Saudi Arabia’s most famous and well-publicized new mega-project, Neom, has announced yet another new development to add to the growing list of at least 15 sub-projects, cities, and resorts that already comprise the new region along the the kingdom’s Gulf of Aqaba coast. Unlike past announcements of new projects within Neom, which were larger in scale, this new entity appears to be a single resort focused on comprehensive physical, spiritual, and mental wellness.
The announcement from Neom’s Board of Directors, which appeared on the project’s website, spoke of 80 suites and rooms to be constructed, but gave little more in the way of specifics. Other “signature facilities” mentioned included public plazas, private dining, a sun garden, and an observation tower.
While the first traunch of Neom’s sub-projects announced in 2021 and 2022 (e.g., The Line, Oxagon, Trojena, and Sindalah) were much grander in scope and more on the level of full cities, Neom’s latest project announcements have been more along the lines of individual resort properties, including a wildlife retreat (Zardun), a beach club (Xaynor), and the latest – a wellness resort (Elanan).
Although Neom’s own announcement of its new property did not reveal much, the project’s American architectural firm was a little more generous in describing a vision what future visitors can expect at Elanan.
“As you approach Elanan you see a shimmering gold tower that is peaking behind the dunes,” said Bashayer Bamohsen of Mark Foster Gage Architects. “As you come closer to it the golden facade starts to reveal itself. It doesn’t reveal itself at once. The visitor goes through a journey to discover various experiences.”
In addition to Mark Foster Gage Architects, Dubai-based JT & Partners (JT+P), US-based Desimone Engineering, and UK-based Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) are also providing services to support the project.
