Oberoi Hotels & Resorts has unveiled details of The Oberoi Sukoonvilas, Wadi Safar, a luxury resort under development in Diriyah, a historic town on the north‑western edge of Riyadh and one of Saudi Arabia’s emerging tourism destinations.
The property is scheduled to open in the first quarter of
2027 and will be the first hotel to welcome guests in Wadi Safar.
Located about 30 minutes from Riyadh and near the UNESCO
World Heritage Site of At-Turaif in Diriyah, Wadi Safar is being developed as a
destination combining heritage, culture, wellbeing and nature.
The landscape features dramatic escarpments and desert
valleys and is expected to become a major addition to the Kingdom’s tourism
offering.
The Oberoi Sukoonvilas will be positioned atop a 70-metre
escarpment across more than 37 acres of landscaped grounds.
The resort will comprise 60 standalone villas and 10 branded
residences, with its design drawing inspiration from traditional Najdi
architecture.
International architecture firm Aedas is leading the
architectural design, while global interiors studio Blink is responsible for
the interiors.
The concept incorporates shaded courtyards, water features
and indoor-outdoor spaces intended to reflect the region’s architectural
heritage while providing a contemporary luxury setting.
Dining will form a central part of the guest experience.
The
resort will feature Yatra, offering contemporary Indian cuisine curated by
Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai; Linnet, an artisanal pastry and café concept
led by pastry chef Lily Vanilli; and Beyla, serving international cuisine.
Guests will also have access to poolside dining overlooking
the surrounding escarpment.
Wellbeing will be another key element, with the resort
introducing ASMI by Oberoi, the group’s wellness programme.
Facilities will include hammams, indoor wellness pools,
fitness facilities and a 65-metre infinity pool overlooking Wadi Safar.
The property will also incorporate cultural connections
between Saudi Arabia and India through its architecture, cuisine and approach
to hospitality, bringing together elements from both traditions.
Wadi Safar is located close to Diriyah, the birthplace of
the First Saudi State, and is being developed as a destination spanning
heritage, sport, wellness, nature and luxury hospitality.
With its planned opening in 2027, The Oberoi Sukoonvilas is
set to become a key hospitality component of Wadi Safar’s development, offering
visitors a luxury experience centred on the landscape and cultural character of
the region.
Jerry
Inzerillo, Group Chief Executive Officer, Diriyah Company, said: “The
opening of The Oberoi Sukoonvilas will mark an important milestone for Wadi
Safar as the first hotel to welcome guests to this extraordinary destination.
Oberoi Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to exceptional hospitality,
craftsmanship and a strong sense of place aligns closely with our vision for
Wadi Safar. We are delighted to welcome The Oberoi Sukoonvilas and look forward
to introducing guests from the Kingdom and around the world to a distinctive
hospitality experience that celebrates the remarkable landscape, heritage and
character of Diriyah.”
Vikram
Oberoi, Chief Executive Officer, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, said: “Wadi
Safar presents a rare opportunity to create a resort experience that is deeply
rooted in the history, culture and natural beauty of its surroundings. Building
on Diriyah’s vision for a destination that celebrates Saudi Arabia’s rich
heritage, The Oberoi Sukoonvilas has been thoughtfully conceived as a sanctuary
of understated luxury, where architecture, landscape and hospitality come
together in harmony. Every aspect of the resort has been designed to foster a
meaningful connection with the destination, while delivering the warm, sincere
and intuitive service that defines Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. We look forward
to welcoming guests to experience a distinctive expression of Arabian
hospitality, inspired by the spirit of Wadi Safar and shaped by Oberoi’s
enduring commitment to excellence.”
Jeremy Canivet, General Manager, The Oberoi Sukoonvilas, Wadi Safar, said: “At The Oberoi Sukoonvilas, every experience has been carefully curated to immerse guests in the beauty and spirit of Wadi Safar. From private villas inspired by Najdi heritage and surrounded by lush landscaped gardens, to distinctive dining experiences and restorative wellness journeys at ASMI by Oberoi, the resort has been designed to create moments of discovery, connection and renewal. We look forward to offering guests a deeply personal experience that reflects both the character of this extraordinary destination and the timeless hospitality of Oberoi Hotels & Resorts.” -TradeArabia News Service