Words by Sue Omar
As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 continues to rapidly transform the region, regenerative tourism has reached new heights with the latest luxury hotel openings on the untouched shores of Shura Island. In 2025, phase one of the development debuts the iconic SLS, EDITION and InterContinental hotels. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of beautiful blue lagoons, clear skies and sun-kissed shorelines, Shura Island is where energy, creativity and culture come together in the heart of the Red Sea.
EDITION by Marriott is a unique collection of luxury boutique hotels strategically located in major cities in North America, Asia Pacific and the Middle East.
The design of the Red Sea Edition is inspired by the local culture (Red Sea Global)
From Shanghai to Abu Dhabi, each EDITION hotel blends its sophisticated style with a stylish, modern aesthetic that is influenced by the culture, community and atmosphere of each city. While no two hotels are the same, the EDITION’s extraordinary service, vibrant social scenes and lavish lifestyle facilities remain at the essence of each visit.
Situated on Shura Island, The Red Sea EDITION now open in Saudi Arabia is no exception and may have even raised the bar as a one-of-a-kind coastal sanctuary, where modern city style meets island serenity. With 240 elegantly designed rooms, including up to 53 sun-lit suites, The Red Sea EDITION is an idyllic escape for those seeking a contemporary and stylish stay surrounded by sea, sand and awe-inspiring natural surroundings. A great choice for solo travelers, couples and families, guests can look forward to enjoying a wide range of leisure activities, including watersports, golf and fine dining, as well as rejuvenating rituals and treatments at its world-class spa. What’s more, the prestige property offers seamless connectivity to the mainland, inviting guests to uncover hidden gems along the untouched Red Sea coastline at their own leisure.
The Red Sea Edition offers a one-of-a-kind coastal sanctuary (Red Sea Global)
Globally renowned for its bold, stylish and unique approach, SLS Hotels and Resorts redefine luxury hospitality with its playful spirit and extraordinary experiences across continents.
Modern, comfortable rooms can be expected at SLS The Red Sea (Red Sea Global)
Marking its Saudi Arabian debut, SLS The Red Sea brings the brand’s theatrical flair, fine dining, glamorous interiors and audacious energy to the shores of the Red Sea, setting the stage for magical moments and unforgettable stays. Located in the Shura Island, the vibrant retreat’s striking architecture and modern facilities span across 28,000 square kilometres of natural beauty – from pristine islands to dreamlike desert dunes and dramatic mountain peaks.
With 150 bright and light-filled rooms and 15 signature pool villas, the property features elegant dining options, a signature spa, a state-of-the-art 24/7 gym, as well as three seasonal pools, including two rooftop retreats with sensational sea and city views.
Each space at the refined regenerative resort is elevated by SLS’s signature aesthetic that combines contemporary design with natural textures and timeless neutral tones that blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Elsewhere, SLS The Red Sea’s wide selection of dining and entertainment options bring an exciting and lively atmosphere to the resort. From Fi’lia’s authentic Italian cuisine and warm, family-friendly atmosphere to The Perch’s poolside sangrias and light bites, and Deluxe’s delicious pastries and fashionable cakes, every guest is sure to find a taste to savour at SLS.
The resort blends in seamlessly with the surrounding nature (Red Sea Global)
Nestled on Shura Island’s untouched shores, a barefoot sanctuary with white-sand beaches, soothing sea waves, mesmerising mangroves and Saudi Arabian hospitality awaits at InterContinental The Red Sea.
Experience barefoot luxury at the InterContinental The Red Sea (Red Sea Global)
Featuring up to 210 accommodations including 178 elegantly designed rooms and 32 super luxurious suites, guests can look forward to unwinding in serene spaces with sweeping island or beach views, walk-in showers, soaking tubs and complimentary premium toiletries by Byredo Bal d’Afrique. What’s more the property’s eco-conscious design, use of natural lighting and solar-powered systems ensure each stay is sustainable and sophisticated, seamlessly accommodating up to three adults in comfort and style.
For the ultimate wellness experiences, guests can awaken their mind, body and soul at The Spa InterContinental – a haven for stillness and renewal – with healing rituals, shaped by nature, culture and connection. Indulge in restorative facilities from a vitality pool and tailored massages to mindful yoga classes, all crafted to awaken calm, restore balance and leave you feeling transformed. But that’s not all. Prepare your palate for an exceptional culinary journey on Shura Island, from Darein’s bold Levantine-Moroccan flavours and Ardo’s fiery South American dishes to Chimes’ relaxed Mediterranean bites, Murrma’s speciality coffee and sweets and The 3O5’s vibrant menu inspired by Latin America.
Make the most of the coast at the InterContinental The Red Sea (Red Sea Global)
As part of Red Sea Global’s (RSG) unwavering commitment to redefining tourism in travel, Shura Island’s soft opening is just a glimpse of what’s to come. In the next phase of development, Shura Island will eventually become home to 11 world-class resorts alongside Shura Links golf course and a marina, meticulously tailored to suit its natural surroundings and dynamic atmosphere of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic islands on the Red Sea. Upon completion, the island will be fully transformed into one of the world’s most refined regenerative tourism destinations with unparalleled access to pristine natural landscapes, luxury lifestyle and wellness facilities, fine dining, high-end retail, unique cultural immersions and much more.
