After years of meticulous planning and development, Six Senses Southern Dunes is ready to unveil itself as a true paradise at Saudi Arabia’s sprawling Red Sea Global mega tourism project.
Nestled between the towns of Umluj and Al Wajh, the resort sits majestically amidst the beautiful Hijaz Mountains, surrounded by volcanic rocks, imposing mountain ranges, vast golden sand dunes and incredible views of the Red Sea coastline.
Located just one hour’s drive from the kingdom’s new international airport, Six Senses Southern Dunes is one of the first luxury hotels to open its doors at the huge Red Sea Development. Arabian Business Traveller sat down with Fredrik Blomqvist, General Manager, to learn more about what defines this one-of-a-kind desert oasis and how it plans to set new standards for sustainable hospitality.
Blomqvist revealed that the location’s natural beauty and historical significance were major draws for him to take the role. “This region was part of the ancient Incense Route where cultures converged for centuries,” he said. Paying homage to its Nabataean heritage, the resort aims to thoughtfully incorporate these cultural elements into the guest experience through activities like traditional weaving and cooking workshops.
The Resort
Designed by renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, the resort features clusters of luxurious suites and villas with tent-inspired structures echoing the region’s desert flowers. Featuring 40 suites, guests can relax in open-plan bedrooms, spacious living areas and private outdoor terraces with panoramic Red Sea views. In addition the villas will offer options of one to four bedrooms.
The villas are inspired by the dunes themselves, with their double-layered undulating roofs creating a scenery all of their own. The interiors also reflect the tones and textures of the desert, with soft furnishings drawing from the colours and patterns of traditional tribal attire. The villas will also offer private pools, for privacy and seclusion.
Activities
At the heart of the resort is the lush Oasis, a social hub housing a lobby lounge, boutiques, prayer rooms and meeting spaces ideal for events. An Artisan Village hosts cultural experiences showcasing regional arts, crafts, music and dance. The all-day restaurant offers global cuisine alongside a chef’s table, juice bar and craft beverage programs.
Wellness is a priority, with the expansive Six Senses Spa including indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy facilities, a sensory suite and pampering male/female grooming centres. Activities range from relaxation to rejuvenating anti-aging treatments utilising locally-sourced ingredients.
Environmental Commitment
Sustainability remains a core pillar – Southern Dunes is the first hotel in the kingdom powered entirely by solar energy. An on-site plant produces still and sparkling water. Plastic-free practices minimise environmental impact while guests dine on fresh, local produce.
Through its oasis-like design and commitment to cultural immersion, wellness and renewability, Six Senses Southern Dunes is redefining luxury hospitality while protecting the desert landscapes it inhabits. Guests can feel good about experiencing this sustainable slice of paradise in one of Saudi Arabia’s most spectacular private resorts.
Red Sea Global Updates
The Red Sea Global project is on track to welcome guests to three new luxury hotels in December. Along with Six Senses Sand Dunes, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve and St. Regis Red Sea Resort will open their doors.
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort will be located on a private island, while the Ritz-Carlton Reserve will feature over-water villas built in the stunning Red Sea.
Starting in December, the Red Sea Global’s activity brand will offer experiences for the first guests. Companies like Galaxea, WAMA and Akun have designed a range of underwater, overwater and land activities for all ages and abilities.
Guests can enjoy water sports like kayaking and snorkeling or scuba diving. Or venture onto land for biking, hiking, climbing and skydiving. Cultural activities include visiting nearby towns and immersing in local artisan markets and cuisine.
“We’re on track to open the remaining 13 hotels in phase one next year,” says Rosanna Chopra, Executive Director of Destination Development for Red Sea Global. Solar farms recently installed will power phase one assets. Operational hubs are also nearing completion ahead of hotel openings.
When complete in 2030, the Red Sea Project aims to transform 28,000 square kilometres of Saudi coastline into a sustainable tourism destination through regenerative development. Offering a unique barefoot luxury experience centred on environmental protection and communities, it will showcase natural beauty like islands, mountains and canyons alongside 1,600 historical sites. This ambitious vision harnesses natural assets to appeal to travellers seeking adventure, while supporting biodiversity and communities for generations to come.
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