Saudi Arabia’s first Banyan Tree resort will soon open its doors at the historic AlUla heritage site. The resort will be situated 15 kilometers from the ancient city of Hegra, which is the Kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, and will have 82 luxury tents with shaded outdoors and private paths. It’ll also house a spa with luxury facilities, along with a fully equipped gym, multiple swimming pools and a plethora of restaurants for guests to choose from.
Designed to blend into its surroundings, the resort will combine sand-colored tones and architectural features that are sensitive to the environment of the region. Due to the zero light pollution in the region, guests will also be able to enjoy the amazing stargazing opportunities that AlUla provides.
The partnership between AlUla and Accor, Europe’s biggest hospitality group and the parent company of Banyan Tree, comes along with a focus on sustaining the ecosystems and wildlife in the region as well. Banyan Tree has been making various efforts in sustainability at all its resorts with a worldwide plastic-free pledge and commitment to creating value in the communities they work with.
In a statement to The National, Amr Al Madani, chief executive of the Royal Commission for AlUla, said, “This new partnership demonstrates how AlUla’s unique appeal as a cultural, heritage and nature destination fits with Accor’s Banyan Tree brand, which is synonymous with authentically unique experiences. We’re working with the world’s best developers and hotel operators to deliver projects that complement our cultural oasis, as well as benefiting our local community.”
Images credit: Royal Commission of AlUla