Dusit International has announced a significant milestone in its Middle East expansion with the signing of a hotel management agreement for dusitD2 Al Ahsa—a new upper-upscale resort nestled in the heart of Al Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in eastern Saudi Arabia.
Set to open in 2027, the resort marks Dusit’s second confirmed property in the Kingdom and reflects the brand’s growing presence across the Gulf region.
A Landmark Project in a UNESCO Oasis
The signing ceremony took place under the esteemed patronage of HRH Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr Al Saud, Governor of Al Ahsa, and was attended by senior figures including Mr Naif Al Madi of the Tourism Development Fund, Sheikh Bassem Al Ghadeer, Chairman of Al Ghadeer Group, and Mr Gilles Cretallaz, COO of Dusit International.
Strategically located just 30 minutes from Al Ahsa International Airport and 90 minutes from Dammam, the resort is designed to offer a luxurious retreat framed by palm-filled landscapes and dramatic mountain scenery. Its positioning within the largest oasis in the world makes it uniquely attractive for travellers seeking nature, culture, and elevated comfort in one destination.
Elevated Living Rooted in Local Identity
The 120-suite resort will offer one- to three-bedroom accommodations, each featuring private terraces and plunge pools for maximum privacy and relaxation. Designed by Cairo-based El Ghoneimi Architects, the resort will blend organic forms, natural textures, and regional inspirations—particularly the symbolism of the palm tree, which is integral to Al Ahsa’s landscape and culture.
“This destination will be more than a resort—it will be a retreat rooted in local heritage, designed to harmonize with its surroundings while delivering the signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality Dusit is known for,” said Gilles Cretallaz, COO of Dusit International.
Wellness, Culture, and Family-Centric Hospitality
dusitD2 Al Ahsa will feature an extensive range of amenities, including:
A wellness centre with yoga zones, holistic healing rooms, and spa treatments
A 1,500 sq m ballroom and expansive outdoor event space for weddings and corporate gatherings
Modern meeting rooms for business travellers
A vibrant all-day restaurant, lobby café, and large outdoor pool with an adjoining children’s pool
A dedicated kids club for young guests
Surrounded by must-see landmarks like Al Qarah Mountain, Juatha Park, and the historic Qaisariah Souq, the resort is positioned as a perfect base for immersive travel and eco-cultural tourism.
Expanding the Dusit Footprint in Saudi Arabia
With this signing, Dusit strengthens its commitment to sustainable tourism development in Saudi Arabia, aligning with national efforts to diversify and enrich the Kingdom’s hospitality landscape under Vision 2030. It follows the upcoming Dusit Princess Al Majma’ah in Riyadh, scheduled to open in Q4 2025, and reinforces the company’s ambition to become a key hospitality player in the region.
