Red Sea Global (RSG) has announced that Shebara, the newest luxury resort in the Red Sea destination, is officially opening its lines for guest reservations. Set to welcome its first visitors in November 2024, Shebara is the fourth resort to debut at The Red Sea destination and the first of RSG’s owned and operated properties.
Conceived as a premium sanctuary for the discerning traveller, Shebara offers an exceptional experience with direct access to one of the world’s most biodiverse marine environments. Located 25 kilometres from the mainland, the resort can be reached by a 30-40-minute boat ride or a scenic 30-minute seaplane flight from Red Sea International Airport (RSI).
Designed by the renowned Killa Design firm, Shebara’s architecture reflects its commitment to sustainable luxury, featuring 73 villas—including overwater “orbs” that resemble floating pearls. These stainless steel orbs are specially crafted to reflect and refract natural light, creating a seamless visual harmony with the sea, sky, and surrounding coral reefs. The inland villas, inspired by sand dunes, ensure privacy and offer breathtaking views of the landscape.
Inside, the villas draw inspiration from luxury yachts, featuring spacious, elegant rooms with panoramic ocean views. Guests can access private decks equipped with infinity pools, sunken lounges, and outdoor showers, creating an immersive indoor-outdoor experience. The inland villas, meanwhile, are designed to echo the shapes of nearby sand dunes, providing a sense of seclusion and privacy. This thoughtful design allows guests to connect deeply with the surrounding desert and marine environments while enjoying unparalleled comfort and exclusivity
Each villa is equipped with high-end amenities, including king-sized beds, double vanities, and luxurious bathrooms with both bathtubs and showers. Larger units, like the two- and three-bedroom villas, offer additional living and dining spaces, making them ideal for family gatherings or group stays.
This secluded location serves as a gateway to nature and wellness, with guests invited to dive into the Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters, renowned for their stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Shebara promises an immersive luxury experience that is deeply rooted in the Saudi concept of Hafawah, a tradition of generosity, kindness, and warm hospitality.
“We are immensely proud to open Shebara to the world, yet another remarkable milestone for Red Sea Global and Saudi tourism,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “This luxury and truly one-of-a-kind resort embodies our commitment to innovative design and sustainable tourism. I am genuinely excited for our first guests to experience the unparalleled beauty and serenity of Shebara, where every detail has been crafted to create unforgettable memories.”
A breathtaking diving spot
Guests can explore nearby reefs with a dramatic 30-40 metre drop-off, ideal for diving, or enjoy panoramic sunset views from “lily pad” seating terraces around the adult-only pool.
The coral reef surrounding Sheybarah Island is one of the world’s most pristine and ecologically diverse marine environments. The reef supports an intricate ecosystem where divers can witness an array of vividly coloured corals, from brain and staghorn corals to soft varieties that sway in the gentle currents. This biodiversity hotspot teems with a wide spectrum of marine life, including schools of brightly hued reef fish such as angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish, which dart among the coral formations.
Larger marine species are also a draw for divers. Turtles, which are frequently seen gliding over the reef, often nest in the Red Sea’s sandy shores, while rays and small reef sharks occasionally make an appearance, adding to the excitement of underwater exploration. The area is also notable for its lack of significant human impact, allowing delicate species like sea fans, anemones, and rare sponges to flourish, contributing to the reef’s vibrant colours and complex textures.
The visibility in these waters is typically excellent, allowing divers to enjoy the full extent of the reef’s beauty from a distance. Due to minimal pollution and strict environmental preservation efforts by Red Sea Global, Sheybarah’s reef has maintained its ecological integrity, providing an unparalleled diving experience. This approach aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of promoting sustainable tourism by preserving the natural environment while offering luxury experiences that appeal to environmentally conscious travellers.
Michelin-starred Italian chef heads culinary team
Michelin-starred chef Marco Garfagnini brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the dining experience at Shebara resort. A native of Tuscany, Garfagnini’s culinary journey began with his own Michelin-starred restaurant, Ristorante Ninan in Carrara, and has spanned prestigious roles, including Executive Chef positions at Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues in Geneva, where he earned a Michelin star, and the Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai. His career is marked by a dedication to crafting simple, harmonious dishes with a focus on authentic, high-quality ingredients, often inspired by his Italian roots and extensive international training.
At Shebara, Garfagnini leads a Mediterranean dining experience that blends traditional techniques with contemporary flair. His “Pasta Lab” showcases homemade pastas, allowing guests to observe the craftsmanship behind each dish. The menu also highlights fresh seafood, crudos, and Mediterranean tapas, which are all carefully prepared to celebrate regional flavours and ingredients. This approach aligns with Shebara’s commitment to offering guests a culinary experience that complements the resort’s luxurious, nature-integrated setting on the Red Sea.
The resort offers a range of dining options for guests, each with a unique focus, from the Mediterranean-inspired main restaurant to the nature-inspired Solera pool bar, and a Japanese-Peruvian fusion at IKI.ROE. Chef Garfagnini’s influence is expected to elevate Shebara as a top destination for gastronomes seeking luxury, sustainability, and culinary artistry in a serene, secluded environment
Shebara goes beyond traditional luxury with its extensive amenities. Guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a nature-inspired spa sanctuary with five luxurious treatment rooms. Each element is carefully curated to deliver a holistic wellness experience, allowing guests to relax, rejuvenate, and savour the best of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality.
Opening offer
To celebrate its grand opening, Shebara is offering an exclusive introductory promotion: guests booking two consecutive nights will receive a third night complimentary.
For high-end travel advisors, Shebara represents an important new addition to Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing luxury travel portfolio, offering clients a rare blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and sustainable innovation in a world-class destination.
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Photos courtesy of RED SEA GLOBAL
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Read also: Top luxury seaside resorts in Saudi Arabia – Part 2: Red Sea Global development
