statement at the centre of The Red Sea
Framed by sugar-soft sands and crystalline waters, the property is accessed via winding pathways that lead to the now-iconic “coral bloom” architecture conceived by Foster + Partners. The structures form part of Shura Island’s masterplan, designed to blend into — rather than dominate — the natural environment.
The resort comprises 117 rooms, 18 suites and 15 beachfront villas. Interiors balance bold detailing with natural textures, while elevated in-room amenities include Ortigia Ambra Nera bath products and a reimagined minibar concept featuring premium non-alcoholic spirits and curated aperitivo-style selections.
The villas, positioned directly on the beachfront, offer private pools, expansive terraces and generous indoor–outdoor living spaces, reinforcing the exclusivity that is rapidly becoming synonymous with The Red Sea.
Destination dining as centre stage
Dining sits at the core of the SLS experience, with several signature concepts making their Saudi debut.
Floating World delivers a Japanese-inspired culinary journey influenced by Edo-era pleasure culture, while London favourite Seabird introduces a seafood-forward menu rooted in Spanish and Portuguese coastal traditions.
Fi’lia brings refined Italian comfort cuisine to Shura Island, and Deluxe, the lobby café and bar, transitions seamlessly from morning coffee to evening aperitivo rituals. Poolside, The Perch anchors the resort’s social rhythm with DJ-led afternoons and a curated non-alcoholic beverage programme tailored to the Saudi market.
For advisors, the variety of concepts adds clear appeal for both leisure travellers and multi-generational groups seeking experiential dining within the resort footprint.
Wellness and lifestyle programming
Spanning more than 1,100 sqm, Ciel Spa positions wellness as both performance-driven and immersive. The facility integrates advanced facial technology, hydrotherapy rituals and gender-specific thermal zones, complemented by a high-spec fitness centre.
The resort also distinguishes itself through extensive lifestyle programming. Its main pool — the largest on Shura Island — acts as a focal point for social events, while younger guests are catered to through dedicated Kids’ and Teens’ Clubs.
Outdoor pursuits include beachfront yoga, padel, kayaking and snorkelling, alongside premium water sports such as Seabob and e-foil. Shura Island’s open-air cinema further enhances the experiential dimension.
Strategic positioning within The Red Sea
SLS The Red Sea occupies a prime position within Shura Island, surrounded by protected coral reefs, marine reserves and a curated collection of luxury hospitality brands. The island also features a world-class marina, retail promenades and Saudi Arabia’s first 18-hole championship golf course within the destination.
Developed by Red Sea Global (RSG), The Red Sea forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader economic diversification strategy under Vision 2030. The project has been positioned globally as a benchmark for regenerative tourism — aiming not simply to minimise environmental impact but to enhance ecological conditions over time.
With its expressive brand DNA and high-energy social positioning, SLS introduces a different tone to the destination — complementing ultra-private villa resorts with a more lifestyle-driven offering.
For the luxury travel trade, the opening adds another compelling option within a destination that continues to gain traction among high-net-worth travellers seeking privacy, sustainability credentials and design-led hospitality.
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Read also: “A new era of Saudi luxury”: Sébastien Carré on Red Sea Global Hospitality’s rise
