In early July, I embarked on a journey to Saudi Arabia, a country that had always piqued my curiosity. Expecting extreme heat, I was pleasantly surprised by cool mornings and only the warmth of the afternoon sun. Despite my initial concerns, summer in Saudi Arabia turned out to be a delightful experience, made even more memorable by the incredible hospitality and luxurious resorts.
1. Habitas AlUla: A Sanctuary of Tranquility
My adventure began at Habitas AlUla, a resort that embodied peace and serenity. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with fragrant tea and a calming check-in ritual that helped me embrace the tranquil desert atmosphere.
The Rooms
The spacious and elegantly designed rooms were a perfect blend of luxury and nature. Without TVs, I was drawn to the breathtaking views of towering desert formations just outside my door. Every amenity I could need was thoughtfully provided, from the plush bed to the well-stocked shower.
The Pool
Imagine floating in a pool, surrounded by massive rock formations in the middle of the desert. That’s what Habitas offered. With mocktails in hand, I enjoyed a truly “breathtaking” experience. Fun fact: this region was once underwater millions of years ago, explaining the beautiful etchings on the boulders.
The Food
Every meal at Habitas was a culinary delight, bursting with flavors that left me longing to return for more.
Activities
For an adventurous soul like mine, rock climbing the massive boulders was a thrill, and jumping off them added an exhilarating touch to my stay.
2. Banyan Tree AlUla: Desert Luxury
A short drive from Habitas brought me to Banyan Tree AlUla, offering a completely different yet equally luxurious vibe. My private pool and room were enclosed under a grand tent, adding a sense of exclusivity to the experience.
The Pool
The main pool, nestled between two colossal boulders, was breathtaking. Swimming to the edge, I was met with a view that felt like a dream, while sipping on refreshing drinks (no alcohol, of course) in the serene desert atmosphere.
The Food
The breakfast at Banyan Tree was delightful, but the real treat was at a local restaurant called Somewhere, where I enjoyed a delicious oasis-inspired meal.
Activities
The adventures continued with a hot air balloon ride over Hegra, offering stunning views of ancient archaeological sites. I also visited the iconic Elephant Rock, where I enjoyed a private desert setup with shisha, and later explored the awe-inspiring Maraya Concert Hall, a massive glass structure that shimmered in the desert sun.
A special memory at Banyan Tree was the indulgence of a floating breakfast, served right by the pool—an unforgettable way to start the day.
3. Six Senses Red Sea Dunes: The Epitome of Luxury
My final stop was the newly opened Six Senses Red Sea Dunes, a luxurious oasis by the Red Sea. Upon arrival, I was treated to the best gelato I’ve ever tasted, which was the perfect refreshment after traveling.
The Design & Rooms
The resort’s design was unmatched, offering the ultimate in luxury. My room featured marble tables, leather chairs, double gold-trimmed sinks, and both indoor and outdoor showers. With a private pool overlooking the dunes, I felt like I had my own personal spa. To top it all off, I had the entire resort to myself for my first day, making the experience even more exclusive.
Activities
One of the highlights was making handmade soap, a fun and creative activity that added a personal touch to my stay.
The Food
Every meal was exquisite, but the standout was Umm Ali, a warm dessert made with crushed croissants, condensed milk, and pistachios. It was so addictive that I couldn’t get enough of it.
Final Thoughts
From the serene tranquility of Habitas AlUla, to the tented luxury at Banyan Tree AlUla, and the cutting-edge opulence of Six Senses Red Sea Dunes, this trip exceeded all my expectations. The hospitality, the food, and the unique activities all made this adventure a 10/10.
Saudi Arabia is a land of surprises, offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. If you’re curious about booking or need more details, feel free to reach out to me via email or Instagram.