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Saudi Arabia’s first Banyan Tree Resort is set to open in Al Ula as part of the Kingdom’s efforts for it to become an immersive tourism destination.
Expanding upon Al Ula’s pre-existing Ashar Resort, the upcoming Accor-managed property will eventually cater to 82 high-end villas, along with a luxury spa and several gourmet restaurants. This will be guided by a sensitive design that allows each villa to blend discreetly into the striking natural scenery of the Ashar valley, located 15km from the Kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra.
Ashar valley is the location of the Maraya Hall, a multi-purpose exhibition, conference and entertainment venue, the largest mirrored structure in the world, which will also drive local economic diversification by hosting cultural events, business gatherings and conferences. These have included the Hegra Conference for Nobel Laureates and global figures such as Andrea Bocelli, Majida Al Roumi and Lionel Richie.
“This new partnership demonstrates how AlUla’s unique appeal as a cultural, heritage and nature destination fits with Accor’s Banyan Tree brand, which is synonymous with authentically unique experiences. We’re working with the world’s best developers and hotel operators to deliver projects that complement our cultural oasis, as well as benefitting our local community,” said the CEO of Royal Commission for Al Ula, Amr Al Madani.
While the official opening date of the Banyan Tree resort is yet to be decided, the Royal Commission for Al Ula has revealed there are 15 other hospitality projects in the pipeline over the coming months, including three highly-anticipated Aman properties.
