When the Saudis create...
An ancient natural bay, surrounded by towering cliffs reaching 400 meters high and the azure waters of Akampah Gulf, transforms into a world of luxury.
In the Leyja project, situated in the picturesque Akampah Gulf in northwestern Saudi Arabia, architects were called upon to create three "luxurious high-end boutique hotels."
Hotel Adventure
Chris van Duijn from the renowned architectural firm OMA presented Adventure, a hotel tailored for mountain enthusiasts, serving as a hub for climbers and hikers, complete with a spa, sky lounge, and sky pool. The building resembles a staircase climbing the edge of the cliff, with its vertical structure extending asymmetrically into the rocks, creating terraces with overhangs that incorporate pools.
Hotel Oasis
Leyja's second hotel, Oasis, is located in the heart of the valley. It features a staircase leading to the gorge, providing easy access to guests eager to explore the futuristic environment. This architectural marvel is a geometric tower with five peaks emerging from the rocks, promising breathtaking views of the wadi, designed by the renowned Mario Cucinella Architects. The hotel will boast a garden with minerals, an observation deck, hanging gardens, and a rooftop pool.
Hotel Wellness
The triad is completed with Wellness, a sanctuary featuring two vertical volumes adorned with state-of-the-art mirrors on the facade, reflecting the imposing natural landscape. An entire floor will be dedicated to well-being, while pools will adorn the summits of the buildings. "This reflection is created, where it is impossible to distinguish between the building and the mountain. One of the greatest challenges is to create beautiful buildings that evoke emotions, that are timeless and sustainable," comments Shaun Killa, founder of Killa Design.
When completed, Leyja will offer a rich variety of high-quality experiences and activities: fine dining restaurants with globally renowned chefs' signature dishes, spas and endless pools, extensive hiking trails with expert guides on thrilling paths, mountain biking, and climbing for adventure seekers. Additionally, a 73-kilometer hiking trail will connect the three hotels to the Trojena ski resort, which is also part of Neom. Neom is an ambitious development project (the name comes from the Greek word "neon," meaning "new," and the Arabic "mustaqbal," meaning "future"), shaped by Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 program, aiming to transform Saudi Arabia's economy and reduce its dependence on oil.
Leyja is promoted as a destination for "luxury ecotourism," and, as in previous Neom projects, many announcements have been made regarding the project's sustainability and its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and using renewable energy sources. "Neom is based on a highly sustainable approach. The world needs to understand how we can develop positive solutions for our lives. Each building will be designed with respect and harmony with nature and the environment," stated architect van Duijn in a Leyja presentation video.
