As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its luxury hotel offerings, the newly opened Desert Rock Resort stands out for its stunning terrain and exceptional service. While discussions about the benefits of Saudi Arabia versus the Maldives have arisen with the opening of other Red Sea Global resorts like the futuristic Shebara, Desert Rock stands alone. It offers a truly unique experience that blends opulence with nature’s grandeur.
Nestled amid towering mountains marked by caves, Desert Rock Resort is a 20-minute drive from Red Sea International Airport. The resort features an array of accommodations, including 32 Wadi Villas on the valley floor, 17 Cliff Hanging Villas, four Mountain Crevice Villas, one Royal Villa, and 10 Mountain Cave Suites carved directly into the rockface itself. Each room comes with private, temperature-controlled pools and luxury amenities such as Dyson hairdryers, Frette sheets, and high-end poolside accessories. An assigned “Villa Host” is available through WhatsApp to cater to every guest’s need.
The resort’s Mountain Cave Suites offer Instagram-worthy views of endless desert landscapes and rust-colored mountains, making them popular among influencers. For larger groups, the two-bedroom Mountain Crevice Skyline Villa features a conversation-starting bathtub that can comfortably fit five people. Additionally, it has a glass-ringed fire pit perfect for cozy gatherings.
On the valley floor, Oppenheim Architecture’s bunker-like designs blend seamlessly with the Martian-like terrain. The resort’s interior, curated by Toronto’s Studio Paolo Ferrari, exudes luxury with earthy tones and stone and bronze accents. This makes the large villas and suites both opulent and warm. Each detail at Desert Rock, from the chic wooden key cards to the sleek, minimalist furnishings, enhances the overall experience.
Adventure is also a key aspect of Desert Rock. Guests can test their limits on activities such as ziplining, rock climbing, and abseiling at the Akun adventure hub. For the daring, a steep climb leads to the resort’s observatory. Here, a rope bridge and 622 steps reward the brave with breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. However, the resort’s commitment to providing an immersive, challenging experience is evident. Accessibility may be an issue for those with physical disabilities.
Travel within the resort is primarily by buggy, as the sprawling property spans across various terrains. For dining, the resort offers four standout eateries: NYRA, helmed by Michelin-starred Turkish chef Osman Sezener; MICA, a trendy mocktail bar serving small plates; Basalt, which transforms from a breakfast spot to an Indian restaurant at night; and Wadi, which offers vibrant Peruvian cuisine. Dishes like tender beef tongue and expertly presented seafood highlight the resort’s culinary excellence. Beverage pairings are designed to elevate every meal.
The resort also boasts a luxurious spa offering sweeping views of craggy cliffs. It features both indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a water therapy room, and a couple’s hammam. With its blend of serene luxury and adventure, Desert Rock Resort offers a one-of-a-kind getaway in the Saudi desert. It balances extreme luxury with a rugged, immersive experience.
