WAWW first explored Amaala’s ambitious vision in collaborative project with Robb Report as part of the OCEAN issue of “Destinations of the Future” back in December 2023. Located along Saudi Arabia’s untouched Red Sea coast, Amaala is an ultra-luxury tourism destination and part of the country’s Vision 2030 initiative.
Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is bringing to life several mega-projects aimed at diversifying the country’s economy. NEOM is focused on revolutionizing urban living with cutting-edge technologies, the Red Sea Project centres on eco-luxury and conservation, while Amaala is positioning itself as a leader in regenerative tourism. Let’s have a closer look.
Elena Leo, WAWW’s Director of Editorial, revisits Amaala to explore its progress since 2023 and what lies ahead as the destination approaches its highly anticipated 2025 debut.
2024 Updates: New Developments at Amaala
UPDATES AND CHALLENGES
While Amaala’s official opening is planned for 2025, 2024 has already seen significant advancements. One of the key highlights is the Ritz-Carlton, AMAALA, set to open at the northernmost tip of Triple Bay. Featuring 391 spacious rooms, with over 80% offering stunning views of the Red Sea, or the chic Marina Village, it will be the largest property in the Red Sea region. Along with its expansive accommodations, the resort will offer direct beach access, world-class wellness facilities, and a range of outdoor activities, making it a standout destination within AMAALA.
Meanwhile, Triple Bay itself is nearing completion, transforming into a lively hub featuring waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and a vibrant event calendar. On the wellness front, the Wellness Core—featuring Jayasom and Clinique La Prairie—is now 80% complete. It promises transformative wellness experiences in line with Amaala’s commitment to well-being and sustainability. The Jayasom Wellness Resort will offer multi-generational wellness experiences, with adults-only zones, family-friendly sections, and a blend of Western evidence-based practices with holistic remedies, drawing on local wisdom.
In addition, the Corallium Marine Life Institute is progressing rapidly and will serve as a hub for marine research, giving guests the opportunity to explore the region’s rich marine biodiversity while supporting conservation efforts. This institute plays a central role in Amaala’s vision, focusing on cutting-edge research into the marine ecosystems of the Red Sea and the protection of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses.
Like any ambitious project, Amaala has faced challenges. Developing in a remote area like the Red Sea coast brings logistical hurdles, from ensuring the project runs entirely on renewable energy to sourcing and retaining skilled hospitality staff in such a location. However, these challenges are being addressed head-on, and Amaala remains on course for its 2025 opening.
Where to Book Now: Top Luxury Stays at the Red Sea Project
While Amaala readies itself for its grand debut, travellers don’t have to wait to experience the Red Sea’s luxury offerings. Sindalah at NEOM is set to open in October 2024 and parts of the Red Sea Project are already welcoming guests. You can book stays at Six Senses Southern Dunes or Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, both offering a blend of desert and island experiences. These properties provide a preview of what Amaala will offer, combining sustainable practices with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Red Sea.
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Nujuma, set on the idyllic Ummahat Island, opened in May 2024. This exclusive retreat features 63 overwater and beachfront villas, each with private pools and panoramic sea views. The resort, designed to connect guests with both the sea and sky, includes Neyrah Spa, an indoor-outdoor sanctuary offering treatments rooted in local culture. The Conservation Center provides interactive programs that delve into the region’s biodiversity and cultural heritage, making Nujuma a hub for regenerative tourism. Accessible via a yacht or seaplane, this secluded sanctuary invites guests to explore the vibrant coral reefs or take in the stunning night sky through telescopes provided in each villa.
Six Senses Southern Dunes
Opened in November 2023, Six Senses Southern Dunes is a pioneering resort designed by Foster + Partners. Its 76 villas are arranged to blend seamlessly with the surrounding desert, offering a connection to nature through expansive terraces and thoughtfully curated interiors that reflect the local Nabataean heritage. The heart of the resort, the Oasis, is a self-shading structure inspired by a desert flower, where vibrant cultural experiences take place. With a state-of-the-art spa, biohacking treatments, and locally inspired wellness practices, this resort is the first LEED Platinum-certified property in Saudi Arabia, powered entirely by solar energy.
Get more inspiration by visiting https://www.redseaglobal.com/en/
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