The Oberoi Wadi Safar by Aedas: Where Heritage Architecture Meets Unrivaled Luxury

Project: The Oberoi Wadi Safar
Location: Saudi Arabia, Diriyah
Client: Diriyah Company
Design and Project Architect: Aedas
Design Director: Ignacio Gomez, Global Design Principal
Gross Floor Area: 19,230~ sqm
Completion Year: On-going

After winning the design competition, Aedas took on the project of designing The Oberoi Wadi Safar, an ultra-luxury landmark hospitality project situated in a natural retreat, northwest of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Wadi Safar is a geographic area and wadi system located north-west of Riyadh. It is a natural retreat with the vision to become the destination of exclusive luxury experiences derived from the rich natural environment and the heritage of Najd region.

The masterplan is designed as a date farm, with 55 Standard villas, 4 Deluxe, and 1 Presidential Suite arranged around courtyards in the ultra-luxury hotel to be operated by Oberoi. It also features 10 branded residential villas, a ballroom, one specialty restaurant, a pool bar, a spa, a fitness center and a kids center, private gardens, and the main falaj (a traditional irrigation channel), creating an enchanting and harmonious living environment. Deluxe Villas and the Presidential Villa are situated in prime locations, boasting private gardens, pools, and exceptional views for a truly exclusive luxury experience.

The main inspiration was taken from the context of Wadi Safar and the rural legacy of Najd architecture. This is not an urban context, like that of Al Turaif where the public space is defined clearly by the density of the built environment. In Wadi Safar, the space is defined by the landscape and productive use of the land.

The palms, the irrigation system (falaj), the crops and the fields offer an alternative approach to the urban grid. The palm groves and water dominate the distribution of spaces, and more importantly the arrays of experiences. Aedas fully utilizes this extraordinary site by creating a lush oasis of 'thousand date palms', alongside the falaj and multiple water features.

Through this design Aedas fosters a mystical beauty and serenity within this new luxury retreat deeply rooted in local heritage. This project offers a sense of belonging and connection to the nature miles away from the busy city life. The ultimate luxury experience is rendered through the architectural design, its interior and landscape approaches, and adheres to Oberoi brand standards.

The main entrance is defined by a symmetrical colonnade framing a central courtyard, creating an impressive and welcoming experience. The arrival experience from the drop-off to the lobby is carefully designed to immerse guests in a natural environment, with strategically placed shading for comfort.

The architecture of the main hotel entrance, defined by deep walls and free-standing mud rendered piers, is carried through to the ballroom entrance. Framing the arrival experience are two water features with fountains and large palm trees. The vehicular guest arrival and drop off area is to the east of the plot, outside the confines of the farm. No cars are visible from any internal part of the hotel.

Under the shade of a thousand palm trees, we decided to design a garden with fruits and vegetables most used in the Saudi kitchen. Our research led us to design six distinct gardens focused on figs, citrus, oranges, olives, native plants, and pomegranates. Each garden possesses its own unique characteristics, complemented by comfortable seating areas and captivating water features. We also created a path from the main lobby so that people go through all the fruit gardens and can fully explore and experience the site.

Key amenities and features include an infinity pool overlooking the landscape, water features, and multiple water bodies integrated into various architectural elements.

There are also outdoor seating areas with retractable shading for guest comfort and sun protection. Other key design elements are a yoga pavilion surrounded by water and connected to adjacent courtyards, and indoor common pool at the spa with glazing that offers a visual connection to the landscape.

Exclusive dining experiences are on offer in the specialty restaurant with incredible views; it has a private table for two further out towards the escarpment for those looking for an intimate celebration. There is a kids center with indoor play areas and outdoor water features. Butler rooms are strategically placed for efficient guest service. There is an abundance of green spaces, date palms, and lush landscaping throughout the project.

The sunken seating at the front of the terrace is open to the sky, creating an enchanting setting at night. This allows guests to enjoy a unique stargazing opportunity, and the absence of light pollution in the area provides a clear view of the celestial wonders above. Additionally, the seating is surrounded by the serene falaj water body that enhances the sensation of floating, further immersing guests in a tranquil and magical atmosphere.

The Oberoi Wadi Safar aims to redefine the concept of luxury hospitality, offering guests an immersive experience inspired by the local culture and natural beauty of the Najd region. With its exceptional design, luxurious amenities, and attention to detail, it strives to create unforgettable moments and provide a haven of tranquility for its guests.