While our Swiss campus is covered in snow and it gets dark before we even finish our afternoon classes, our thoughts turn towards a warm destination, the sun, and the beach!
This issue, we visit Saudi Arabia, a real rising star on the tourism scene. The country is opening up as part of its Vision 2030, an ambitious plan focused on culture, sustainability and authentic Saudi hospitality. One of the clearest examples of this transformation can be found along the western coast, where the Red Sea Project is setting a new standard for luxury travel.
About the Red Sea Project
The Red Sea Project is not just one resort, but a large, carefully planned destination made up of several hotels and landscapes. Stretching from desert plains and mountainous terrain to islands in the Red Sea, it brings together very different environments within a single journey.
What makes the project stand out is not just its scale, but also how well everything is connected. One of the main benefits of visiting the Red Sea is the smoothness of the experience. Guests can stay at more than one property and move between them easily, whether by luxury chauffeur-driven car, private boat, or seaplane. This makes it possible to experience different locations without the stress usually associated with traveling between destinations.
Barbara's best places to stay
Shebara Resort
Among the most talked-about properties within the Red Sea Project is Shebara Resort. Often described as one of the most ‘Instagrammable’ resorts in the region, Shebara is known for its unique overwater and beachfront villas that resemble air bubbles floating on the sea.
The villas are designed with reflective surfaces that mirror the sky and water around them, giving the resort a futuristic look while still blending into its surroundings. Inside, the design is clean and modern, with a strong focus on views and functionality. Shebara feels bold and contemporary, offering a design-led experience that is unlike anything else currently available in the region.
Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
For travelers looking for something quieter and more personal, Nujuma offers a more intimate way to experience the Red Sea.
The focus here is on privacy, space, and a close connection to nature. Guests can enjoy activities such as diving in pristine coral reefs, stargazing under clear skies, and conservation-focused experiences that highlight the importance of protecting the surrounding environment.
Desert Rock Resort
One of the most unique resorts in the Red Sea Project is Desert Rock. Built directly into the mountain, the resort offers accommodation that is literally carved into the rock. This creates a very different kind of stay, one that feels private, quiet, and closely connected to the landscape.
This type of design is rarely seen anywhere in the world. Desert Rock is ideal for travelers looking for something unusual and immersive, with experiences that focus on the natural surroundings, from mountain walks to evenings spent under the stars, listening to stories that have been passed on for centuries.
Six Senses Southern Dunes
Set deep within the desert, Six Senses Southern Dunes draws inspiration from the rhythms and traditions of the Arabian Desert, long shaped by Bedouin culture and ancient trade routes.
Wellbeing lies at the heart of the experience. Known globally for its holistic approach to health, Six Senses is an ideal destination for travelers who prioritize balance and longevity. The resort excels in nutritious, thoughtfully prepared cuisine, alongside immersive wellness offerings such as sound healing, guided meditation, and activities including sand surfing across the dunes.
It is a place to slow down, restore, and reconnect with both nature and oneself.
Barbara's favorite for foodies
Tofareya – dining above the desert
Are you looking for memorable dining experiences in the region? The Michelin Guide recommends Tofareya, which offers one of the most iconic dining experiences in the area, both for its dramatic mountain setting and its food.
The dishes particularly recommended by the Michelin experts are the kabsa flavored with AlUla's oranges, and the traditional Omm Ali dessert.
Making the most of your Saudi trip
Ancient and modern join forces in Jeddah
Anyone traveling along the western coast should spend time in Jeddah. As the gateway to the Red Sea, but also the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, the city holds great importance for Muslim visitors and plays a key role in the cultural life of the Kingdom.
Jeddah also has a strong food scene. Tamees House (pictured left) is a popular local spot, known for its freshly baked bread and traditional Saudi dishes. Do not skip the exceptional Saudi coffee served with local dates!
Luxury shopping in Jeddah often focuses on traditional craftsmanship, especially gold. The Gold Souk is one of the best places to explore fine gold jewelry, offering both classic and modern designs. For a more atmospheric experience, Souq Al Alawi combines gold shops with traditional merchants selling perfumes, textiles, and spices. If you are looking for a more modern setting, head to Tahlia Street, one of the city’s most fashionable areas, lined with boutiques, cafés, and designer stores.
Be ahead of the curve
Saudi Arabia is not trying to copy other luxury destinations. Instead, it is building something new, focused on authenticity, sustainability, and carefully executed design. One of the biggest advantages of visiting the Kingdom today is the lack of crowds. The Red Sea remains quiet and spacious, offering a level of privacy that is becoming increasingly rare in luxury travel.
So, while we are waiting for the warmer weather to return, consider Saudi Arabia as your next destination. As for us, we will be back next issue with more inspiration for traveling in style.
Photo credits
Main image: Renata Romeo/Getty
Red Sea sunset: Khawaja Umer Farooq/Getty
All our 'best luxury destinations' in one place
Here’s the complete set of Barbara Czyzewska's top luxury destinations for you to enjoy:
#1 - St. Moritz: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-1-st-moritz/
#2 - Zimbabwe: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-2-zimbabwe/
#3 - French Polynesia: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-3-french-polynesia/
#4 - American 'Great Outdoors': https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-4-american-great-outdoors/
#5 - Japan's spring blossom season: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-5-japan-spring-blossom-sakura-season/
#6 - Paris in private: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-6-paris-in-private-more-intimate-luxury/
#7 - Istanbul and the gateway between east and west: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-7-istanbul/
