Ongoing expansion of the tourism industry in Saudi Arabia’s northern desert and Red Sea is to see the development of new eco-luxury resort that aims to bring sustainability and art together.
Being developed by the Royal Commission for AlUla, AZULIK AlUla will offer 76 luxury villas across six different standards, all of which will be set against an unobstructed backdrop of terracotta cliffs, towering dunes and ancient heritage sites.
The resort will also have a spa, welcome lounge and all-day dining restaurant. The Sfer Ik museum - a nature-inspired contemporary art space - will offer visitors a chance to see premium art products alongside AlUla's natural elements.
Located in the Nabatean Horizon District of the region’s Journey Through Time (JTT) masterplan, the resort will be tucked into canyons near the AlMutadil Equestrian Village development and Wadi AlFann, an ancient valley that will soon be home to large-scale artworks in the dramatic desert landscape.
Planned to open in 2027, guests staying at the resort will have several opportunities to connect with the unique heritage of the region, including access to nearby ancient rock art inscriptions, which the resort will help to safeguard.
To ensure the surrounding lands are protected, no private cars will be allowed at AZULIK AlUla and guests will instead travel around via an all-electric vehicles, or on horse or camel back.
Stunning hiking trails cut through the surrounding cliffs, allowing those who prefer to wander on foot plenty of opportunities to self-explore.
The property's flowing design is inspired by the natural ecosystems and towering sandstone cliffs in this part of the kingdom, and it will be constructed using local and natural materials. It will also make use of a natural system of existing waterways for irrigation and safeguarding against floods.
Designed in line with the AlUla Sustainability Charter, the resort will be designed by Roth Architecture, constructed with the lowest possible environmental impact and operated by Mexican luxury brand AZULIK.
Introducing the resort, AZULIK Chief Executive and founder, Eduardo Neira explained “we feel honoured to bring Azulik's vision to AlUla (so) it is with gratitude and profound respect that we embark a journey into AlUla’s vibrant heritage and culture.
“Rooted in its unique natural landscape, we begin a project that is both close to our heart and our brand values. These are our first steps together and I’m confident we will walk a beautiful and exciting path,” said Eduardo Neira, chief executive and founder of Azulik.
As well as offering guests a unique place from where to explore the ancient lands of AlUla, the resort is expected to create more than 300 new jobs in the region.
Images: Saudi Arabi'a Azulik AlUla Resort aims to combine art and sustainability in a unique landscape. Credit: The Royal Commission for AlUla.
About the author
Nigel Benton
Co-founder/Publisher, Australasian Leisure Management
Born in the English county of Dorset, Nigel Benton is the co-founder and Publisher of Australasian Leisure Management, Australia, New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific’s only magazine for professionals in all areas of the leisure industry and the www.ausleisure.com.au website - the go to news resource for industry leaders and professionals.
With a long-term commitment to communicating all that is best about the leisure industry (aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues) his career has been defined by an ability to develop and implement industry communications.
Starting his career working in heritage visitor attractions and then adventure travel in Africa and the Middle East, an interest in writing about his experiences led to his change of career into magazine journalism and publishing.
In addition to publishing, Nigel speaks on marketing communications at a range of industry events.
He was made a Life Member of the World Leisure and Recreation Association in 2006 and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (London).
In 2020, he launched the new Asian Leisure Business website.
As of October 2024, he was inducted into the Australian Fitness Awards Roll of Honour at the 2024 AUSactive National Awards.
Among a range of published works and features, his comments on a Blog (blogspot) from 2007 to 2011, when this website went live in its current form, may be interesting to reflect back on.
His philosophy on life is to be kind to all and to indulge those that you love.
His passions include family, Newcastle United and motorcycles (especially British ones) as well, until February 2025 when she left us, caring a little pug named Stella.
Click here to connect with him via LinkedIn.
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