- Shebara Resort has 38 mirrored steel overwater villas and 35 beachfront retreats.
- Solar-powered luxury resort shows Saudi Arabia’s approach to sustainability.
- Unique accommodations start at $2,500 USD per night.
When thinking of luxurious overwater villas, destinations like the Maldives or Bora Bora usually come to mind. However, surprisingly Saudi Arabia has also emerged in the luxury tourism scene with the Shebara resort. This unexpected development is making waves with its ultra-modern, spaceship-style villas that promise to change the meaning of luxury hospitality.
Saudi Arabia is best known for oil wealth and tradition but it is undergoing a serious transformation under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Through its Vision 2030 initiative, the kingdom has launched trillion-dollar mega-projects like NEOM and high-end tourism developments to shift its global image. And Shebara Resort is proof that this reinvention is well underway.
A Shimmering Jewel in the Red Sea
Shebara Resort is located 25 kilometres off Saudi Arabia’s coastline in the Al Wajh Lagoon and is part of the country’s effort to reposition itself as a premier travel destination. The resort has 38 overwater villas and 35 beachfront units that seamlessly blend with the surrounding coral reefs and golden desert landscapes.
The resort was designed by Killa Design (the same firm that was behind Dubai’s Museum of the Future) and its overwater villas are made of polished stainless steel which creates an illusion of floating. These futuristic structures are arranged in a stunning “string of pearls” formation and they are redefining what it means to vacation in style.
The interior was created by Studio Paolo Ferrari, where sweeping steel curves met rich burnt orange accents, leather-clad walls, and free-standing bathtubs. A reflective bar that has been sculpted to resemble a giant beetle further adds to the resort’s otherworldly aesthetic.
Sustainability Paired with Luxury
Shebara Resort isn’t just about luxury — it is also making a statement with its sustainability efforts. The entire resort is powered by solar energy which is an ambitious but crucial step as Saudi Arabia seeks to position itself as an eco-conscious travel destination. Guests can indulge in five world-class restaurants that offer Mediterranean, Japanese-Nikkei, and international cuisine. Breakfast will also consist of unique items such as poached eggs with caviar and lemon pancakes to start your day.
For those looking to relax, Shebara offers a high-end spa, family and adults-only pools, and a state-of-the-art gym. But if adventure is more your thing then the resort also offers snorkelling and diving opportunities just 30 to 40 meters away from the shore.
Getting to Shebara is an experience in itself. The resort is accessible via a 30-40 minute boat ride or a 30-minute seaplane flight from the new Red Sea International Airport, which links directly to Jeddah and Riyadh. And while Shebara promises an ultra-exclusive escape, it’s not exactly budget-friendly with the starting rates being $2,500 USD per night.
Saudi Arabia is still finding its footing as a mainstream tourist destination, and visitors should note that alcohol remains prohibited according to local customs. But for those open to discovering a new side of the Middle East, defined by cutting-edge design, high-end hospitality, and a commitment to sustainability, then the Shebara Resort delivers an experience like no other.
