7 Saudi hotels have earned the prestigious Michelin Keys in the Michelin Guide’s first ever global ranking for their stunning design, service, and setting.
The hotels include Six Senses Southern Dunes, Shebara Resort, Nujuma Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Desert Rock Resort, Banyan Tree AlUla, Waldorf Astoria Jeddah, and St. Regis Red Sea Resort.
The awards reflect Saudi Arabia’s growing prominence in world class hospitality and Saudi Vision 2030 goal to become a leading global travel destination.
Earning 7 Michelin Keys
Saudi Arabia has recently made a huge mark on the global luxury hospitality scene by securing seven prestigious Michelin Keys. The Michelin Keys are a new accolade introduced by the Michelin Guide, which has long been synonymous with fine dining.
The Michelin Keys serve as a benchmark for excellence in hospitality, akin to the renowned Michelin Stars that celebrate culinary achievements.
This new recognition extends the brand’s legacy into the realm of hospitality, acknowledging hotels that offer exceptional experiences characterized by outstanding design, impeccable service, and a unique sense of place.
Understanding Michelin Keys Ratings
The Michelin Keys are categorized into three distinct levels, each reflecting the quality of the hotel experience:
- One Michelin Key: Denotes a very special stay characterized by unique charm and exceptional service.
- Two Michelin Keys: Represents an exceptional stay, showcasing a high level of care, character, and service.
- Three Michelin Keys: Signifies an extraordinary stay, where guests experience the pinnacle of luxury and comfort.
This structured rating system allows travelers to easily identify hotels that meet their expectations for quality and service.
The Award-Winning Hotels
Among the 2,457 hotels recognized globally, seven Saudi hotels stood out for their exceptional offerings. Each of these establishments reflects the Kingdom’s dedication to redefining luxury hospitality and showcases the unique cultural and natural beauty of the region.
Two-Michelin Key Hotels
Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea
Nestled in a breathtaking desert landscape, Six Senses Southern Dunes offers a luxurious escape that seamlessly blends sustainability with opulence.
The resort features an oasis-like collection of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and villas, all designed to provide an immersive experience in nature. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the rolling dunes and the distant Hijaz Mountains, making it a truly unique destination.
Shebara Resort
Located on a private island in the Red Sea, Shebara Resort is a marvel of modern architecture and eco-friendly design. The resort’s mirrored orbs reflect the surrounding waters, creating a stunning visual spectacle.
Inside, the villas are designed for ultimate comfort, featuring infinity pools and panoramic sea views. The resort offers a range of activities, from e-foiling to diving, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience.
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East, Nujuma is a sanctuary of luxury and privacy. Set on a serene archipelago, the resort features sculptural, solar-powered villas that blend harmoniously with the natural environment.
Guests can explore one of the world’s least-touched reef systems, engage with local culture at The Conservation House, and enjoy stargazing and guided nature walks.
Desert Rock Resort
Carved into the craggy cliffs of the Hijaz Mountains, Desert Rock Resort offers a unique blend of luxury and nature. The villas and suites are integrated into the landscape, providing breathtaking views of the open desert.
Floor-to-ceiling windows blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings.
One-Michelin Key Hotels
Banyan Tree AlUla
Situated in the enchanting Ashar Valley, Banyan Tree AlUla is a testament to the region’s rich history and natural beauty. The resort features 47 freestanding villas, each designed to provide a luxurious and tranquil retreat.
The accommodations are draped in tent-like shades, offering a unique blend of modern comfort and traditional aesthetics.
Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq
Waldorf Astoria Jeddah, known as Qasr Al Sharq, embodies the elegance and sophistication of the iconic brand. This luxurious hotel offers a unique experience that reflects the local culture while providing world-class amenities.
The design is tailored to the region, ensuring that guests feel a sense of place while enjoying the high standards associated with the Waldorf Astoria name.
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is a private island getaway that promises serenity and luxury. Accessible by a short seaplane ride, the resort features villas designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from water sports to relaxation on pristine beaches, all while experiencing the exceptional service that St. Regis is known for.
Aligning with Vision 2030
Saudi Vision 2030 aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading global travel destination. The recognition of these hotels is a clear indication that Saudi Arabia is on the right path.
The Michelin Keys will undoubtedly attract a new wave of international visitors seeking exceptional experiences. As travelers become more discerning, the demand for unique and high-quality accommodations will continue to rise.
The recognition of Saudi hotels will help to elevate the Kingdom’s profile on the global stage, making it a top choice for luxury travelers.
Shaping Luxury Hospitality
Saudi Arabia’s achievement of securing seven Michelin Keys is a monumental step in establishing the Kingdom as a premier luxury travel destination. The awarded hotels exemplify the best in design, service, and unique experiences, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.
As the Kingdom continues to evolve and embrace its potential, the future of luxury hospitality in Saudi Arabia looks incredibly promising. With the Michelin Keys as a guiding light, travelers can expect unparalleled experiences that will leave a lasting impression.
Upcoming Resorts on the Red Sea
Nammos Resort AMAALA
Red Sea Global has unveiled Nammos Resort AMAALA on the stunning Triple Bay area in Saudi Arabia.
Due to open in 2025, the resort will feature 110 ocean view rooms and 20 branded residences with unparalleled views toward the Red Sea and Hijazi mountains.
This is the first ever Nammos hotel outside Greece and will also offer a luxury spa, a fitness centre, and 4 fine dining venues.
New Branded Red Sea Residencies
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Residences has revealed new luxury Branded Residences available to buy at the stunning Red Sea destination.
Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton Reserve features 63 luxurious villas and 18 Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded residences offering panoramic Red Sea views on stunning Ummahat Island.
Jumeirah is offering 32 exclusive waterfront homes and Miraval residences are offering 20 beautiful beachfront homes and wellness focused living on the exquisite Shuru Island.
Red Sea Residencies
Red Sea Global has introduced Red Sea Branded Residences to the Saudi Red Sea Project with exclusive sea, golf, and marina views.
The residencies’ prices start at $1.47 million and are due to feature Four Seasons, Ennismore’s SLS, and Shura Marina Residences offering luxury villas, marina apartments, and exclusive facilities.
Red Sea Global has also already pre sold over 12% of its ultra luxury Red Sea Residences on the stunning Shura Island before the official market launch.
The residencies target regional and international buyers and are set to be completed by late 2025, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 to expand and redefine luxury tourism.
The Ritz-Carlton, AMAALA
Red Sea Global and Marriott have partnered to launch The Ritz-Carlton, AMAALA at Triple Bay in 2025.
Designed by Foster + Partners, this luxury resort will feature 391 rooms, 80% boasting breathtaking views of the Red Sea, direct beach access, wellness amenities, and various outdoor activities.
Once open, The Ritz-Carlton, AMAALA is expected to be the largest property within the Red Sea destination.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA
Red Sea Global and Four Seasons are preparing to launch Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at AMAALA Triple Bay in Saudi Arabia.
Created by U+A, a global architecture and design studio, the resort will offer 220 rooms and suites, private pools, a lavish spa, and 26 branded villas that provide stunning bay and sea views.
Scheduled to open in 2025 as part of AMAALA’s first phase, this project highlights Four Seasons’ dedication to supporting Saudi Arabia’s expanding tourism sector.
Four Seasons Resort Red Sea
Red Sea Global, renowned for its ambitious regenerative tourism initiatives, has joined hands with Kingdom Holding Company to create the Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, which will be set on Shura Island, the main hub island of the Red Sea destination.
This luxury resort will feature 149 rooms, suites, and 31 residential properties and is expected to open to guests by early 2025.
The Four Seasons Resort Red Sea, with its luxurious offerings, is a testament to the shared vision of creating extraordinary destinations that drive economic growth and job creation and preserve precious ecosystems.
Keep Reading: Red Sea Global on Track to Open 11 New Resorts and AMAALA by Early Next Year
