Oberoi’s First Saudi Escarpment
The Oberoi Sukoonvilas, Wadi Safar opens in the first quarter of 2027 with 60 villas, 30 minutes from Riyadh. The first hotel in Diriyah's Wadi Safar, and a new pre- or post-Riyadh stay.
Most of Riyadh’s new luxury rooms are in the city itself. The Oberoi Sukoonvilas, Wadi Safar, due to open in the first quarter of 2027, is a villa resort half an hour out. It is the first Saudi resort for Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, owned by India’s EIH Ltd, and, according to developer Diriyah Company, the first hotel to open in Wadi Safar, a valley about 30 minutes from Riyadh and close to the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district in Diriyah. For advisors, it creates a villa stay to pair with Riyadh’s events and Diriyah’s heritage sites.
The property
According to Oberoi’s release:
- 60 standalone villas and 10 branded residences, spread across more than 37 acres.
- The resort sits on a 70-metre escarpment above the valley, with architecture by Aedas and interiors by design studio Blink, drawing on Najdi building traditions with shaded courtyards and pools.
- A 65-metre infinity pool overlooking Wadi Safar, plus hammams, indoor wellness pools and the ASMI by Oberoi wellness program.
Dining is a draw in its own right. Yatra serves contemporary Indian cuisine curated by Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai. Linnet is a café and patisserie led by pastry chef Lily Vanilli. Beyla serves international food, and there is poolside dining over the escarpment.
What they’re saying
“Wadi Safar presents a rare opportunity to create a resort experience that is deeply rooted in the history, culture and natural beauty of its surroundings,” said Vikram Oberoi, CEO of Oberoi Hotels & Resorts.
“The opening of The Oberoi Sukoonvilas will mark an important milestone for Wadi Safar as the first hotel to welcome guests,” said Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Company, as reported by HOTELS.
Why it matters
Oberoi has a loyal following among well-travelled clients, and this property is all about private villas, pools and space. In a Saudi market full of large new-build hotels, a 60-villa property is small and private by design. Opening first in Wadi Safar also gives Oberoi a head start in a destination Diriyah Company is building around heritage and wellness.
For advisors
- Who to pitch: repeat Oberoi guests, and clients combining Riyadh, Diriyah and AlUla who want two or three nights out of the city.
- When: the cooler months from late autumn to early spring suit an escarpment resort best. Q1 2027 opening means the first season will be short; confirm dates before promising them.
- What to book: a villa with private pool; a table at Yatra.
- Watch for: the confirmed opening date, rates and whether Oberoi offers an opening offer for trade partners.
Sources
Hotel Watch columnist. Openings, the business of hospitality and what sustainability looks like in daily operations.