Shaped by Nature, Rooted in Serenity: InterContinental The Red Sea Resort | Out of Office Winter 2025
Biophilic design principles conveyed through a new luxury resort in The Red Sea, encourage mindful escapism that invites all who visit to leave as nature’s guardians
A thousand grains of sand whisper as you walk, telling tales of the earth’s bounty. Stories caught in the winds of Shura Island, an extraordinary haven in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea destination. An island, designed by Foster + Partners under the regenerative and integrative concept of Coral Bloom, that is guided by the environment; blending with its surroundings, enhancing what is already there.
At the heart of Shura sits InterContinental The Red Sea Resort, an instinctual enclave with a design rooted in nature. Drawing on the island’s natural state, here an abundance of flora and fauna shapes every element. Uninhibited by outside influences, there is freedom to feel, move, sense, experience. It’s a call to action of a peaceful kind; an invitation to embrace the environment and let its restorative powers ameliorate mind, body and soul.
Built on the principles of restoration and rejuvenation of both person and place, InterContinental The Red Sea Resort leans into the landscape; harnessing energy from the island, a breath of new life. With interiors crafted by Kristina Zanic Consultants, eco-conscious design and minimalist elegance fuse with a deep connection with nature, intensifying its beauty but never taking away. Lightweight structures, native landscaping and minimal impact foundations speak a new language of luxury, one not defined by excess but by intention and considered restraint. No less impressive, yet profoundly impactful.
Inspired by the mysteries of a maze, the interiors call for exploration, reflection and reconnection. Immersive by design, curved façades and soft lines flow into fluid, open spaces that echo the mellifluous landscape, warmed with natural textures and handcrafted details. Each room and suite drinks in the topography, imagined to give the impression they’ve washed up on the beach like driftwood and found a home amongst the sand. Conceptualised with neuroscience principles to support rest and renewal, light woods blend with oceanic hues, low-carbon materials and solar-powered systems ensure the gentlest of touch on the environment and curated artworks celebrate the artistic legacy of Saudi creatives. Sensitive, lasting.
Island life emulates this sense of purity where barefoot luxury meets enriching experiences designed to ground. A soulful, family-friendly retreat shaped by sunlight, sea air and the quiet power of sustainability. Mother Nature guides the rhythm of the day. Sunlight hours beckon time spent at sea, gliding through mangrove-fringed waters, exploring the majesty of the world’s fourth largest coral reef beneath the surface; unhurried strolls discovering the delicate ecosystem of the mangrove forests; or simply relinquishing oneself to Shura’s slower pace of life by the pool or beach. Through Endless Horizons, guests are empowered to explore their own horizon, with tailored experiences centred around wellness, culinary discovery, adventure and conservation curated for the individual. Children are considered important ambassadors, too. Conceived to spark creativity and curiosity, Planet Trekkers Club blends both land and sea adventures through thoughtful activities. A welcoming safe space for children to thrive, leaving parents with peace of mind to unwind.
Silken sands lead the way to Spa InterContinental. Cradled by stillness and scenery, treatments are infused with the enriching powers of the island. Through soothing rituals, tailored treatments and mindful classes, each moment is designed to awaken calm, restore balance and leave your mind and soul gently transformed.
From soulful to plentiful, the journey continues with culinary immersion celebrating culture, connection and place. Fusing local traditions with global flavours and inflections, five unique dining concepts bring the world to Shura, and Saudi Arabia to the world. Darein evokes the warmth and richness of Moroccan and Levantine hospitality inspired by Phoenician voyagers, while Murrma honours the timeless traditions of handcrafted Arabic coffee, sipped in a setting inspired by the calm of the mangroves. Fiery South American flavours and flair are found at Ardo, each dish offering a sensory exploration, from fire charred meats to cool citrus notes; simple ingredients, reinvented classics and the sun-soaked charm of the Mediterranean bring Chimes to life; and The 305 captures the retro- glam vibes of Miami, where the rhythm of the day leads into night with Latin American-inspired dishes, cocktails and a cigar lounge.
In harmony with the natural ebb and flow of island living, each experience is guided by the tenets of regenerative tourism: to give back to the land. Benefitting from the beauty of Shura’s turquoise lagoons, untouched beaches and unspoiled landscapes, quiet moments of reflection lead to richer connection, inviting all those who visit to act as nature’s conduits, contributing to the ongoing protection, preservation and rejuvenation of this extraordinary destination.
From peaceful mornings to golden afternoons and moonlit moments, the island slowly reveals itself, mysteries unfolding before you. The more time you spend here, the more time you get back, such is the nature of a modern escape built on mindful principles. Stewarding the environment, nurturing the land and reclaiming ourselves in the process. ihg.com
Photography by Vladimir Martí
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