Six Senses Amaala: A Unique Guest Experience in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is increasingly welcoming international visitors. This makes it the fastest growing destination in the G20, thanks to its mix of history, heritage, culture, coral-fringed beaches and sunshine.

Derived from the Arabic word for hope and the Sanskrit word for purity, Amaala embodies this change as part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programme to build a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an ambitious nation. The region spans 4,155 square kilometres of pristine conservation area and is blessed with dramatic coastal scenery, majestic mountain backdrops, white sandy beaches and pristine coastal reefs - all within close proximity to major regional destinations such as Riyadh, Dubai and Istanbul, while Paris, Rome, Berlin and Mumbai are all within six hours.

Six Senses Amaala will serve as a canvas on which to paint once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Integrated into the unique landscape, the beachfront and hillside residences, as well as the villas that line the private mangrove bay, offer diverse accommodation options for all guests. They combine the natural, rugged beauty of the location with the simple purity and elegance of the brand's sustainable design standards.

The 64 rooms, six suites, 30 villas and 25 Six Senses residences are designed by architects U+A, with interiors by Studio Carter. Inspired by the region's traditional coastal villages, which blend seamlessly into the natural topography, locally sourced materials have been used. The accommodation will be situated on one of the most dramatic landforms along Amaala's Triple Bay, offering panoramic views across Hijaz Bay to the Red Sea. The winding roads and paths that criss-cross the grounds lead to enchanting spots overlooking Pura Bay and its shimmering blue lagoons.

The central feature of the site is the dramatic mesa with its spectacular overhangs and caves. Eons of wind and water erosion have scratched the limestone, revealing fossilised corals and molluscs that bear witness to the ancient history of this land. To the north, the village opens onto the long, sweeping beaches of Hijaz Cove, where there is a beach restaurant, family pool and the residences. To the south, the village wraps around the headland to natural rock pools, small beaches and a mangrove boardwalk that leads to the spa, which is set in a private cove.

Six Senses Spa

Spa facilities include a cryotherapy chamber, a longjevity centre, and thermal areas for men and women with Finnish and infrared saunas, herbal steam rooms, salt rooms, vitality pools and ice baths. The Watsu pool, sound dome, yoga platform and multi-sensory relaxation areas will serve to take time to unwind and recharge your batteries.

Tailor-made experiences

The resort's facilities will be complemented by a variety of activities based on the three pillars of "wellness and sports", "art and culture" and "sea, sun and lifestyle". Guests will be immersed in the flavours and tastes of the region at the coffee roastery, bakery, water bar and shisha tea house. There are also clubs for children and youth, prayer rooms and community lounges. In keeping with Eat With Six Senses' philosophy of natural ingredients, local and sustainable produce and less is more, the all-day dining menus will feature Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. The juice bar, fermentation rooms and ice cream will all be fresh, and the main restaurant will offer Southeast Asian cuisine and grilled dishes.

"We are united by a shared commitment to the pursuit, appreciation and promotion of arts and culture, wellness and environmental conservation," says Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs. "Six Senses Amaala is part of a holistic hub for the arts, a leading dive destination, an extension of the Mediterranean yacht corridors and an integrated wellness community that we hope will inspire guests to embark on transformative personal journeys."

Six Senses Residences

The 25 Six Senses residences, ranging from three to six bedrooms, have been carefully positioned to balance seclusion with moments of togetherness, while opening up to uninterrupted views of the coastline.
The central courtyards connect the individual residential pavilions and reflect the typical architecture and way of life of the Arabian Peninsula.

Sustainability is at the heart of every facet of the resort's construction and operational measures. These include a dedicated desalination plant that has no impact on the pristine coral reefs and a ban on single-use plastic. All wastewater and organic waste is used for agriculture and the organic farm. Energy needs are met from renewable sources, so the project's carbon footprint is zero. With the aim of becoming a premier diving and yachting destination, emphasis is placed on preserving the marine and coastal ecosystem.

John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, the developer of Amaala, added: "I am very pleased to announce this partnership based on shared values with such a well-known brand. The resort is located in one of the most dramatic landscapes along Triple Bay, with a stunning backdrop of the bay itself and panoramic views of the pristine Red Sea coastline. This announcement also comes at an exciting time, as we are about to welcome the first guests to Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, which will open in the coming months. Our growing relationship with the Six Senses brand in our expanding portfolio reflects our belief in the quality of operations they bring to each property and our shared commitment to protecting and enhancing the environment."

Six Senses Amaala is scheduled to open as part of the first phase of the Triple Bay project.

Photo credit: © Six Senses Hotels