Exterior of Banyan Tree AlUla’s two-bedroom villa. Credit: © Accor.

French hospitality company Accor is set to open its first Banyan Tree branded property in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s AlUla city.

Developed by the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), the new resort, Banyan Tree AlUla, is scheduled to open in October.

The latest opening builds upon a previously signed agreement between RCU and Accor, which aimed to develop AlUla as a tourist destination.

RCU Hotels and Resorts head and executive director John Northen said: “The Banyan Tree AlUla opening marks the completion of the final development phase of Ashar Valley, which also houses the world-famous Maraya Hall.

“The selection of Banyan Tree to operate this resort was driven by the brand’s synergy with the vision of the Royal Commission for AlUla for the destination.”

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Besides, the property will have two dining options, including Saffron and a brand’s signature Thai restaurant.

Offering a mix set of culture, history and entertainment, the new tented resort is inspired by the by the nomadic nature of Nabataean architecture.

According to Accor, the property has been designed on the basis of three major concepts, including in-villa, in-valley and en-voyage.

Guests availing in-villa concept will receive customised amenities, while the in-valley concept includes outdoor treatments, active adventures and allows the visitors to stage private events.

The third concept, en-voyage, majorly showcases AlUla’s legacy and heritage.

Banyan Tree Group CEO and president Eddy See said: “Since we started our journey 28 years ago, we have been pioneers of the all-pool villa concept, and now we bring our purposeful, sustainably designed concepts to AlUla with all-tented villas that complement the existing eco-destination.”

In 2020, RCU and Accor signed a partnership agreement to operate Ashar Resort under Banyan Tree brand.