Introducing Shebara Resort: Luxury at Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, November – In a spectacular Red Sea setting that takes life far beyond the ordinary, the new Shebara Resort invites guests to dive into timeless experiences centered on unparalleled luxury. Combining one-of-a-kind architecture with interiors centered on thoughtful artisanship, Shebara respects the natural environment in which it makes its home. Surrounded by pristine Red Sea waters filled with extraordinary biodiversity of marine species and healthy corals, Shebara is rooted in the Saudi tradition of Hafawah—genuine, caring hospitality that comes from the heart—while embracing innovative design and the ethos of regenerative tourism.

A year-round destination with summer temperatures that are far more comfortable than in other parts of the Arabian Peninsula, Shebara is located 25 kilometers from the mainland. Reached by a 30- to 40-minute boat ride or a 30-minute seaplane flight from Red Sea International Airport (RSI), the 73 overwater and beach villas of Shebara welcome guests with spectacular architecture and design alongside thrilling underwater activities, exceptional cuisine, a spa that embraces the power of nature, and plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun, sea, and sand.

At Shebara, Killa Design has created architecture that is like nothing the hospitality world has seen before. The villas are inspired by the sea, representing a string of pearls that looks almost as if it has risen out of the crystal-clear waters. Refracting sky and sea, the stainless-steel overwater orbs almost disappear into the horizon. The villas possess both a futuristic and a timeless quality, cantilevered over the water to minimize impact and provide space for regenerative coral gardening, giving guests the feeling that they are completely at one with the surrounding seascapes, with extraordinary views from the pool terrace and deck. On the shore, Shebara’s beachfront villas sit on soft white sands, hugged by landscaping featuring native plants, and offering direct access to the island’s beautiful beaches.

Inside the villas, interiors by Studio Paolo Ferrari reflect the exterior architecture in what the designer calls “naturalistic futurism,” creating a guest experience that looks to the future while expressing a deeply human quality. Interiors are anchored in craft and tailored materials, such as cast glass, travertine, oak, and leather. There is a sense of being on an ultra-luxury super yacht; the elegance and sophisticated finishes create a balance between experimentation and timelessness that connects to the external architecture and surrounding nature.

Accommodations range from the 188-square-meter One-Bedroom Overwater Villas to the Beachfront Royal Villa Ensemble, combining the four-bedroom Royal Villa and three one-bedroom villas on an islet that can be privatized and even has its own yacht dock. All villas come with private pools and an unmatched sense of drama.

Shebara’s five restaurants and bars focus on culinary excellence, modern innovation, and exceptional artisanship, with interiors by Rockwell Group referencing the underwater world through elements inspired by the flora and fauna of the Red Sea. Guests can watch the talented team of chefs hard at work in the interactive kitchen at iki.roe, where they create modern Nikkei cuisine and omakase menus. At Ariamare, Chef Marco Garfagnini brings a wealth of experience from Michelin-starred restaurants around the world, resulting in dishes infused with culinary creativity, Italian panache, and a respect for the finest quality ingredients.

At seaside brasserie Lunara, open throughout the day, spectacular views combine with culinary artistry in menus of comforting classics and family favorites. At beachside Saria, Levantine cuisine is served alongside relaxing vibes and a warm welcome. At adults-only Solera, expertly crafted beverages are served in a dazzling poolside setting that offers unforgettable views of cinematic Red Sea sunsets.

The opportunities to dive in and explore the waters of the Red Sea are practically limitless at Shebara. Overwater activities like stand-up paddling (SUP), kayaking, transparent crystal kayaking, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing are all available for those who love to get out on the water or for guests who would like to learn a new skill. The team at Shebara is always on hand to offer lessons and guidance to beginners.

In line with the resort’s strict sustainable tourism ethos, a number of electric-powered water sports are also on offer. E-SUP, E-foils, and E-foil scooters are available for those who want to experience the thrill of gliding on the water’s surface, and for those looking for even more adrenaline, E-surfing and E-bodyboarding are available, as well as wakeboarding and wakesurfing behind the resort’s E-boat.

Below the surface of these biodiverse waters are entire underwater worlds waiting to be discovered. Snorkeling excursions around the resort’s house reef offer opportunities to see the colorful fish that make these waters their home. Head to the outer reefs to see even more marine species, including turtles, sharks, and beautifully intact and healthy corals. For those looking for a glimpse into an even more secretive world, night snorkels offer the chance to see mesmerizing bioluminescence.

Divers will fall in love with the Red Sea waters here. A diverse range of PADI-certified diving courses is available at Shebara, ranging from Bubble Maker sessions for children to Discover Scuba Diving and Open Water courses for beginners, as well as Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver courses for those wanting to push themselves even further. There are few places on Earth that offer such incredible opportunities to see a diverse range of marine life in completely uncrowded waters. All marine activities are conducted with responsibility, sustainability, and regenerative practices in mind.

The Spa at Shebara is a haven of relaxation, rejuvenation, and regeneration of body and soul, designed by Rockwell Group to incorporate earth tones and materials that convey a sense of grounding. Treatments are centered on renowned skincare brand AMRA, formulated in the United Kingdom and celebrated for its exceptional quality and effectiveness, and Swiss-made Dr. Burgener products, known for blending science with nature to deliver outstanding results and advanced skincare innovations. Therapies and rituals draw inspiration from nature and the power of the sea, using precious ingredients like Tahitian black pearl, green caviar, and mineral-rich extracts from meteorites.

Five indoor treatment rooms, three outdoor cabanas, and an outdoor vitality pool are complemented by extensive facilities, including Jacuzzis, steam and sauna, and salons for men and women. The expertly equipped 24-hour fitness center and onsite team of personal trainers cater to fitness enthusiasts of all levels, helping guests achieve their health and wellness goals around the clock.