Desert Rock Becomes The First Resort In Saudi Arabia To Receive Three MICHELIN Keys

Desert Rock Resort has become the first resort in Saudi Arabia to receive Three MICHELIN Keys, the highest distinction awarded within The MICHELIN Guide’s global hotel selection, whilst the iconic Shebara Resort has retained Two MICHELIN Keys as part of the 2026 selection.

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.

The resort has also been named the winner of the 2026 MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award. Hidden within the ancient granite landscape of the Hijaz Mountains, Desert Rock was designed by Oppenheim Architecture around the principle of building with the land rather than on it, with villas, suites and shared spaces carved into, suspended from and shaped around the mountains. Its 64 private-pool villas and suites are complemented by mountain adventures, stargazing, dining and wellness experiences shaped by the surrounding landscape.

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 destinations and a nature-led spa.

Both Desert Rock and Shebara are operated by Red Sea Global Hospitality, offering two distinct ways to experience The Red Sea on Saudi Arabia’s west coast.

Sébastien Carré, Group Head of Hospitality at Red Sea Global Hospitality, said: “This is a landmark moment for Red Sea Global Hospitality, and a proud one for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The three MICHELIN Keys and the Architecture & Design Award for Desert Rock, alongside Shebara retaining its Two Keys, place both resorts among the most exceptional in the world. Desert Rock and Shebara were created to represent Saudi Arabian hospitality on a global stage. To see them recognised by MICHELIN in this way is a moment of immense pride for everyone who brought them to life.”

The MICHELIN Key recognises outstanding hotels within The MICHELIN Guide’s global selection. Three Keys represent its highest level of distinction, with the 2026 selection featuring more than 2,800 Key hotels, selected from more than 9,000 hotels within the Guide.