As the first resort to open on Shura Island, the vibrant heart of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea destination, The Red Sea Edition introduces a new era of luxury to the Kingdom’s flagship regenerative tourism development.
Designed by Rockwell Group, the 240-key hotel draws inspiration from the natural landscapes of the Red Sea. Influenced by the journey from rock to sand to sea, interiors incorporate coral stone, rammed earth, natural oak and woven textures, creating a seamless connection between the hotel and its surroundings.
Developed as part of Foster + Partners’ masterplan for Shura Island, the resort comprises 240 guestrooms, including 53 suites, housed within a collection of beachfront and golf-facing pavilions. Reflecting the island’s natural environment, distinctive shell-inspired rooftops and low-rise architecture ensure the property sits harmoniously within the landscape.
The Red Sea Edition’s individual design story takes direct inspiration from the corals, coast and desert the region is known for. The Lobby draws on the sculptural qualities of the dunes, with the waterfront beach venues lying beyond, Jiwa Terrace and Jiwa Beach Club.
The terrace features a wide timber canopy, with hanging reeds that drop down from the roof beams to create a seamless edge to the beachfront. Each venue is conceived as a sensorial escape, offering more than food and drink but a place to gather.
The guestrooms, conceived around a ‘sand grain’ concept, use coral stone flooring and natural oak to create a residential feel. Larger suites sit under their own clamshell for ultimate exclusivity and privacy. Rather than relying on obvious regional artwork or motifs, the design uses local materials and references to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that feels personal, intimate and deeply connected to the landscape beyond.
At the heart of the resort is The Recovery Dome. Designed to blur the boundaries between indoors and out, it is a striking architectural space dedicated to movement, mindfulness and restoration. Framed by sweeping island views, it hosts a programme of experiences designed to foster balance and connection.
Alongside the Dome, The Spa and The Gym provide a calming sanctuary inspired by the natural beauty of Shura Island. Designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, these spaces offer a tranquil counterpoint to the destination’s adventure-led experiences.
The wider masterplan positions architecture, landscape and coastal systems as a coordinated response to the island environment, with buildings acting as natural defences against erosion while supporting the creation of new habitats across the destination. The buildings were prefabricated offsite and assembled on-site to minimise environmental impact on the island’s important ecosystems.
“Edition has always been about creating hotels that reflect the energy, culture and spirit of their location,” says Tony Coveney, area GM for Marriott Luxury Group, Red Sea. “The Red Sea Edition embodies that philosophy perfectly, delivering an experience that is deeply connected to its surroundings while offering the design, service and atmosphere our guests expect from the brand. As the first resort on Shura Island, we’re excited to help shape the future of this remarkable destination.”
