The Chedi Hegra has officially opens its doors at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra in Saudi Arabia, inviting guests to experience an unparalleled fusion of history, luxury, and cultural immersion.
Built out of the vestiges of the Hegra Train station and set amidst the ancient Nabataean city surrounded by several other ancient heritage sites, The Chedi Hegra promises an exceptional journey that connects travellers to the rich heritage and captivating beauty of AlUla.
Hegra, located in Northwest Saudi Arabia, dates to the 1st century BCE and was once a major city along the historic Incense Road. The railway route, constructed in 1907 under the supervision of German engineer Heinrich Meissner, served as an important link from Medina to Damascus, facilitating the movement of pilgrims and goods. With 200,000 years of human history and its remarkable heritage, the AlUla region is a significant hub of cultural and historical discovery. The Chedi Hegra, preserves the original railway structures, seamlessly blending the past with a tranquil modern experience.
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The architecture and interiors of The Chedi Hegra, harmonise historical elements with contemporary sophistication, capturing the unique character of this extraordinary location. A central feature of the property is the Shadow Canopy, known as Lamellae — a 700-metre-long structure that unites historic railway tracks with modern design, creating a serene space for reflection and exploration.
Art at The Chedi Hegra serves as a bridge between the past and present, bringing Hegra’s rich story to life. The hotel offers guests an immersive artistic journey through the region’s history, creating a space where culture and design merge effortlessly.
“The opening of The Chedi Hegra represents a significant moment in the ongoing development of AlUla as a must-visit heritage and cultural destination. This unique property, conceived from the vestiges and romance of one of history’s most significant rail routes, offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience the UNESCO site of Hegra at all the most magical hours,” said Phillip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer, Royal Commission for AlUla.
“This boutique property is the epitome of AlUla’s vision to be a leading tourism destination that prioritises sustainable place-making and preserves the culture and natural beauty of the region. We are excited to see The Chedi Hegra become an integral part of AlUla’s journey.”The Chedi Hegra features 35 restored rooms, suites and villas, offering stunning views of the surrounding desert, including the necropolis and nature-carved rock formations. The limited number of rooms reflects the hotel’s commitment to preserving the original structures, with many rooms created from existing buildings on-site, incorporating original stone walls and historic architectural features. T
Beyond the hotel’s luxurious offerings, guests can dive into the rich heritage of AlUla with a variety of curated experiences. From guided tours of the UNESCO site to exploring Hegra Wildlife and Nature, visitors can witness the natural beauty of a sanctuary that protects endangered species like the Arabian Oryx, Gazelles and Nubian Ibex. The property’s desert-inspired gardens and pathways offer a peaceful setting for relaxation, with plans to introduce a tram system beneath the Shadow Canopy at a later stage to enhance exploration across the expansive property.
The property features a dedicated villa with spa facilities, including a private pool, offering signature treatments inspired by AlUla’s natural ingredients such as dates, rosemary and moringa. Additionally, a 1,200-square-metre spa and wellness centre housed in a historic mud-brick villa is set to open in the coming months, featuring saunas, steam rooms, and post-treatment relaxation areas.
