JAKARTA – InterContinental The Red Sea Resort has commenced operations on Shura Island, becoming the second hospitality property to open at Saudi Arabia’s ambitious regenerative tourism development following The Red Sea Edition’s launch in October.

Milestone Anniversary

The opening carries additional significance as IHG Hotels & Resorts marks half a century of presence in the kingdom. The company’s Saudi Arabian journey began with the InterContinental Riyadh in 1975, and the portfolio has since expanded to over 100 properties either operational or under development throughout the country.

Strategic Location

Situated along Saudi Arabia’s western coast, Shura Island lies just 25 minutes from Red Sea International Airport. The island forms part of a dolphin-shaped archipelago encircled by the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system. Foster + Partners designed the island under the “Coral Bloom” concept, incorporating a yacht marina, retail and dining precinct, wellness facilities, and various recreational amenities.

Property Design and Accommodations

Positioned centrally on Shura Island, the InterContinental resort showcases views of thriving coral reefs and mangrove ecosystems through a design philosophy blending minimalist aesthetics with environmental context.

The property encompasses 178 standard rooms and 32 suites, offering both beachfront and lagoon-view configurations. The accommodation selection includes a two-bedroom beachfront suite featuring outdoor living spaces and Club Lounge privileges. Interior design emphasizes organic forms, featuring flowing lines, artisan craftsmanship, and artwork from Saudi artists.

Culinary Offerings

Five distinct dining venues serve diverse cuisines:

Darein presents Levantine and Moroccan specialties in both indoor and terrace settings

Ardo (opening shortly) will focus on South American fare emphasizing open-flame preparation techniques

3O5 Miami Beach Club delivers beachfront dining with Latin American-influenced menus, cocktails, and a cigar lounge

Chimes offers Mediterranean-style cuisine highlighting grilled seafood and seasonal ingredients in a relaxed atmosphere

Murrma serves as the coffee and confections destination

Recreation and Wellness

The resort provides an outdoor swimming pool, private beach access, and various aquatic activities including windsurfing, paddleboarding, sailing, and professionally guided snorkeling and diving expeditions to the extensive reef system.

The Spa InterContinental features a vitality pool and delivers customized treatments, yoga classes, and comprehensive wellness programming. The fitness facility houses Technogym equipment, garden-view studios, and outdoor training options.

Young visitors aged 4 to 14 can participate in Planet Trekkers, a specialized children’s program offering interactive entertainment and educational experiences.

Premium guests accessing Club InterContinental receive enhanced services including private check-in procedures, exclusive lounge access, curated dining experiences, and dedicated concierge assistance.

Island Development Plans

InterContinental The Red Sea Resort and The Red Sea Edition represent the initial phase of Shura Island’s hospitality expansion, with SLS The Red Sea scheduled to follow. The island recently introduced Saudi Arabia’s first 18-hole island golf course, Shura Links, with marinas and additional lifestyle facilities currently under construction.

Upon completion, Shura Island will accommodate 11 luxury resort properties, branded residential developments, retail establishments, and marina facilities. Forthcoming properties include brands from Faena, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah, Miraval, Raffles, and Rosewood.

Sustainability Focus

The destination’s master plan prioritizes environmental responsibility through renewable energy infrastructure, sustainable construction practices, and low-impact design principles across all resort developments.

Accessibility

Red Sea International Airport provides connectivity through direct flights from Doha, Dubai, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Qatar Airways operates three weekly services to the airport, while all-business-class carrier Beond has established Europe’s first connection with twice-weekly flights from Milan departing Wednesdays and Sundays.

The InterContinental opening strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position in the luxury tourism market while advancing the kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives for tourism sector diversification and sustainable development.

Original Article:

Connecting Travel. (2025, December 3). InterContinental The Red Sea Resort opens on Saudi Arabia’s Shura Island.  Retrieved from https://connectingtravel.com/news/intercontinental-the-red-sea-resort-opens-on-saudi-arabias-shura-island