The transformation of Saudi Arabia as a tourist destination is in full swing, as the country welcomes international visitors with open arms. As a result, it has become the fastest-growing tourism destination in the G20, with its mix of history, heritage, culture, coral-fringed beaches, and sunny weather drawing in many tourists. Amaala, which means ‘hope’ in Arabic and ‘purity’ in Sanskrit, is a resort in Saudi Arabia that embodies this transformation as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program to build a vibrant society, thriving economy, and ambitious nation. With over 1,600 square miles (4,155 square kilometers) of an unspoiled nature reserve, Amaala is a unique place known for its dramatic coastal scenery, majestic mountainous backdrops, pristine white-sand beaches, and untouched coastal reefs that are all within easy reach from major regional destinations such as Riyadh, Dubai, and Istanbul, with Paris, Rome, Berlin, and Mumbai all within six hours’ travel.
Six Senses Amaala is part of this exclusive resort and offers guests an experience of a lifetime. Their beachfront residences, hillside village, villas that line the private mangrove bay, and varied accommodation options to suit all guest preferences make Six Senses Amaala a canvas for a luxurious stay. The brand’s sustainable design standards blend the natural raw beauty of the site with understated purity and elegance effortlessly. Architects U+A and interiors by Studio Carter have designed the 64 rooms, 6 suites, 30 villas, and 25 branded residences, inspired by the region’s traditional coastal villages that seamlessly integrate with the naturally occurring topography and use locally sourced materials. All accommodation options enjoy panoramic views of the Hijaz Cove to the Red Sea.
The central attraction of the Six Senses Amaala resort is the dramatic Mesa, featuring spectacular overhangs and caves. The limestone formations are evidence of the ancient history of this land, with fossilized corals and mollusks on display. North of the resort is the long sweeping beach of Hijaz Cove, with a beach restaurant, family pool, and branded residences, while, to the south, the resort leads around the point to natural rock pools, pocket beaches, and a mangrove boardwalk. The spa, located in a private cove, has male and female thermal areas featuring Finnish and infrared saunas, herbal steam rooms, salt rooms, vitality pools, and ice baths, while the Watsu pool, sound dome, yoga platform, and multi-sensory relaxation areas are perfect for taking time to restore and reconnect.
Six Senses Amaala will also offer activities based on Amaala’s three pillars of ‘wellness and sports,’ ‘arts and culture,’ and ‘sea, sun, and lifestyle’. This resort has dedicated zones for kids and teens, prayer rooms, and communal lounges. In line with the Eat with Six Senses philosophy of natural ingredients, local and sustainable, all-day dining menus will feature Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. The juice bar, fermentation rooms, and ice cream will all be fresh and artisan, while the signature restaurant will offer Southeast Asian cuisine and barbecue foods.
Six Senses Amaala’s attention to sustainability is evident in every facet of the resort’s building and operating practices. It includes a dedicated desalination plant that has zero impact on the pristine coral reefs and a ban on single-use plastics. Wastewater and organic waste will be used for agriculture and the organic farm. Energy requirements will be met using renewable sources in line with the development’s zero carbon footprint. With the ambition to become a top diving and yachting destination, the emphasis on conserving the marine and coastal ecosystem is top priority.
Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs expressed his excitement for the partnership and said, “We are connected by a shared commitment to the practice, appreciation, and advancement of arts and culture, wellness, and environmental preservation,” adding, “Six Senses Amaala is part of a holistic hub for the arts, a leading diving destination, an extension of the Mediterranean yachting corridors, and an integrated wellness community, all of which we hope inspires guests to embark on transformative personal journeys.” Six Senses Amaala is set to open as part of the first phase of the Triple Bay development and is expected to become a leading destination for those looking for a luxurious stay in a unique destination.
