Enveloped by the majestic Saudi Arabian desert, Six Senses Southern Dunes – The Red Sea is an out-of-the ordinary journey of discovery, enrichment and the brand’s trademark wellness experience.
Fredrik Blomqvist, General Manager of Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea said: “Everything we’re doing here reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation, while also pushing the boundaries of adventure and wellness. This part of the world holds much intrigue for visitors and immense potential for regenerative tourism. We aim to showcase the unique beauty and cultural richness of this region, while promoting sustainable tourism practices that contribute to the economic growth of the region and the conservation of its heritage.”
The Resort
The resort’s architecture, design elements, and landscaping reflect the region’s Nabataean cultural roots. The 36 guest rooms and 40 pool villas are dotted in strategic locations to maximize the expansive views of the dunes and wadi.
Constructed using locally sourced materials, they were designed by British architectural firm Foster + Partners, renowned for its eco credentials. As beautiful on the inside as the outside, the soft furnishings draw from the rich colours and patterns of traditional Bedouin dresses.
Aiming to be the first LEED Platinum resort in Saudi Arabia, its electricity is powered entirely by its solar farm. Still and sparkling water are bottled at the on-site water plant and follow a plastic-free policy. The resort’s Earth Lab offers workshops that bring conservation to life in playful and engaging ways.
Gastronomy & Activities
True to the Eat With Six Senses ethos, the resort’s gastronomy uses ingredients grown in the Chef’s Garden or sourced locally and focuses on health and well-being while celebrating the flavours and aromas of the region. The resort has four restaurants, including a cooking school and private chef’s table, plus a Gelato Pod.
For the wellness-minded, meditation and yoga sessions in a desert or oasis setting are designed to help guests connect with inner peace and offer a unique and immersive way to connect with the natural world. In addition to a plethora of outdoor pursuits, the resort also offers a range of activities and experiences that showcase the rich history and traditions of Saudi Arabia including artisan workshops. Guests can get involved in everything from sadu weaving to local fishing and cooking, and the on-site Artisan Village recounts the story of the region’s history by showcasing arts and crafts, dance, and music.
The Spa
The honeycomb walls of Six Senses Spa mirror the familiar undulating patterns of the dunes, guiding guests to a salon, barber, biohacking recovery lounge, and onwards to three single and two double treatment rooms and a hammam. The Frankincense Suite offers Rasul treatments. There’s also an Alchemy Bar to handmake clean skincare products using the rich spices and fragrances once traded by the Nabateans. The Arabic influences are found on the Desert Bliss quartz sand treatment bed and during the anti-ageing Deluxe Gold Hammam.
On the floor above there’s a fully equipped gym, a separate spin studio and a suite for yoga and aerial yoga, all with desert views. Each changing area offers various saunas, a cold plunge pool, a steam room, and a relaxation room.
To get to the resort, guests can avail of a 45-minute private car transfer from the new Red Sea International Airport, which takes guests southeast along the coastal highway before turning east inland through serene desert mountains and narrow wadis and on to the resort. Alternatively, guests can opt for a domestic flight from Yanbu Airport followed by a two-hour transfer to the resort. Al Ula Airport can be reached within 4.5 hours and Jeddah Airport within 5 hours.
