The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has selected General Hotel Management (GHM) to operate The Chedi Hegra, the first hotel located in the ancient Nabataean site in north-west Saudi Arabia.
Situated within Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and built directly into several existing structures, including an old railway station and surrounding buildings, the hotel will offer 35 guestrooms, three fine-dining restaurants, a café, spa and pool when open by 4Q2023.
The vast majority of the UNESCO World Heritage Site will remain untouched by construction and be carefully preserved by RCU to maintain the integrity of Hegra’s natural heritage. RCU will also incorporate sustainable features including a light-touch tourism approach, imaginative infrastructure, planting of native flora, and an all-electric mobility system.
John Northen, vice president of hotels & resorts, RCU, said: “Sitting at the nexus of AlUla’s living museum, The Chedi Hegra embodies the fulfilment of our Journey Through Time master plan with its deep respect for heritage, sustainable design features, and an authentic luxury experience that celebrates what makes AlUla a special destination for travellers seeking both comfort and adventure.”
“As the first hotel within Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site… I am certain that guests will recognise and appreciate the value we place in minimising our environmental impact, through the sustainable efforts of the hotel, in addition to our dedication in conserving the legacy of Hegra,” added GHM’s CEO Tommy Lai.
