GCC-born luxury ecolodge brand and management company, ENVI Lodges, has announced the unique location of its latest project, ENVI Laguna Bay, situated on the unspoiled Red Sea coast in Saudi Arabia. This highly anticipated development, a collaboration with Al Rasim Hotels & Resorts, will be nestled within the picturesque King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), boasting a prime beachfront surrounded by thriving mangroves.
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A Blend of Luxury and Sustainability
ENVI Laguna Bay will set a new standard for eco-friendly tourism in the region, featuring 40 exquisitely designed beach pods, each with private pools. The renowned global architecture firm Gensler has meticulously crafted these pods to blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings. The facilities will cater to both families and wellness enthusiasts, offering a kids’ club, an activities center, and a well-being hub complete with a yoga deck for guests seeking rejuvenation amidst nature.
In alignment with ENVI Lodges’ commitment to preserving the environment, a ceremonial planting of local mango trees was held at the project site. This symbolic gesture reflects the ecolodge’s sustainability ethos and plays an important role in the architectural inspiration of the project. The event was attended by senior executives from Al Rasim Hotels & Resorts, ENVI Lodges, and KAEC, celebrating the shared vision for an eco-friendly future.
CEO Remarks: The Future of Eco-Tourism in KAEC
Aiad Mushaikh, CEO of Al Rasim Hotels & Resorts, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “King Abdullah Economic City will host the first eco-friendly coastal resort in the distinguished and captivating Laguna area. This collaboration introduces the ENVI Lodges brand to the thriving tourism market in Saudi Arabia, with Al Rasim continually investing in unique hospitality projects that allow the discovery of the natural beauty of the Red Sea coastline.”
A key feature of the project is its commitment to the regeneration of local mangroves, which flourish in this area of KAEC. The ecolodge’s holistic approach to luxury tourism ensures that guests will have the opportunity to engage with their natural surroundings through eco-conscious activities such as non-motorized water sports, designed to maintain the tranquility of the environment.
Mushaikh further emphasized that ENVI’s focus on eco-friendly hospitality will set a new benchmark for sustainable coastal resorts on the Red Sea. The project will offer guests the chance to experience the Kingdom’s rich landscapes, heritage, and culture in a way that supports both the environment and local communities.
A Vision Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
With sustainability pillars rooted in environment, community, and culture, ENVI Laguna Bay aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the country’s tourism sector. The project is seen as a key contributor to this ambitious plan, offering a unique luxury experience that emphasizes the conservation of Saudi Arabia’s natural resources and heritage.
Cyril Piaia, CEO of KAEC, highlighted the importance of this partnership, saying, “We are delighted with our collaboration with Al-Rasim and look forward to the fruitful results that will align with our strategic vision to boost tourism in KAEC. Our goal is to create attractive tourism and entertainment destinations, leveraging KAEC’s prime location on the Red Sea coast.”
Strategic Location for a Global Destination
ENVI Laguna Bay’s location is a significant advantage. Situated just one hour by road from Jeddah and conveniently connected to the city’s airport via the high-speed train, the ecolodge will serve as a preferred destination for eco-conscious travelers seeking a unique barefoot luxury escape. According to Chris Nader, Co-Founder of ENVI Lodges, “We envision the lodge as a top choice for Jeddah residents as well as domestic and international visitors looking for an unparalleled luxury experience close to Saudi Arabia’s second-largest city.”
The Next Step in Sustainable Tourism
This announcement follows ENVI Lodges’ reveal of its other Saudi Arabian project, ENVI Al Nakheel, a luxury sustainable lodge located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Al Ahsa Oasis. Both ENVI Laguna Bay and ENVI Al Nakheel are expected to open in 2024, offering visitors a fresh perspective on eco-conscious luxury tourism in the Kingdom.
ENVI Laguna Bay promises to not only elevate the tourism experience in Saudi Arabia but also serve as a model for integrating sustainability and luxury on the world stage.
