Nestled within vast desert sands and sandstone cliffs in Saudi Arabia’s Ashar Valley, Banyan Tree AlUla redefines luxury. Easily accessible from Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dubai, this five-star oasis exudes an air of exclusivity, inviting discerning travellers to discover the heart of the world’s largest living museum. The resort’s elegant, one- to three-bedroom tented villas embody Arabian opulence with soaring high ceilings and authentic, handcrafted Arabian-inspired antiques. Each offers king-size beds, spacious outdoor areas with an external fire pit, and breathtaking panoramas of vast desert, towering sandstone cliffs, and rugged rock formations. Some villas also offer a private swimming pool, perfect for cooling off from the desert heat. Dining is a delight at Banyan Tree AlUla. Guests can indulge in authentic Thai cuisine at Saffron, Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant. Or enjoy a taste of Arabia at Harrat. The resort’s Middle Eastern fusion restaurant expertly fuses traditional regional ingredients with contemporary culinary techniques.

Elevate your dining experience beyond the confines of the restaurant walls with a gourmet picnic amidst the ancient ruins, a luxurious barbecue under the desert sun, a traditional Bedouin-style feast under a canopy of a million stars, or a romantic breakfast for two, served in the seclusion of your villa pool. Resort guests can explore the majestic desert landscape on horseback, hike through canyons, or bike along scenic trails. For an even more extraordinary experience, take to the skies in a hot-air balloon to marvel at the breathtaking views from above, or stargaze under a blanket of a million stars. After a day of exploration or simply soaking up the desert sun, retreat to the resort’s naturally treated water pool, nestled amidst the majestic sandstone mountains of the Ashar Valley. Or let expert hands transport you to a state of complete tranquility as you indulge in a world of pampering treatments at the resort’s Banyan Tree spa, where ancient Arabian traditions and Asian rituals meet modern techniques to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul.