Saudi Arabia has officially marked its presence in the luxury hospitality club, and 7 Saudi hotels have been awarded the prestigious Michelin Keys. This ensures that the kingdom has been placed firmly on the global map for world-class hospitality. Think of this as the hotel world’s version of the Michelin Stars, but for stays so good, you’ll contemplate moving in. The names of these fancy Saudi hotels were unveiled at the Michelin Guide Ceremony in Paris. The first-ever Global Michelin Keys Selection sends the message that great hospitality will also be part of the recognised Michelin guide part and not just fancy restaurants.
Saudi Arabia Just Bagged 7 Michelin Keys & Here’s What It Means
As you know, Michelin stars are a guide to book your next meal; similarly, Michelin Keys tell you where to book your next stay.
According to a report by Arabian Business, here’s how it is categorised:
One Michelin Key: A ‘very special stay’: Unique, full of charm, and goes well beyond the basics.
Two Michelin Keys: An ‘exceptional stay’: Next-level experience with heart, character, and impeccable service.
Three Michelin Keys: An ‘extraordinary stay’: The absolute elite. The kind of place you reminisce about for years because everything was flawless.
To earn these Keys, inspectors visit anonymously and judge hotels on five universal criteria: design, service, personality, experience, and sense of place. No amount of marble or gold leaf can cheat this system.
The 7 Saudi Hotels Winning Big
Out of 2,457 hotels recognised across 120 destinations, Saudi Arabia’s seven winners reflect a country serious about redefining premium hospitality, in line with the ambition of Vision 2030 to transform the Kingdom into a global tourism powerhouse.
Awarded Two Michelin Keys:
- Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea-Desert serenity meets sustainable luxury.
- Shebara Resort-Futuristic eco-escape surrounded by the Red Sea’s marine life.
- Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve-Barefoot luxury at its finest.
- Desert Rock Resort-A masterpiece carved into mountains, redefining ‘escape’.
Awarded One Michelin Key:
- Banyan Tree AlUla
- Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq
- The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
A New Era of Arabian Hospitality
Saudi Arabia has made its mark by crafting its own brand of luxury through these fancy stays and more. They are here with world-class design and hospitality standards, and their names in the Michelin key guide is the proof of it.
Cover Image Courtesy: Michelin Guide/Website