First island resort opens on Saudi Red Sea coast

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts have announced the opening of a glamorous island haven with the opening of the St. Regis Red Sea Resort on Ummahat island in KSA.

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Nestled in the Al Wajh Lagoon, the resort is described by Marriott group as an “architectural marvel”. Its design, a brainchild of architect Kengo Kuma and interior design firm Kristina Zanic Consultants, is a tribute to the surrounding environment. The resort’s structure and interior spaces echo the coral reefs, marine life, and undulating sand dunes, offering a seamless integration of nature and luxury.

Jenni Benzaquen, SVP and Global Brand Leader for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, emphasised the resort’s unique position. “The Red Sea in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, one of the world’s last unexplored natural wonders, is poised to become a premier destination for leisure travellers,” she stated. The resort features 90 luxury beachfront and overwater villas, each designed to provide unrivaled sea views and privacy. These villas, ranging from one to four bedrooms, come equipped with private pools, sundecks, and outdoor showers, encapsulating the essence of upscale island living.

The resort is accessible via chartered boat or seaplane from the newly opened Red Sea International Airport, making it an exclusive getaway for the discerning traveller. The culinary experiences at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort are highly diverse. With five dining venues, the resort showcases local and international flavours. Gishiki 45 offers a Japanese-inspired menu, while Tilina specialises in overwater grill dining. Local farms and fisheries supply fresh produce, ensuring a sustainable and authentic dining experience.

Tony Coveney, General Manager of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, spoke of the resort’s commitment to luxury and sustainability. “Our resort is a perfect blend of St. Regis’s timeless elegance and the Kingdom’s visionary approach to sustainable luxury tourism,” he said. The resort aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, highlighting the nation’s dedication to economic diversification and sustainable development.

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort boasts being at the forefront of environmentally conscious hospitality. The entire island operates on 100% renewable energy, primarily solar power, supported by one of the world’s largest battery storage facilities on the mainland. The resort has been developed in accordance with LEED platinum certification guidelines, emphasising its commitment to environmental preservation.

The resort’s commitment extends to marine conservation, with partnerships with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and UK marine robotics company VAARST. These collaborations focus on preserving the thriving coral ecosystems across the Al Wajh Lagoon. Additionally, a mangrove nursery initiative aims to cultivate 50 million mangroves by 2030, complementing the region’s largest landscape nursery, home to over five million plants.

The opening of The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is a statement of the Kingdom’s ambition to redefine sustainable luxury on a global scale. As guests arrive to experience this unparalleled destination, they are not just checking into a resort; they are stepping into the future of luxury travel.

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