Accor is partnering with The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), a closed joint stock company 100% owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Foster + Partners, renowned for sustainable architecture, urbanism, engineering and design has been appointed as the architect for the project, with Citterio & Viel (ACPV) being appointed to complete the interior design, promising design and architecture that evokes emotion, stimulates intellect and creates a transformative atmosphere celebrating the themes of space, privacy and time.
“We are pleased to partner with the Accor group for the launch of the Raffles brand at our Red Sea destination. Moreover, we are excited for The Red Sea Project to be the home of the first Raffles resort in Saudi Arabia. The Red Sea Project aims to deliver a unique barefoot luxury experience to our guests, and the name Accor has become synonymous with luxury the world over. We are proud to have this prestigious brand at the development and look forward to working together to set a new global benchmark in regenerative luxury tourism,” said John Pagano, CEO at TRSDC.
The project will be creating an exquisite luxury destination within a pristine 28,000 square kilometre area. Once complete, it will offer visitors the exclusive opportunity to explore a uniquely diverse region of the world, including experiences for nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, cultural explorers and wellness seekers. With more than 200 kilometres of untouched coastline, an archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands, dormant volcanoes, rich nature and marine habitats, alongside ancient archaeological sites, the destination is set to bring new standards in sustainable, regenerative development, aiding in positioning Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map.
“Since the launch of the Saudi 2030 Vision we have been supporting the Kingdom’s development on the hospitality front and it only seems natural for us to be involved in such an outstanding project,” said Mark Willis, CEO of Accor India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey. “This new Raffles will not only expand our luxury footprint in the region, but it will further consolidate our role as the largest hospitality player in the Kingdom. I have no doubt that Raffles will meet and exceed all expectations for such a spectacular destination!”
As with every Raffles in the world, Raffles Red Sea will set new standards of luxurious and personal hospitality. In addition to an array of room and suite options, the resort will offer six Food & Beverage venues, alongside a fully-fledged spa and extensive 565 square metres meeting space.
“As our portfolio grows internationally, this is an exciting opportunity to work with best-in-class architects and designers evolving ideas and concepts that we will showcase within this new resort, including a beach club, beautifully landscaped grounds and spectacularly spacious suites – all part of the hyper-personalised experience we’re designing for our well-travelled guests,” said Stephen Alden, CEO Raffles & Orient Express. “It will be a key priority to work alongside local agencies to preserve, protect and enhance the natural and cultural ecosystem of the area,” he added.
Accor currently operates 39 properties (14,301 keys) in Saudi Arabia with another 26 (7,352 keys) in the pipeline.
