Exploring Saudi Arabia's Futuristic Overwater Villas: A First Look at the Red Sea Project
Stepping into the Future: Saudi Arabia's Overwater Villas
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a massive transformation, investing trillions in futuristic infrastructure to diversify its economy beyond oil. One of the most ambitious projects is Vision 2030, which includes the mind-boggling "The Line" city and the Red Sea Project. This project involves developing 50 hotels with over 8,000 rooms on a group of pristine islands. We recently visited one of the first completed resorts, featuring overwater villas that seem straight out of a sci-fi film.
A Surreal Arrival: From Skepticism to Awe
Initially, the images of these villas seemed too futuristic to be real, resembling spaceships floating on the turquoise water. Upon arrival, our skepticism vanished. The resort is stunning, exceeding all expectations. The staff greeted us warmly and provided a private tour, showcasing the incredible scale and design of the project.
The orbs, pre-constructed in Dubai and shipped to the Red Sea, are a marvel of engineering. The resort is also powered by a solar farm, a surprising yet commendable commitment to sustainability in a country known for its oil production.
Exploring the Resort: Amenities and Experiences
The resort is shaped like an oval, offering a variety of amenities. A pristine public beach, an infinity pool, and a pool bar serving non-alcoholic beverages provide ample relaxation options. Free unlimited sunscreen is a thoughtful touch, ensuring guests can enjoy the sun without worry.
Dining Delights: Michelin-Star Cuisine and Unexpected Reunions
The resort boasts five restaurants, each offering unique culinary experiences. The Italian restaurant, helmed by a Michelin-star chef, served exceptional dishes. We also enjoyed a delicious breakfast with a wide selection of à la carte and buffet options.
A surprising highlight was our reunion with a restaurant manager we had met eight years prior at a safari lodge in Zimbabwe. This small-world encounter added a personal touch to our dining experience.
Activities and Facilities: Diving, Fitness, and Relaxation
The Red Sea is a renowned diving destination, and the resort offers a dive center with free snorkel gear. Other amenities include paddle courts, a padded running track, and a state-of-the-art gym with a full recovery bar and top-of-the-line equipment. The spa provides a tranquil escape with a variety of treatments.
Inside the Orbs: A Glimpse of Futuristic Luxury
The overwater villas are a blend of modern elegance and futuristic design. The interiors feature sleek lines, minimalist aesthetics, and high-quality furnishings. Each villa boasts a private infinity pool, a spacious living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and luxurious bathrooms with rainfall showers and Japanese-style toilets.
A unique feature is the "butler door," allowing staff to deliver amenities without disturbing guests. The complimentary mini-bar, stocked with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks, is a welcome surprise.
Final Thoughts: A Unique and Evolving Destination
Our experience at the Red Sea Project's overwater villas was truly remarkable. The resort offers exceptional accommodations, world-class dining, and a unique atmosphere. While still under development, the project shows immense potential and could become a leading luxury travel destination.
It's important to note that Saudi Arabia has its complexities, and this article is not an endorsement of the country's policies. We simply aim to share our firsthand experience of this fascinating and evolving destination.
