Brightsun’s Ultimate Guide to Saudi’s New Luxury Destination - The Red Sea

Discover this hidden wonder in Saudi Arabia where luxury and nature meet at a crossroad of land and sea, and a place that has a rich culture and fascinating history.

Located along the west coast of Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea is one of the world’s last hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Just an 8-hour flight away from the UK, the region is surrounded by the world's fourth-largest barrier reef system and boasts more than 90 untouched islands, 50 dormant volcanos, sweeping desert dunes, majestic mountain canyons, and a thriving coral reef.  Not only this, the Red Sea is also big on sustainability, putting a cap on visitors, zero carbon footprint, and 100% renewable energy.

Why Visit the Red Sea?

More than 90 pristine islands to explore

Be among the first ones to visit this brand-new destination in Saudi. With over 90 pristine islands out of which 22 have been developed and are filled with rich flora and fauna, you can embark on adventures like never before. It is one of the last untouched regions with natural beauty, completely untarnished by overcrowding. What’s unique is that annual visitors will be capped at one million by 2030 to protect and preserve the local ecosystems, and even enhance it for the generations to come.

Incredible coral reefs

Did you know the Red Sea’s Al Wajh Lagoon is home to the world’s fourth-largest coral reef system? With Red Sea International airport open, it is now easily accessible to travellers from around the world. An undiscovered diver’s paradise, the Red Sea offers exciting diving opportunities with crystal blue waters and clear visibility, full of 280 species of fish and 314 protected corals. Additionally, divers can explore an 18th century shipwreck that is currently the best-preserved wooden shipwreck in the Red Sea.

Six undiscovered inland sites

Saudi's Red Sea coast extends over 1,000 miles, spanning from the northern border with Jordan to Yemen in the south. The region offers beautiful topography with sweeping sand dunes, red granite rocks, and mountains offering challenging trails for hiking and biking. The Southern Dunes is the best place to enjoy all this along with other fantastic experiences like outdoor dining, stargazing, and luxury glamping. There’s also a rich array of cultural experiences to indulge in, whether it's an Arabian feast with local desert tribes, a yoga class in the dunes, a sunset poetry recital, or a traditional musical performance.

A host of luxury resorts that meet all your needs

Shura Island, Ummahat islands and Sheybarah island are the three top island destinations in the Red Sea with several flagship luxury resorts in the pipeline. Shura Island will be home to 11 world-class resorts and hotels set to open in 2025 from brands like Fairmont, Intercontinental, and Grand Hyatt. Ummahat islands feature The Ritz Carlton Reserve and The St Regis, of which the latter is now open for guests. Sheybarah island, on the other hand will feature a flagship hotel of its own. Additionally, the Red Sea has two inland resorts Six Senses (open now) and Desert Rock.  

How to Reach the Red Sea

The Red Sea is well positioned on the west coast of Saudi and is only a 1.5-hour flight away from Jeddah and Riyadh with its own dedicated international airport. Saudi Arabia is just an 8-hour flight away from the UK with several international airlines taking you there in style like Emirates, Saudia, and British Airways, offering direct flights to Jeddah and Riyadh from where travellers can further fly to the Red Sea or enjoy a scenic drive from Jeddah (the Red Sea is a 6-hour drive from Jeddah). After reaching the destination, electric sustainable vehicles are available to get around, such as electric cars, electric boats, and seaplanes.

Best Time to Visit

The Red Sea is a year-round destination with 360 days of sunshine and an average temperature of 32 °C. The warmer season starts from mid-April to November and daily temperatures are constantly above the 30 °C mark. The cooler season from mid-November to March on the islands sees an average temperature of 24-26 C° during the day. In the mountains, it can drop to 12 °C whereas in the deserts it can drop to 18 °C. Book your outdoor activities confidently knowing the sky will remain blue all day, and at night, bask under a clear sky sparkling with stars.

Where to Stay

Six Senses Southern Dunes

Six Senses Southern Dunes is inspired by the Nabataean heritage and majestic desert landscape of the Red Sea, along with the Six Senses’ trademark wellness formula. The resort offers 36 rooms and suites and 40 luxury villas, as well as an outdoor pool, spa, kids’ club and community lounge. It also has 5 onsite dining options with curated experiences inspired by Saudi’s rich culinary culture and locally sourced ingredients. Six Senses also offers unique experiences; visit The Artisan Village to learn about the region’s cultural heritage or enjoy a range of activities such as sustainability workshops and fire pit rituals under the canopy of the Oasis at the heart of the resort.

St. Regis The Red Sea

Discover inner peace on the serene Ummahat Island at The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, where 90 stunning avant-garde villas embellish the landscape and welcome you with a host of luxurious experiences. The resort is only a short boat or seaplane journey away from the airport and features a cutting-edge fitness centre, kid’s club, and state-of-the-art spa and pool. Personalised services, including the signature St. Regis Butler Service, ensure all your needs are met. Additionally, three distinctive restaurants merge the warm Saudi hospitality with unparalleled fine dining.