Marriott International is building three hotels in a new luxury island destination called Sindalah, as part of Saudi’s futuristic destination Neom. Jenny Southan reports

Marriott International has announced it has signed an agreement with Neom to open three properties (one under its Autograph Collection brand and two Luxury Collection hotels) on its luxury island destination Sindalah, situated in the Red Sea off the northwest coast of Saudi Arabia.

The first destination in Neom to start welcoming guests, Sindalah is expected to welcome guests from early 2024. The three properties from Marriott are expected to be the first hotels to open on the island.

Jerome Briet, chief development officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Marriott International, says: “Neom is one of the most highly-anticipated developments in the world and we look forward to working with its team to develop these three exciting properties.

“The Luxury Collection and Autograph Collection Hotels properties will express their own unique personality inspired by the exceptional natural landscapes of Neom. We continue to see growth opportunities for our brand portfolio within the destination and Saudi Arabia overall.”

The Luxury Collection is expected to open two properties featuring “transformational experiences” and “destination-rooted authenticity”. The first will be a beach resort that will offer a mix of 70 luxury rooms and suites, including one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom villas all featuring private pools.

The second  will be an all-suite property offering 115 one-, two- and three-bedroom luxury suites, and will be situated in the heart of the retail and marina district of Sindalah.Sindalah in NEOMThe Autograph Collection property in Sindalah will offer “rich immersive moments that will leave a lasting imprint for guests”. Plans for the resort include 66 rooms and suites, including one- and two-bedroom villas, multiple dining options, a kids club and a spa.

Sindalah is the first of a group of islands that will be developed in Neom and is set to be among the “most alluring” destinations in the Red Sea.

Extending over an area of approximately 840,000 sqm, Sindalah will be a new destination for one-of-a-kind nautical and yachting experiences, located just 17 hours by boat from the Mediterranean and featuring a prestigious 86-berth marina for yachts up to 75 meters and serviced offshore buoys for superyachts up to 180 metres.

Additionally, the island will include over 400 ultra-premium hotel rooms and 300 top-end suites, a beach club, a yacht club, and 38 restaurants and bars.

Chris Newman, executive director of hotel Development at Neom, says: “Marriott International offers one of the most compelling portfolios in the entire industry and enjoys a stellar reputation in the region.

“We are thrilled by the prospect of working together and look forward to building a hospitality experience that captures the spirit of Sindalah’s year-long appeal, while creating unforgettable memories for our guests.”