Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Red Sea giga-project has welcomed its latest addition: Desert Rock, a luxurious retreat carved into the rugged Hejaz Mountains. Designed by Oppenheim Architecture, this exclusive getaway boasts cliff-hanging villas, private retreats, and breathtaking views.
Inspired by the ancient Nabataean civilization, renowned for its rock-carved architecture, Desert Rock spans 7 acres of mountainous terrain. The complex comprises multiple types of accommodations, including the gravity-defying Cliff Hanging Villas and Mountain Crevice Villas, which appear to be perched on the edge of the mountainside.
Other notable features include the Mountain Cave Suites, built into the rock face, and the Royal Villa, offering maximum privacy. The construction process involved digging a massive tunnel into the mountain, followed by a seven-year period of carving out the dwellings.
“We are ready to welcome guests to Desert Rock, our third self-operated hotel in the Red Sea Global hospitality portfolio,” says John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “This is more than just a hotel – it is a unique property, crafted into the rock face, offering a truly immersive experience where luxury and nature come together to create a truly unforgettable escape.”
Desert Rock is part of Saudi Arabia’s massive Red Sea giga-project, aimed at transforming the country’s oil-based economy into a tourism-focused one. Reservations are now open, with prices varying depending on the choice of villa and length of stay.
Image Courtesy: newatlas.com