- Shebara retains Two MICHELIN Keys, while Desert Rock also wins the 2026 MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award
Riyadh, 21 Sep 2026 – Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has announced that Desert Rock has been awarded Three MICHELIN Keys, becoming the first resort in Saudi Arabia to receive the highest distinction awarded within The MICHELIN Guide’s global hotel selection. Shebara has also retained Two MICHELIN Keys as part of the 2026 selection, while Desert Rock has been named the winner of the 2026 MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award.
The recognition marks a proud milestone for the Kingdom and for The Red Sea, with two of RSG’s resorts, operated by Red Sea Global Hospitality, recognized among the world’s most exceptional hotels. Announced just days ahead of Saudi National Day, the achievements reflect the rapid evolution of Saudi Arabia’s tourism and hospitality sector and its growing presence among the world’s leading luxury tourism destinations.
Desert Rock joins an exclusive group of just 155 hotels worldwide to hold Three MICHELIN Keys in 2026 and is one of only two properties in the GCC region to receive the distinction. Across this year’s global selection, MICHELIN has awarded 155 Three-Key hotels, 657 Two-Key hotels and 2,020 One-Key hotels.
“Receiving Three MICHELIN Keys and winning the MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award is an incredibly proud moment for Desert Rock, for Red Sea Global and, above all, for Saudi Arabia. To see a resort conceived, designed and developed here in the Kingdom recognized among the very best in the world demonstrates what is possible when ambition, creativity and respect for nature come together. We are equally proud to see Shebara retain its Two MICHELIN Keys, reaffirming its place among the world’s most exceptional hotels and recognizing the distinctive experience our teams have created on the Red Sea coast,”
Winning the 2026 MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award provides global recognition for the design philosophy behind Desert Rock. The award celebrates hotels where architecture goes beyond aesthetics to become an integral part of the guest experience and the identity of the place. Desert Rock was one of five hotels globally nominated for the award before being selected as the 2026 winner.
Located in a hidden valley between the mountains near Umluj, within The Red Sea destination, Desert Rock is approximately 20 minutes by road from Red Sea International Airport. The resort features 64 villas and suites carefully integrated into the natural rock formations, creating an experience that brings together luxury, privacy and adventure in harmony with its surroundings.
The Architecture & Design Award is one of only four Special Awards presented globally by the MICHELIN Guide in 2026, alongside awards recognizing Wellness, Local Gateway and Opening of the Year. The awards recognize hotels delivering exceptional experiences in areas that extend beyond the traditional hospitality offering.
Set on its own private island within the Al Wajh Lagoon, Shebara offers a very different experience on The Red Sea, surrounded by clear waters, white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Its 73 private-pool villas include the distinctive reflective overwater villas that appear like a string of pearls above the lagoon, while the island experience spans diving and snorkelling, sailing and electric water sports, five dining establishments and a nature-led spa.
Since welcoming its first guests in 2023, The Red Sea has continued to expand its selection of resorts, infrastructure and essential services. Today the destination has 11 hotels open, with six additional resorts scheduled to open on Shura Island in the coming months.
