THE CHEHI HEGRA, A LUXURIOUS GETAWAY TO SAUDI ARABIA’S UNESCO HERITAGE SITE
Nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, The Chedi Hegra is a groundbreaking new resort that seamlessly blends the ancient and the modern.
Set amid the ruins of the Hegra Railway Station, surrounded by the captivating remnants of the ancient Nabataean city and numerous other heritage sites, The Chedi Hegra offers guests an extraordinary journey into the past, with all the luxury and amenities of the present.
A Storied Location: Hegra’s Rich History
Located in northwest Saudi Arabia, Hegra (known as Al-Hijr in Arabic) dates back to the first century BC and was once a thriving city on the historic Incense Road. A crucial stop for traders and pilgrims traveling between the Arabian Peninsula and the Mediterranean, Hegra’s impressive rock-cut tombs, monumental facades, and natural rock formations speak volumes of its past significance. The region’s modern connection to the outside world was cemented in 1907 with the completion of the Hegra Railway, an ambitious project led by German engineer Heinrich Meissner. The railway served as a vital route from Medina to Damascus, facilitating both the movement of pilgrims and the flow of goods.
A Tribute to the Past, Designed for the Present
The Chedi Hegra is a testament to the region’s storied past and bright future. The resort has been carefully constructed within the original ruins of the Hegra Railway Station, preserving the historical structures while infusing them with modern design elements. The central feature of the property is the Shadow Canopy, also known as Lamellae—a striking 2,296-foot-long architectural structure that links the historic railway tracks with contemporary design. This canopy’s flowing curves provide both shade and style, making it the perfect backdrop for guests to relax and reflect on the past.
Inside The Chedi Hegra resort, guests will find an artful blend of heritage and modernity. A curated collection of historical art, including handcrafted pieces displayed in the Hegra Railway Gallery, offers a visual feast for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Exclusive and Intimate Accommodations
With only 35 rooms, suites, and villas, The Chedi Hegra provides a sense of intimacy and exclusivity that enhances the resort’s unique charm. The limited number of accommodations reflects a commitment to preserving the original structures. Many rooms have been thoughtfully created from existing buildings on-site, incorporating the original stone walls and architectural features of the railway station. Guests can enjoy private terraces, plunge pools, and interiors inspired by the Nabataean heritage of the region, all while being surrounded by the majestic desert landscape, the ancient necropolis, and nature-carved rock formations.
Culinary Delights with a Local Twist
Dining at The Chedi Hegra is an experience as rich and diverse as the region itself. Prima Classe, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, is housed in the historic train station, offering Mediterranean cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients. In the evening, the restaurant transforms into the Golden Hour Lounge, a perfect spot for guests to unwind with a drink while watching the desert sunset and admiring the beautifully restored Locomotive 964—a century-old steam engine that ran along the Hajj route until the 1920s. After a year-long restoration process involving over 15,000 man-hours, the locomotive is now a symbol of the resort’s commitment to preserving history.
For those looking for a more international experience, Al Mahattah Lounge offers gourmet bites, international cuisine, and a high-tea service, accompanied by stories from Rawi, the resort’s in-house storyteller. Guests can also immerse themselves in Saudi culture at the Saudi Coffee House, where they can participate in interactive workshops on brewing, roasting, and decorating traditional Saudi coffee cups.
In 2025, The Chedi Hegra will introduce several exciting new dining experiences. Al Mokhtasar will offer romantic dinners and themed feasts like “Madfoon” paired with live entertainment and storytelling. Al Qala’ah will be a fine dining experience featuring private rooms, a rooftop terrace overlooking the desert, while Al Mawrid promises an unforgettable dining experience beneath the stars.
Wellness Inspired by the Desert
The Chedi Hegra is as much about relaxation and rejuvenation as it is about exploration. Guests can indulge in wellness treatments inspired by the local ingredients of AlUla, such as dates, rosemary, and moringa. A dedicated wellness villa with private spa facilities and a pool is already available, while a grand 12,915-square-foot spa and wellness center is set to open soon. The center will feature saunas, steam rooms, and post-treatment relaxation areas, while an outdoor pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center provide plenty of opportunities for physical rejuvenation.
Immersive Experiences Beyond the Resort
Though The Chedi Hegra’s offerings are truly remarkable, guests will also have the opportunity to explore the rich heritage of AlUla beyond the resort’s grounds. From guided tours of the UNESCO World Heritage Site to explorations of the region’s wildlife and nature sanctuaries, visitors can enjoy curated experiences that bring the area’s natural beauty and history to life. The Hegra Wildlife and Nature Sanctuary is home to endangered species such as the Arabian Oryx, gazelles, and Nubian ibex, offering guests the chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
For those looking to explore the vast desert landscape, plans are in place to introduce a tram system beneath the Shadow Canopy, which will allow for easy exploration of the sprawling property.
A New Era of Luxury and Heritage in Saudi Arabia
The opening of The Chedi Hegra marks a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s flourishing tourism industry, bringing together history, culture, and world-class luxury in an unparalleled setting. With its combination of intimate accommodations, exquisite dining, and immersive experiences, The Chedi Hegra offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the ancient Nabataean city of Hegra while enjoying the finest comforts of the modern world. Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or simply marvel at the desert’s stunning beauty, this is a destination unlike any other.
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