The Red Sea EDITION has opened as the first resort on Shura Island, marking the latest stage in the development of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea tourism destination.
The 240-room beachfront hotel forms part of the Foster + Partners masterplan for Shura Island and comprises a collection of beachfront and golf-facing pavilions.
Designed by Rockwell Group, the property takes inspiration from the Red Sea landscape and the transition from rock to sand and sea.
Materials including coral stone, rammed earth, natural oak and woven textures have been incorporated throughout the interiors, while shell-inspired rooftops and low-rise architecture have been designed to connect the buildings with the surrounding landscape.
The resort comprises 240 guestrooms, including 53 suites, with accommodation developed around a ‘sand grain’ concept.
Coral stone flooring and natural oak feature throughout the guestrooms, while larger suites are positioned beneath individual clamshell structures intended to provide increased privacy.
Rather than using overt regional motifs, the design draws on local materials and references to the surrounding coastline, desert and coral environments.
Food, drink and social spaces form a significant part of the resort’s offer.
The Lobby takes design cues from the sculptural qualities of the surrounding dunes, while Jiwa Terrace and JIWA Beach Club provide waterfront dining and social spaces.
Jiwa Terrace features a timber canopy with hanging reeds extending from the roof structure towards the beachfront.
Speciality restaurant ANASA is scheduled to open in October 2026, further expanding the resort’s food and beverage offer.
Guests will also have access to activities across the wider destination, including snorkelling, diving, island-hopping excursions and desert experiences.
Wellness facilities at the property include The Spa, The Gym and the Recovery Dome.
Located at the centre of the resort, the Recovery Dome has been designed as a space for movement, mindfulness and restoration, with views across the island.
The Spa and The Gym also draw on the natural environment, with their design intended to connect indoor facilities with the surrounding landscape.
The wider Shura Island masterplan combines architecture, landscaping and coastal systems as part of its approach to development.
Buildings have been positioned to act as natural defences against erosion while supporting the creation of new habitats across the destination.
Structures for the development were also prefabricated offsite before being assembled on the island, with the approach intended to reduce the impact of construction activity on surrounding ecosystems.
Tony Coveney, Area General Manager for Marriott Luxury Group, Red Sea, said: “EDITION has always been about creating hotels that reflect the energy, culture and spirit of their location.
“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.”
The opening introduces EDITION’s hospitality concept to Shura Island as development of the wider Red Sea destination continues.
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