2 Envi nature retreats to debut in Saudi Arabia in 2026

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Render of pool at Envi Al Nakheel, Al Ahsa

GCC-based luxury eco-lodge brand Envi Lodges will expand its sustainable hospitality portfolio in 2026 with the opening of four new properties across the Middle East and Africa, including two in Saudi Arabia. The upcoming lodges in Al Ahsa and Taif mark the brand’s debut in the kingdom, adding 60 nature-inspired villas that fuse contemporary comfort with an ethos of regeneration.

Currently operating two lodges in Tanzania, Envi Lodges is known for purpose-driven experiences that champion sustainability, cultural authenticity and harmonious integration with the natural landscape.

Set to open in September 2026, Envi Al Nakheel will be located amid the Unesco-listed oasis of Al Ahsa, one of the world’s largest and most historic palm groves. Nestled within a traditional date farm, the retreat will feature 25 private pool villas surrounded by lush palm landscapes, reflecting the theme of “life under the palms”.

Render of Envi Al Nakheel

Envi Al Nakheel’s wellness-focused programming will incorporate treatments inspired by local healing traditions, complemented by a spa and wellbeing centre. The dining concept will spotlight farm-to-table menus that celebrate Al Ahsa’s agricultural heritage through seasonal produce and regionally inspired dishes.

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Scheduled to open in late 2026, Envi Al Shafa in Taif will introduce a fresh approach to regenerative, multi-generational travel in Saudi Arabia. Set more than 2,000 metres above sea level in the cool highlands near Mecca and Jeddah, the property will become the kingdom’s first high-altitude eco-lodge.

Its 35 villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms, will cater to families, couples, corporate groups and spiritually minded travellers seeking connection, renewal and a deeper sense of place.

Render: Villa at Envi Al Shafa, Taif

Among the lodge’s highlights are an open-air terrace restaurant specialising in flame-grilled and farm-to-table cuisine, a wellness centre with meditation gardens and hands-on harvesting experiences, and a culinary studio offering workshops in regional recipe creation and nutrition-focused cooking.

A dedicated entertainment hub will host creative and wellbeing-led activities—ranging from pottery and mindfulness sessions for children to longevity therapies and rejuvenation treatments for adults.

Beyond Saudi, two additional Envi Lodges are also set to open in Africa in 2026, expanding the brand’s portfolio on the continent to four properties. Envi Paje on Zanzibar’s southeast coast will feature 22 beachfront villas, most with private pools, and experiences including yoga, catamaran excursions and nature-inspired spa rituals.

Meanwhile, Envi Addo Private Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape will open in August 2026, set within a conservation reserve and comprising 10 safari tents and two lodges overlooking a wildlife-rich waterhole. Activities will include guided bush walks, cycling trails, wildlife encounters, meditation sessions and open-fire dining experiences.

Looking ahead, Envi plans to extend its regional presence with two projects in Oman – Envi Al Sifah and Envi Al Jabal Al Akhdar, both scheduled to open in 2027 – underscoring the brand’s commitment to redefining sustainable luxury across the GCC and beyond.

For more information, visit envilodges.com