Saudi Arabia boasts a whole slew of resorts along its stunning Red Sea coast, with plenty also in Jeddah itself. More are scattered up the coastline, at Durrat Al-Arous, King Abdullah Economic City, and of course, further north at the much vaunted Red Sea Project.
Prices vary enormously depending on location, and range from affordable in lesser-known resort areas, to expensive for the most exclusive and luxurious destinations. Regardless of your budget, Jeddah is a favourite escape for locals in search of cool sea breezes during the Kingdom's hot summer. Not to mention the warm welcome that's extended to everyone who arrives here, from families with kids to solo travellers.
These are some of our favourite beach resorts in and around Jeddah that allow you to relax and forget the real world exists for a while.
1. Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Best resort for astonishing eco-luxury
Everyone’s talking about Saudi’s Red Sea tourism project, which aims to develop 100% carbon-neutral eco-resorts across islands, beaches and mountains. The good news is that a handful of resorts have opened already, including Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on Ummahat Island. This private island is accessible only by speedboat or seaplane and features 63 seashell-shaped villas, some of which ‘float’ over the water, and each is constructed with natural materials.
The indoor-outdoor feel extends to the luxurious spa and restaurants, and there are opportunities to connect with the surrounding environment through diving, kayaking and windsurfing. There’s also a Conservation House, which will educate guests about the local landscape.
2. Narcissus Obhur Resort & Spa
Best resort for families with kids
Those looking to combine a beachy break with Jeddah’s urban attractions should look to this relaxed resort. Obhur is a touristy, coastal part of northern Jeddah, far enough away from the city hubbub for a tranquil feel, while close enough to still be able to access the major sights easily. Narcissus Obhur Resort & Spa has the all-important private beach access many out-of-town visitors are looking for too, with plenty of watersports activities to make the most of it – jet skiing, windsurfing and sailing among them.
More of a pool person than a beach person? Men and children can use the outdoor swimming pools, while there’s an indoor swimming pool for women only. The resort is popular with families, who love the warm and friendly service from the staff, and there’s a great variety of kid-friendly activities on offer.
3. Rixos Obhur Jeddah
Best resort for jaw-dropping glamour
Just when you thought you'd seen all the glitz and glamour a resort can dazzle you with, Rixos came to town. The renowned international hospitality brand has rocked up to Jeddah and is taking the resort scene by storm with this five-star, all-inclusive offering. Take your pick from lavish suites and huge villas, all with sweeping views of the sparkling Red Sea. Located in Jeddah's popular Obhur Bay, the resort offers a wide selection of restaurants and lounges – there's a strong possibility you may never want to leave.
Step into the sleek, stylish and calming environs of the Avitane spa, which offers the very latest in beauty treatments and holistic massage. When you've fully relaxed, make your way to the exclusive private beach area or one of the numerous pristine pools with attentive staff ready to make this the holiday of a lifetime. There's even a Kids' Club to keep your little travellers happy and busy, allowing Mum and Dad some well-earned relaxation time in the sun.
4. Oìa Beach Resort
Best resort for an exclusive feel
Ultra-exclusive and ultra-luxurious, Oía is a boutique beach resort, designed with enough floaty white linens and Santorini-blue textiles to give the impression that the entire resort has been parachuted in from a Greek island. There are beautiful white-washed villas to rent, an on-site sushi bar, cinema, micro-gym and swimming pools (many of the residential units come with their own private pools too), as well as an elegant private beach.
How to get in? Well, it’s members and residents-only, plus their guests, so get scrolling through your Jeddah contacts pronto if you want to score an invite this summer. Otherwise, you’ll need to stump up upwards of SAR 17,250 for an annual membership. Worth it? We think so…
5. Waldorf Astoria Jeddah Qasr Al Sharq
Best resort for a downtown stay
Definitely one for the grown-ups, the Waldorf is hands-down one of the most opulent resorts in the region, with old-world luxury decor in spades – think gold leaf furnishings, imported marble, and crystal chandeliers everywhere you look.
There’s a ladies-only spa here with an aquamedic swimming pool under a retractable glass roof, while men can work out at the adjacent Jeddah Hilton’s men-only health club. This is a super spot for combining beach and city – the resort is steps away from the Jeddah Corniche.
6. St. Regis Red Sea Resort
Best resort to feel like a celebrity
Cristiano Ronaldo brought Instagram to a standstill when his partner posted a picture of their stay at the St. Regis Red Sea Resort when it opened in 2024. This is another luxury hotel in the Red Sea Project, and it's already causing a stir in the travel industry. Located in the Al Wajh Lagoon, the resort is just 25 minutes by seaplane or 45 minutes by speedboat from the mainland – though you'll feel like you've been transported to a tropical paradise. It's a bit of a hike north of Jeddah, but well worth the effort.
Choose from one of the many exceptional villas and enjoy your own private plunge pool above the clear, calm waters of the Red Sea. When you feel like company, hop in a buggy and be whisked away to the main resort area full of exclusive restaurants and luxurious poolside cabanas. The Red Sea Project is setting a new standard for luxury on the global resort scene, and we can't wait to see what comes next.
