Red Sea sanctuary

The new Park Hyatt in Jeddah fuses a mix of European, Arab and Andalusian influences, says Selina Denman.

Set on reclaimed land on the shores of the Red Sea, the recently-opened Park Hyatt Jeddah - Marina, Club and Spa, is influenced both by its waterside location and by the old town of Jeddah.

"The multi-faceted resort is a remarkable feat of engineering that has reclaimed prime waterfront land from the Red Sea, while retaining the delicate surrounding marine life. The 34.5 acre complex overlooks sweeping views of the sea and the world-famous King Fahd fountain, with its over 1,000ft-high plume of water," noted Rady M. Rady, general manager, Park Hyatt Jeddah - Marina, Club and Spa.

The property is strategically located just minutes away from Jeddah's central business district, in the city's Al Hamra area, but presents itself as a serene, self-enclosed haven. In contrast to the high-rise buildings that characterise Jeddah's skyline, the 142-room resort is a low-lying, five-star retreat.

According to Rady, the interiors of the hotel promote the Park Hyatt ethos of "understated elegance and personalised, luxurious style". French interior designer Gilles Quiffet and architect Patrice Hart were responsible for translating this brand promise into a property that would appeal to affluent business and leisure guests visiting the rapidly-growing city of Jeddah.

"Park Hyatt Jeddah will meet demand for a luxurious city-centre resort hotel that offers personal service for the growing number of both leisure and business travellers visiting Jeddah," said Rady.

The main hotel is complemented by 10,000m² of spa, wellness, meeting, and F&B facilities. The Lazurde Meetings & Events Centre features 2,500m² of meeting and banqueting facilities and is accessible via a dedicated entrance. The facility was designed as an elegant setting for wedding parties, product launches, corporate meetings and conferences for up to 800 guests.

The hotel's spa and wellness facilities are expected to be ready later this year. A 10,000m² complex will feature a range of sporting and leisure facilities set out in separate men's and women's areas. The complex will also feature the region's first hydrotherapy centre.

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