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Chedi Hegra combines sustainable focus with access to one of the Kingdom’s most ancient historical sites
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and General Hotel Management (GHM) have announced the opening of The Chedi Hegra, which is said to mark a new chapter in the development of AlUla as a world-class tourist destination.
Nestled within the ancient Nabataean settlement of Hegra, a Unesco World Heritage Site, the property is the Kingdom’s first 7-star hotel to open, offering guests a harmonious blend of rich history and luxurious comfort.
According to RCU, a key focus of the development is its commitment to sustainability. The hotel’s design aligns with RCU’s Sustainability Charter for AlUla, ensuring minimal environmental impact through a ‘light-touch’ tourism approach, and also emphasising the use of local materials wherever possible during development and construction.
The Chedi Hegra will feature 35 bespoke guest rooms, each designed to reflect the harmony between luxury and the surrounding natural landscape. The project integrates existing structures – such as the Hegra railway station – into its architecture, preserving the integrity of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The main restaurant is in the eatery of the former train station, with a 1906 locomotive at the centre of the room. The train’s maintenance area has been conserved and is visible through a glass floor in the restaurant.
Axel Jarosch, Vice President of Hotels & Resorts at RCU added, “The Chedi Hegra will stand as a model for authentic luxury, blending modern hospitality with the timeless heritage of AlUla. This project embodies the vision of our ‘Journey Through Time’ masterplan, which celebrates AlUla’s history and culture, offering travellers an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring locations. It also reflects our dedication to sustainable growth, and we are confident this project will set a new benchmark for luxury experiences in AlUla.”
The hotel will offer guests a range of amenities, with three distinct culinary experiences, including Prima Classe, a fine dining restaurant housed in the former Hegra railway station, and featuring a unique heritage exhibition.
Meanwhile, the Fort Restaurant is set within the walls of the historic Hegra Fort, while The Water Basin Restaurant offers unobstructed views of Hegra’s landscape.
According to Jarosch, additional amenities include the Chedi Spa with six treatment rooms, two post-treatment rooms, and two hydrothermal rooms, as well as a fitness & pool centre, situated in a series of transformed mud brick villas.
Beyond the hotel walls, guests can take part in curated experiences such as exploring the wildlife reserves, witnessing a traditional falcon show, or embarking on a Bedouin Expedition, all designed to foster a deeper appreciation for AlUla’s enduring legacy. |
