The Chedi Hegra Opens in AlUla’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Emma Hodgson   |   05-12-2024

Amidst the breathtaking desert landscapes of AlUla’s historic Hegra, The Chedi Hegra has opened its doors. 

Situated within Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, this extraordinary retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in a setting where ancient history and contemporary sophistication converge.

The Chedi Hegra is a triumph of vision and design, seamlessly integrating the remnants of the Hegra Train Station, constructed in 1907, into a sophisticated retreat. Developed by Milan’s acclaimed Gio Forma studio, the architecture preserves the original stone walls and railway structures, complementing them with modern design elements like the striking 700-metre Shadow Canopy. This structure, known as Lamellae, artfully unites the historical railway tracks with a serene space for reflection.

The hotel’s 35 rooms and villas boast breathtaking desert vistas and incorporate elements of Nabataean heritage, from historic stone walls to luxurious interiors inspired by the ancient city. Select accommodations feature private terraces and plunge pools, offering a sanctuary amidst the surrounding natural splendour.

 Dining at The Chedi Hegra is an elevated experience that captures the flavours of both local and international cuisines. At Prima Classe, guests dine in the restored train station, savouring Mediterranean dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients. By evening, the space transforms into the Golden Hour Lounge, where the desert sunset casts a magical glow on the restored Locomotive 964 – a masterfully rehabilitated relic of the early 20th century.

For a relaxed ambience, the Al Mahattah Lounge presents gourmet bites and a luxurious high-tea service, complemented by stories from the in-house storyteller, Rawi. Future dining concepts promise further enchantment, from starlit meals at Al Mawrid to romantic dinners at Al Mokhtasar.

More than a hotel, The Chedi Hegra is a gateway to AlUla’s vast cultural and natural treasures. Guests can explore the UNESCO site through guided tours or connect with nature at the Hegra Wildlife and Nature reserve, home to endangered species like the Arabian Oryx and Nubian Ibex. Artistic installations, such as Silent Witnesses of the Past by Monika Sosnowska, and a curated gallery of handcrafted artefacts bring Hegra’s rich history to life.

A haven for relaxation, The Chedi Hegra offers wellness experiences inspired by the natural elements of AlUla. The resort’s signature spa treatments utilise ingredients like rosemary and moringa, while the forthcoming spa and wellness centre promises indulgence with saunas, steam rooms, and a vast outdoor pool – the largest in Hegra.

Managed by General Hotel Management Ltd. (GHM), The Chedi Hegra reflects Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, showcasing the country as a hub for sustainable cultural tourism. This luxurious retreat embodies the harmony of ancient heritage and contemporary refinement, providing a transformative escape for discerning travellers.

From the untouched beauty of the surrounding landscapes to the architectural grandeur of its interiors, The Chedi Hegra is not merely a hotel—it is a destination that bridges the past and the present, promising guests an unforgettable journey into the heart of AlUla’s cultural and historical legacy.

ghmhotels.com

TAGS