Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of AlUla, an ancient desert city in Saudi Arabia, Banyan Tree AlUla officially welcomed its first guests on October 21, marking the completion of its luxurious resort offerings in the enchanting Ashar Valley.
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A Seamless Blend of Nature and Heritage
Banyan Tree AlUla is a stunning five-star all-villa resort and the brand’s inaugural property in the region. The design beautifully integrates with the surrounding environment, showcasing elements inspired by the nomadic Nabataean culture and the Bedouin heritage that has thrived in the area for centuries. With 79 private villas, guests are immersed in a multi-sensory experience that reflects the tranquil beauty of the landscape.
This resort joins the nearby Habitas Resort AlUla, which opened in late 2021. Known for its sustainable and experience-driven hospitality, Habitas emphasizes community, music, wellness, arts, and creativity, making it a fitting complement to a destination that has served as a crossroads for civilizations over millennia. Habitas offers unique accommodations like Caravan by Habitas—luxurious retro RVs that provide an adventurous outdoor glamping experience.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Both Banyan Tree AlUla and Habitas Resort are committed to minimizing their ecological footprint, featuring sand-colored canopies and landscaping that harmonize with the desert’s natural beauty. The recent completion of accommodations in Ashar Valley is set to attract international travelers seeking an exclusive, authentic experience, with access restricted to event and resort guests only.
The Ashar Valley’s natural beauty is shaped by millions of years of geological history, boasting epic canyons and stunning rock formations that transform with the light from sunrise to sunset.
Maraya Events and Entertainment Hub
The resorts are strategically positioned for guests attending events at Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, which serves as a multi-purpose concert and entertainment venue. Reflecting the majestic mountains and sand dunes, Maraya hosts a variety of events, including the ongoing AlUla Moments winter concert series featuring artists like OneRepublic and John Legend, as well as prestigious conferences such as the Hegra Conference of Nobel Laureates and Friends.
Wellness and Relaxation
The serene setting of Ashar Valley is ideal for wellness retreats, with Banyan Tree AlUla offering a spa experience that embodies its renowned global standards. Guests can indulge in treatments that fuse local and Eastern healing rituals, unwind by a tranquil rock pool, or participate in wellness activities amidst stunning natural vistas.
Habitas AlUla features Thuraya Wellness, named after a star constellation historically used by Bedouins for navigation. This wellness center includes a peaceful lounge, a spa, a fitness center, an outdoor wellness agora, and a yoga studio, with regular yoga sessions and popular massage treatments available.
Culinary Delights
The addition of two new restaurants at Banyan Tree AlUla enriches the dining scene in Ashar Valley.
- Saffron, Banyan Tree’s signature Thai restaurant, offers contemporary Thai cuisine prepared by expert chefs, introducing the vibrant flavors of Thailand to Saudi Arabia for the first time.
- Harrat serves as an ode to North West Arabian cuisine, featuring a diverse menu that includes seafood, Middle Eastern mezze, pasta, and grilled meats.
At Habitas Resort, Tama (meaning “here and now” in Aramaic) presents dishes that highlight the unique spices of the Arabian Peninsula, all served in a stunning setting overlooking the infinity pool. The rooftop restaurant Maraya Social at the mirrored venue offers a fine selection of dishes, with a focus on local ingredients.
Art and Adventure in Ashar Valley
Art in Ashar Valley extends beyond culinary delights; the area is rich with natural artistry and cultural installations. Guests can explore rock formations and ancient petroglyphs while hiking the stunning trails. Habitas AlUla showcases artworks from the Desert X AlUla 2020 edition, including Manal Al Dowayan’s interactive trampolines and Lita Albuquerque’s striking blue sculpture.
For those seeking adventure, horseback riding through the majestic canyons and valleys offers an unforgettable experience, especially at sunrise and sunset. Guests can also partake in guided explorations, stargazing, Bedouin camp dinners, and various cultural activities.
Convenient Access to AlUla
Visiting AlUla is now more accessible than ever, with direct international flights from Dubai and Cairo, as well as daily flights from major Saudi cities like Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah. Travelers can also connect through Medina or Tabuk, making Ashar Valley a must-visit destination for those in search of an extraordinary desert retreat.
