Tourism Breaking News
Thuwal Private Retreat, the only private island off the coast of Jeddah that can be rented as a full-service, exclusive-use property, is opening its doors to guests starting this week. Reservations are now open for stays on this idyllic island surrounded by pristine Red Sea waters, exclusively reserved for just one group at a time. Located in an archipelago a 40-minute private boat transfer from KAUST North Marina in northern Jeddah, Thuwal Private Retreat is close enough to the city to make for a quick and convenient getaway, yet far enough away to feel disconnected from the world. The island offers the perfect playground for families and groups of friends looking for a fully personalized, completely bespoke and completely different escape.
Thuwal Private Retreat offers an idyllic escape for up to 12 adults and three children, capturing the essence of coastal living in a barefoot-chic style. Guests can enjoy a range of activities from adventurous underwater explorations to moments of deep relaxation. The exclusive-use private island allows visitors to customize their experience.
The Three-Bedroom Master Beach Villa features 185 square meters of elegant indoor space, including a fully equipped kitchen and spacious living areas, alongside 395 square meters outdoors with a pool and large sun deck. The villa, designed with soothing neutrals and natural materials, overlooks stunning sands and turquoise waters. Accommodating six adults and one child, it includes a luxurious Master Bedroom and two additional bedrooms.
Guests can also unwind in three One-Bedroom Beach Pavilions, each 103 square meters, featuring inviting interiors and private outdoor terraces. Ideal for two adults and one infant, these pavilions include bathrooms that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces, complete with private showers and bathtubs.
Surrounded by breathtaking vistas of the Red Sea, the Overwater Diwaniya offers a serene retreat with an open kitchen, spacious living and dining areas, and a large outdoor terrace. Perfect for social gatherings or aquatic adventures, this favorite spot allows guests to dive into the natural swimming pool, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the reef. After a day of fun, enjoy a barbecue on the terrace. Nearby, the Beach Bar and Restaurant serves lazy lunches, frozen mocktails at sunset, and gourmet dinners, followed by movies at the starlight beach cinema.
Personalized service and a dedicated Island Manager
At Thuwal Private Retreat, a dedicated team, led by Island Manager Sara Al Marghalani, ensures a memorable stay infused with the genuine spirit of Saudi hospitality, known as hafawah. The attentive staff meets every guest’s needs while maintaining a respectful distance, allowing for privacy and relaxation. Essential personnel are available throughout the stay, creating an atmosphere of comfort. Thuwal Private Retreat truly embodies its name, providing an ideal sanctuary for a tranquil escape.
Completely bespoke culinary programming
All stays at Thuwal Private Retreat are on a full-board basis, and include daily breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, soft drinks and mocktails. A dedicated team of chefs is on hand to prepare whatever guests want, whenever and wherever they want it. From floating breakfasts in the pool to long barbecue lunches by the beach, sushi and sashimi onboard a private yacht, torchlit banquets and gourmet cinema snacks, the talented culinary team makes everything possible, whether the guests prefer to dine in air-conditioned comfort, or enjoy the castaway life of this private island.
An active stay surrounded by pristine Red Sea waters
Thuwal Private Retreat, set against the pristine backdrop of the Red Sea, offers an array of aquatic adventures for guests seeking both relaxation and excitement. Those wishing to stay above water can enjoy activities such as sea kayaking, crystal kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), WingSUP, windsurfing, and E-foiling. Experienced watersports instructors are on hand to guide beginners, ensuring that the calm, clear waters provide a safe environment for trying new activities or honing skills.
Underwater exploration is equally enticing, with easy snorkeling opportunities at the Turquoise Hole natural swimming pool and house reef, where guests can spot vibrant fish like parrotfish and angelfish. More adventurous excursions are available for snorkelers wanting to explore wrecks and outer reefs, with instructor-led classes offered for beginners.
For diving enthusiasts, the retreat provides an ideal setting. Beginners can enroll in a PADI-certified course to learn diving techniques down to 12 meters, while seasoned divers can explore nearby reefs and shipwrecks. Thrill-seekers can also partake in night dives for a unique underwater experience.
On land, guests can unwind with massages, enjoy beach football or volleyball, or stroll around the island. A well-stocked library and various games offer leisurely entertainment, while the starlight beach cinema provides the perfect setting to enjoy movies accompanied by gourmet snacks.
A retreat for personal relaxation
Thuwal Private Retreat’s Spa Pavilion offers a serene escape with two treatment beds, a whirlpool, and a sauna. Guests can enjoy massages indoors or on the terrace, alongside a nature-inspired treatment menu. A gym overlooks the water, and personal trainers are available for enhanced workouts.
Reservations are now open for stays at Thuwal Private Retreat, offering exclusive luxury and customizable experiences by the Red Sea.
