Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?

Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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An aerial view of the Sindalah village promenade. (Supplied)
Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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Sindalah island is set to be the first physical showcase of the planned Saudi smart city giga-project NEOM. (Supplied)
Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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Sindalah island is set to be the first physical showcase of the planned Saudi smart city giga-project NEOM. (Supplied)
Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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An artist's drawing of the Sindalah golf club. (Supplied)
Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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Aerial view of the southern part of the Sindalah resort. (Supplied)
Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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Top view of the yacht club at Sindalah. (Supplied)
Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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The entrance to Sindalah hyper-luxury resort is shown in this artist's rendition. (Supplied)
Special Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
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Spa at Sindalah hyper-luxury resort. (Supplied)
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Updated 10 April 2023
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Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?

Could NEOM’s Sindalah island be the premiere luxury destination of 2024?
  • Island to feature an 86-berth marina, yacht and golf clubs and three luxury hotels
  • Architects using natural Red Sea landscape to create a one-of-a-kind architectural design

JEDDAH: For decades, the Greek isles, the Florida Keys, the Caribbean Sea and the Mediterranean coastline have been some of the most popular destinations in the world for yacht and boat owners. With Sindalah island set to open next year, however, the Red Sea location will be catching the eye of luxury travelers and yachters.

The island, designed by world-class architects at Luca Dini Design and Architecture, is set to be the first physical showcase of the planned Saudi smart city giga-project NEOM. Since Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman announced the construction of the project in December 2022, aerial images and videos have shown some of the island’s features and structures.

The island resort will feature several tourist attractions, including a beach club, a yacht club, a holistic spa and several hotels, including the first Marriott Autograph Collection Hotels property in Saudi Arabia and two of the hotel chain’s Luxury Collection properties set to open in 2024.

Sindalah’s location and natural characteristics make it a distinctive destination. Each structure is designed to blend with its environment to achieve harmony between nature and the urban development around it while ensuring that its habitat remains untouched and preserved, an ethos of NEOM.

The island’s location has made it a prime stopping point for many regional and European boat and yacht ownerss. Sindalah is a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean Sea, giving easy access to many yachting destinations in under a day through the Suez Canal.




Sindalah island is set to be the first physical showcase of the planned Saudi smart city giga-project NEOM. (Supplied)

With the Mediterranean Sea filled with superyachts throughout the summer, the Red Sea has long been a destination for divers and those looking for exotic cruising areas away from the bustle. The Red Sea is just a right turn away, with the climate of the region also a massive draw for anyone wanting to extend their yachting season.

“The destination will create a new season for superyachts, a dream alternative for yacht owners who want to spend the winter in an easily accessible location. With a prestigious 86-berth marina for yachts up to 75 meters and serviced buoys for superyachts up to 180 meters, a glamorous yacht club, luxury hotels, a golf club, an extensive retail precinct and exceptional food and beverage offerings, everything proposed in Sindalah is unique and cannot be found anywhere else in the world,” Luca Dini, CEO of Luca Dini studio, told Arab News.

“From our vast experience in the nautical sector, we bring the same knowledge of the needs of the most exclusive customers in the world, the attention-to-detail, and the ability to amaze owners who have already ‘seen it all’,” said Dini.




Luca Dini, CEO of Luca Dini studio. (Supplied)

“Sindalah, through design, is an expression of a spirit that we have noticed is strongly felt in Saudi (Arabia), which belongs to people closely linked to their traditions who look to the future with enthusiasm and dynamism. This deeply fascinates us. Every asset on Sindalah is designed to bring people together and allow them to experience the outdoors, in close connection with the beautiful environment,” he said.

Concerns over the disturbance and destruction of natural habitats are constantly examined by experts working at and with the giga-project engineers. Understanding the island’s natural undisturbed features, the coast, and existing rocks is, in Dini’s words, a “source of inspiration,” with each asset designed to enhance the forces of nature — the sun, wind and sea.

“The buildings are designed as rocks, which have always belonged to the island, and which nature has sculpted. Sindalah sand and seashells are the basis of aggregates for the village building materials. Unique semi-transparent materials capture the light of the setting sun and ignite the facades of the hotels facing west. Precious colored crystals set under the roofs of the Marina Promenade speak the language of corals and capture the reflected light of the sea,” he said.




A view of the entrance to the Sindalah hyper-luxury resort. Supplied)

Promoted as one of the world’s most pristine environments, each of NEOM’s structure development projects focuses on their commitment to sustainability, conservation and preservation of the natural environment. The pristine and unique marine environment is critical to NEOM’s success.

“As with all of NEOM’s projects, our commitment to redefine conservation and environmental preservation comes first. NEOM is developing Sindalah to be a premium destination that co-exists in harmony with the environment that surrounds it,” Antoni Vives, head of urban planning at NEOM, told Arab News.




Antoni Vives

In line with NEOM’s vision and purpose of promoting new ways of preventing environmental degradation and regenerating nature, Sindalah will celebrate and protect the unique underwater flora and fauna of the Red Sea following NEOM’s model of a sustainable, circular economy. Gives added that Sindalah will target several key sustainability certifications under NEOM’s Sustainability Policy Framework, including LEED Platinum and ENVISION sustainability certification at the hotel developments, and landscape and golf courses will be GEO certified.

“The sea and landscapes of the NEOM region, the diversity of species and habitats, and a rich cultural heritage are central to NEOM’s vision,” said Vives. “We proudly recognize what this represents as a regional and globally important source of biodiversity and cultural identity and we aim to set new standards in environmental stewardship by both protecting and enhancing our natural ecosystem.”

Leisure boating is an important economic activity that is increasing in popularity worldwide, though it can have damaging effects on the environment. Environmental impacts of recreational boating include anchoring impacts on seagrass, motor noise disturbance, toxic antifouling products and the transport of exotic species. Other effects include the discharge of greywater, air pollution, fuel and oil leaks, sediment resuspension, the release of black waters and marine litter, artificial light emissions, and animal feeding.

Marine discharge is common from boats, superyachts, and other seaborne vessels. As for NEOM’s stance toward such behavior, regulations will continue to help preserve the area’s natural habitat as Vives assured that Sindalah will be subject to regular environmental and social impact assessments “to ensure ongoing compliance that allows us to course correct as and when required.”

“We also leverage environmental management systems during construction to minimize our impact on the surrounding environment and ecology,” said Vives.

“Avoiding and mitigating behaviors that are detrimental to the environment is central to NEOM’s vision and purpose. Protecting our oceans and reefs is our key priority, and we will ensure collective adherence to NEOM’s environmental regulations within Sindalah. The island’s mobility plan focuses on exploring environmentally friendly modes of transport, including electric and green energy vessels,” he said.

 


Saudi FM calls for peaceful solutions to multiple world crises

Saudi FM calls for peaceful solutions to multiple world crises
Updated 24 September 2023
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Saudi FM calls for peaceful solutions to multiple world crises

Saudi FM calls for peaceful solutions to multiple world crises
  • Prince Faisal bin Farhan discusses Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, Libya, Ukraine, Sudan, Palestine
  • Foreign minister praises Saudi-Iranian rapprochement, calls for global action against Islamophobia

NEW YORK: Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister called for peaceful solutions to multiple world crises during his address to the 78th UN General Assembly in New York on Saturday.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan stressed the importance of human rights to Saudi Arabia, saying: “Our country has enacted a number of laws, and has also amended existing laws, in order to promote the dignity of the citizen and protect livelihoods and decent living while ensuring protection for all.”

He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s support for a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict “that allows the Palestinian people to have an independent state within the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.”

Prince Faisal also called for solutions to the conflicts and crises in Syria, Yemen, Lebanon, Iraq, Libya, Ukraine and Sudan.

“The Kingdom affirms its keenness on the security and stability of the Republic of Yemen and supports all efforts aimed at resolving the crisis in Yemen, and alleviating the human suffering of the Yemeni people,” he said.

He called for de-escalation in Sudan, saying Saudi Arabia hosted ceasefire talks between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Jeddah earlier this year with the participation of the US.

“Saudi Arabia is working actively to protect civilians and to guarantee delivery of aid to the population,” he said.

“We have, since the beginning of the crisis, constantly taken humanitarian action by conducting evacuation operations by sea of thousands of Sudanese and citizens of neighboring and brotherly countries.”

King Salman has also launched an initiative to raise funds for the Sudanese people, and decreed $100 million in humanitarian assistance to the country through the Saudi aid agency KSrelief, Prince Faisal said.

Prince Faisal said Saudi Arabia supports calls for the withdrawal of all foreign forces in Libya.  

“The Kingdom stresses the importance of achieving security and stability in Libya ensuring its sovereignty independence and territorial integrity and stopping interference in its internal affairs,” he said.

Further demonstrating the Kingdom’s important role as a global mediator, Prince Faisal mentioned Saudi efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine, including inviting the country to attend the Arab League Summit in Jeddah in May, and hosting an international summit on the war in August.

The latter meeting saw the attendance of over 40 countries, including many that had not specifically condemned Russia.

Prince Faisal also praised the resumption of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran “based on mutual respect for sovereignty, independence, security and non-interference.”

The two countries resumed diplomatic ties in April after seven years of strained relations, as part of a deal brokered by China during a meeting in Beijing between the Iranian and Saudi foreign ministers.

Prince Faisal also called on the international community to take action against Islamophobia. “The world must show firmness and determination when it comes to supporting or sponsoring terrorism or extremism,” he said.

“We must reject all forms of attacks against sacred values, and the propagation of hate and Islamophobia under any pretext, and prevent incidents such as the burning of the Holy Qur’an.

“We warn against the gravity of these acts, which jeopardize mutual respect and understanding between peoples, and which hinder international efforts towards tolerance, moderation and rejection of extremism.”

On the subject of climate change, Prince Faisal reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to reducing emissions and “a gradual and responsible transition towards clean energy systems with low emissions using all available sources of energy to ensure sustainability.”

He said: “We know this is a massive challenge, and we’d like to consolidate our leading role throughout the world when it comes to sustainability.”

He added that the Kingdom has launched the Saudi Green Initiative and Middle East Green Initiative in order to protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He said the Kingdom is using the circular economy approach towards carbon neutrality and has doubled its contributions to this goal, adding that efforts are under way to promote better governance of water resources.

On the issue of global energy supply, he said Saudi Arabia is striving to meet the needs of consumers and producers on a global level while working with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

“We’ll focus on prospects for a future focused on technology and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will be an excellent opportunity to promote projects with universal impact that can foster cooperation to find solutions through innovation, inclusiveness, and sustainability.” 

He also stressed "the importance of efforts to achieve the goal of eliminating nuclear weapons.”

Prince Faisal noted that Saudi Arabia has submitted its bid to host the World Expo 2030 under the title “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow.”

“We also have an ambitious policy towards the future,” he said.  

He concluded by thanking all countries that have supported the Kingdom’s World Expo bid, and conveyed to the world “our message, values and principles in a spirit of partnership and respect to lay the groundwork for a better future for humanity.”


Kingdom marks 93rd Saudi National Day

Kingdom marks 93rd Saudi National Day
Updated 23 September 2023
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Kingdom marks 93rd Saudi National Day

Kingdom marks 93rd Saudi National Day
  • Residents enjoy airshows, military parades, musical performances, art and fireworks as part of National Day celebrations 

JEDDAH/DHAHRAN: Residents marked the 93rd Saudi National Day over the weekend with great fervor as they took part in celebratory activities organized across the Kingdom’s regions, captivating audiences and instilling a sense of national pride.

A parade of naval vessels and special marine security boats, helicopter airshows and spectacular aerial ballet by the Royal Saudi Air Force were on show in different cities of the Kingdom. A military parade featuring an array of vehicles and infantry and cavalry units was also held. The Jeddah Waterfront became a focal point of celebration as enthusiastic crowds gathered to savor the day’s activities.
Rehab Al-Dossary, a student at King Abdulaziz University, said: “My family is a big fan of the air shows. It is clear that great efforts were made here.”

Children dressed up in military uniforms and the Kingdom’s national colors — green and white — were seen celebrating the Saudi National Day in Riyadh. (AN photos by Huda Bashatah)

Jeddah Art Promenade witnessed a two-hour folkloric show that showcased Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage.
At the Jeddah Yacht Club, the Royal Guard held a parade and the Saudi Hawks Aerobatic Team executed intricate formations and aerial displays, leaving spectators spellbound.
The historic area of Al-Balad saw musical performances, a delectable array of food trucks, traditional folk dances, educational workshops, live shows, and guided tours that allowed both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Saudi Arabia.

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A parade of naval vessels and special marine security boats, helicopter airshows and spectacular aerial ballet by the Royal Saudi Air Force were on show in different cities of the Kingdom.

As guests arrived, they were warmly welcomed in the traditional Saudi way, with Arabic coffee and genuine hospitality.
The air was filled with enchanting melodies as singers and musicians occupied various areas within the historic district, mesmerizing the audience with their performances.

At the Jeddah Yacht Club, the Royal Guard held a parade and the Saudi Hawks Aerobatic Team executed intricate formations and aerial displays, leaving spectators spellbound. (AN photos by Huda Bashatah)

A kids’ corner ensured that little ones had their fair share of fun and entertainment too.
The Royal Institute for Traditional Arts, in partnership with The Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, held family-oriented activities during Saudi National Day celebrations in Al-Balad.
These included workshops on traditional arts like intricate geometric pattern drawing and hands-on woodcarving sessions.
Suzan Al-Yahya, CEO of the institute, said: “Saudi National Day reminds us of our cultural richness and the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving and promoting traditional art. Through our collaborative workshops, we aim to nurture local talent, provide training, and inspire the community to embrace Saudi Arabia’s artistic heritage.”

Saudis across the Kingdom have been taking to flag-decked streets in their thousands on Saturday to celebrate the Kingdom’s 93rd National Day. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)

Art enthusiasts were delighted by the diverse range of artworks showcased at the Visual Arts Gallery on Abu Inabah Street.
Traditional games at Al-Falah Courtyard brought people together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition. A treasure hunt added an element of adventure to the festivities.
In collaboration with Infuse Advisory, Jeddah’s finest chefs opened a three-day pop-up restaurant, Peninsula, at Tahreek Space —  a gastronomic initiative that celebrated the diversity of Saudi cuisine, infusing traditional flavors with contemporary trends.
Hashim Nazer, CEO of Infuse Advisory, told Arab News: “Peninsula Pop-Up offered a culinary journey, diving deep into the distinctive flavors emblematic of Saudi cuisine. In tribute to the 93rd Saudi National Day, and as a nod to our rich heritage, the menu has been meticulously curated by the dedicated Saudi chef team at Infuse Advisory, which includes Dana Al-Maddah, Abdulrahman Enani, and Taleen Miliany. While it pays homage to our traditions, the menu also captures the nation’s progressive stride towards contemporary trends.”
The menu showcased a fresh take on beloved Saudi classics, innovating with textures, presentation, and culinary techniques while staying true to the authentic flavors and spices that define traditional Saudi cuisine.
At the King Abdullah Economic City, residents enjoyed a traditional Saudi folk band show, an outdoor Arabesque seating area, and other entertaining activities.
Bay La Sun Hotel at KAEC hosted a grand celebration with live music, cultural shows, exquisite dining, and activities for children.
Sheraton Jeddah Hotel celebrated by honoring Saudi heritage with a buffet of traditional flavors, dance performances, and a commitment to authentic Arabic hospitality.  
“Through our National Day celebration, Sheraton Jeddah Hotel aimed to honor the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia and provide our guests with an unforgettable experience that showcased our commitment to authentic Arabic hospitality,” said General Manager Edwin Wijkhuijs.
In Dhahran, the iconic King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, or Ithra, was lit in a neon green with rays of white as it welcomed visitors young and old for the Kingdom’s three-day celebration.
One big attraction — and perhaps the most photographed — was the Aramco-commissioned large painting, titled “Sights of Grandeur.” The oil on canvas framed art piece was created especially for the 93rd National Day by artist Simon Pasini and depicts the previous late Saudi kings as they walk in unison down steps. The painting shows women standing prominently to the side, with familiar Saudi buildings in the background, including the Ithra building.
“We celebrate our homeland, the great anniversary of its unification; a day of strength, pride and renewed belonging,” Ithra said in a statement.
The “Sing Along for Saudi” karaoke experiment returned with two nightly shows, encouraging audience members to sing from their seats. Popular Saudi song lyrics were displayed on a big screen, accompanied by a live orchestra led by Maestro Yahya Musawa.
With 2023 designated as the Year of Arabic Poetry by the Kingdom, the Ithra Museum offered an Arabic Poetry Exhibit, along with musical performances at the Plaza and the famous Selfie Corner.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the night skies across Saudi Arabia were illuminated by breathtaking fireworks displays.
Cities like Jeddah, Alkhobar, Madinah at King Fahad Main Park, Taif at King Abdullah’s Public Park, Hail’s Al-Salam Park, Abha’s Al-Sadd Garden and Al-Fan Street, and Tabuk Rose Garden all came alive with dazzling bursts of color and light.

 


Saudi FM holds talks with Nicaragua, Brunei counterparts in New York

Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives Denis Moncada Colindres in New York. (Supplied)
Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives Denis Moncada Colindres in New York. (Supplied)
Updated 23 September 2023
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Saudi FM holds talks with Nicaragua, Brunei counterparts in New York

Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives Denis Moncada Colindres in New York. (Supplied)
  • In a separate meeting, Prince Faisal held talks with Dato Erywan Yusof, Brunei’s second minister of foreign affairs, during which they also discussed ways to strengthen ties

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met his Nicaragua counterpart, Denis Moncada Colindres, on the sidelines of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

During the meeting, the two ministers discussed the latest international developments of mutual concern and ways to strengthen cooperation in different fields.

In a separate meeting, Prince Faisal held talks with Dato Erywan Yusof, Brunei’s second minister of foreign affairs, during which they also discussed ways to strengthen ties.

Also present at the meetings were Abdulaziz Al-Wasel, Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative to the UN, and Abdulrahman Al-Daoud, director-general of the foreign minister’s office.

 

 


Starbucks celebrates Saudi National Day with special cup design

This year’s winning design by Joud Al-Sultan will grace Starbucks’ cups throughout the month. (Supplied)
This year’s winning design by Joud Al-Sultan will grace Starbucks’ cups throughout the month. (Supplied)
Updated 23 September 2023
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Starbucks celebrates Saudi National Day with special cup design

This year’s winning design by Joud Al-Sultan will grace Starbucks’ cups throughout the month. (Supplied)
  • Saudi artist Joud Yahya Al-Sultan’s work won public vote in coffee chain’s second design contest

JEDDAH: To commemorate the 93rd Saudi National Day, coffee chain Starbucks has announced the winner of its second design competition, held in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Culture.

The contest, which was launched last year to mark the Year of Saudi Coffee, aims to portray the Kingdom’s heritage and culture through art and creativity and encourage the creative community to pay tribute to Saudi Arabia’s history and its beloved coffee traditions.

This year’s winning design, created by Saudi artist Joud Yahya Al-Sultan, will grace Starbucks’ cups throughout the month. Her work was chosen by public vote from a shortlist of 10 designs, selected from a multitude of entries. The top three artists all received cash prizes.

Al-Sultan’s artwork incorporates immediately recognizable elements of Saudi culture including coffee, camels, and traditional houses adorned with vibrant decorations.

In an exclusive interview with Arab News, Al-Sultan explained: “Through my illustrations, I tried to highlight elements related to our beloved Saudi culture in a harmonious mixture that represents the Saudi identity. Camels, old houses and Saudi coffee are all elements that are deeply ingrained in the minds of the people, representing a history full of pride and honor.”

She continued: “Frankly, I did not expect to win due to the large number of creative designers and painters in the Kingdom.”

Her winning design was created using Photoshop. She selected a palette of brown tones to represent her country’s heritage and convey a sense of tradition and history.

Al-Sultan added that she is already planning her next creative endeavor for Starbucks — one that will showcase her artistic talents to audiences in the Gulf and beyond.

The artist told Arab News that she has been passionate about drawing since childhood. Her ability to create digital drawings and visual identities has opened up exciting opportunities in the world of art and design, she explained.

“My message to emerging painters and designers is to take advantage of the opportunities available to you because you do not know which of these opportunities will build your future,” Al-Sultan said.

 


Saudi railway celebrates 93rd National Day at Al Haramain Express train station in Jeddah

SAR celebrates 93rd National Day at Al Haramain Express train station in Jeddah. (SPA)
SAR celebrates 93rd National Day at Al Haramain Express train station in Jeddah. (SPA)
Updated 24 September 2023
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Saudi railway celebrates 93rd National Day at Al Haramain Express train station in Jeddah

SAR celebrates 93rd National Day at Al Haramain Express train station in Jeddah. (SPA)
  • The people at the Jeddah train station expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia and its government for the services they receive

JEDDAH: A number of events were held at the Al-Haramain Express train station in Jeddah to celebrate the 93rd National Day of the kingdom, SPA reported.

Citizens arriving and departing from Makkah, Madinah, and King Abdullah Economic City exchanged feelings of loyalty, pride, and love for their homeland during this ceremony.

The people at the Jeddah train station expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia and its government for the services they receive, including the organization and facilitation of modern transportation for Umrah rituals and travels within Saudi Arabia at one of three stations.