Rock formations and a desert landscape make for a striking backdrop / photo: Banyan Tree AlUla
Banyan Tree has launched its first resort and spa in Saudi Arabia, ushering in the group’s debut in the Kingdom.
Banyan Tree AlUla is being operated by Accor on behalf of Banyan Tree, thanks to the two brands’ strategic long-term partnership agreement which was announced in 2016. The deal means Accor develops and manages Banyan Tree-branded hotels around the world.
Set against a striking desert backdrop and imposing rock formations, Banyan Tree AlUla has been developed in the Ashar Valley of the AlUla region – a historical crossroad of ancient civilisations and a popular resting place for travellers and traders since the 6th century BC.
The vision for the resort was inspired by the architecture of the Nabataeans – a nomadic tribe of Bedouins who occupied the area 2,000 years ago.
A subtle desert landscape Banyan Tree AlUla’s 47 sand-coloured tents blend into the landscape, while a range of outdoor wellness experiences allow guests to connect with the natural surroundings.
Highlights include starlit open-air sound baths and a massage inside a hidden cave surrounded by precious minerals, incense and scented candles made with locally-grown ingredients.
Guests can also unwind in a rock pool with views of the valley on the horizon, while a signature Banyan Tree Spa offers traditional Asian healing therapies in one of five treatment spaces. Partners include Lemi, Talenti Spa and Pevonia.
A regular selection of yoga classes, retreats and workshops by world-renowned masters in their fields complete the offering.
Speaking to Spa Business, Banyan Tree revealed there are plans to expand the spa with thermal and wet facilities and a corresponding suite of rituals by Q4 of 2023.
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Rock formations and a desert landscape make for a striking backdrop / photo: Banyan Tree AlUla
Banyan Tree has launched its first resort and spa in Saudi Arabia, ushering in the group’s debut in the Kingdom.
Banyan Tree AlUla is being operated by Accor on behalf of Banyan Tree, thanks to the two brands’ strategic long-term partnership agreement which was announced in 2016. The deal means Accor develops and manages Banyan Tree-branded hotels around the world.
Set against a striking desert backdrop and imposing rock formations, Banyan Tree AlUla has been developed in the Ashar Valley of the AlUla region – a historical crossroad of ancient civilisations and a popular resting place for travellers and traders since the 6th century BC.
The vision for the resort was inspired by the architecture of the Nabataeans – a nomadic tribe of Bedouins who occupied the area 2,000 years ago.
A subtle desert landscape Banyan Tree AlUla’s 47 sand-coloured tents blend into the landscape, while a range of outdoor wellness experiences allow guests to connect with the natural surroundings.
Highlights include starlit open-air sound baths and a massage inside a hidden cave surrounded by precious minerals, incense and scented candles made with locally-grown ingredients.
Guests can also unwind in a rock pool with views of the valley on the horizon, while a signature Banyan Tree Spa offers traditional Asian healing therapies in one of five treatment spaces. Partners include Lemi, Talenti Spa and Pevonia.
A regular selection of yoga classes, retreats and workshops by world-renowned masters in their fields complete the offering.
Speaking to Spa Business, Banyan Tree revealed there are plans to expand the spa with thermal and wet facilities and a corresponding suite of rituals by Q4 of 2023.
Spa People: Marc Cohen
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Menu engineering: At your service
Get inspired by the latest wellness services including a high-tech diagnostic circuit at SHA and a Zita West fertility programme at Bürgenstock
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As Saudi Arabia taps into tourism, the man heading up wellness at Amaala talks to Spa Business about what the major development is looking to bring to a previously undiscovered part of the Kingdom
Interview: Aradhana Khowala
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Event report: Healing summit
Self-help and self-love were the key messages from this wellness event in Portugal, says Spa Business’ Lisa Starr
Sponsored: Comfort Zone: Effective by nature
Comfort Zone has revealed three new
products, including a new neck and
décolleté fluid, leveraging the power of
botanical bioactive extracts
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Event Report: Global Wellness Summit
The 16th annual GWS, held in Tel Aviv, Israel, homed in on the sector’s biggest issues following the pandemic. Spa Business reports on the highlights
Research: Wellness for all
A new study by the Global Wellness Institute provides a framework for businesses and governments to make healthy lifestyles accessible to all
Sponsored: TechnoAlpin Snowroom
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Finishing Touch: Cold call
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