Latest news with #DarTantoraTheHouseHotel
Mid East Info
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
AlUla becomes ultimate destination for house music with Poolside by AZIMUTH line-up - Middle East Business News and Information
AlUla, Saudi Arabia: The ancient city of AlUla has transformed into house music central as it unveils the full line-up of artists set to deliver unforgettable beats at Poolside by AZIMUTH. This one-of-a-kind summer series offers up an exclusive blend of music, luxury and desert serenity, and runs every weekend until 30 August. Designed for music lovers and luxury seekers alike, Poolside by AZIMUTH invites guests to soak in the beats and escape the summer heat from 4pm to 1am every weekend and bask under AlUla's starlit skies. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of AlUla's desert landscape, Poolside by AZIMUTH will take place across four top luxury hotels: Our Habitas AlUla, Banyan Tree AlUla, Dar Tantora The House Hotel and Shaden Resort. Each weekend offers a carefully curated lineup of talented DJs and artists, creating a unique atmosphere where guests can unwind and celebrate summer in style. Sunsoak at Our Habitas AlUla (25–26 July) Immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms of organic house and melodic beats at Our Habitas AlUla. On 25 July, enjoy performances by Yebari DJ Rawad and Elemento, followed by sets from IGX, Yan Musik, and Spacegurrl on 26 July. Golden Hour at Banyan Tree (1–2 August & 8-9 August) Feel the pulse of House and Disco House as Banyan Tree AlUla transforms into a haven of groove and glamour. Over two nights, artists including ROULAD, HAKIM, BASSLAW, OZZY, SALTY KH, and DJ LARGO will deliver electrifying sets under the stars. Taking over the decks on 8-9 August, KARAM MUSIK, HAFFS, SOUL, JK ERROR, CHILLS and APPIE bring two nights of deep rhythms, slick transitions and sonic elevation to AlUla. House of Soleil at Dar Tantora The House Hotel (15–16 August) As the sun sets on the ancient labyrinthine AlUla Old Town, a mellow flow of oriental – organic house takes over at Dar Tantora The House Hotel. With performances by SNOWZARD, SALTY KH, DJ BREEZE, 2ME, AMP, and SILVIO, these breezy evenings promise soft beats and soulful energy. Last Light at Shaden Resort (22–23 August & 29–30 August) Celebrate the final weekends of Poolside by AZIMUTH at Shaden Resort with two spectacular events. On 22–23 August, let the flowing rhythms of SNOWZARD, APPIE, BRQ, YAYA, DJ BREEZE, and IMMORTAL set the tone. Then, close out the series on 29–30 August with music grooves from RAG, SOUL SHARKK, AMP, KEH, and VIVA. Expect an energetic mix of Disco House, House, and open format styles—blending different genres with big room EDM for an unforgettable experience. With a limited capacity and exclusive setting, Poolside by AZIMUTH is a must-attend event for music lovers and luxury seekers alike.
CairoScene
20-07-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Sleeping in History: Heritage Hotels of the Middle East
Restored buildings across the Middle East preserve their old-world charm, blending rich cultural heritage with timeless architectural beauty and layered histories. In a region steeped in rich and layered history, conservation is more than preserving buildings - it's about breathing new life into their stories. This approach is reshaping architecture across the Middle East, but nowhere is it clearer and more celebrated than in hospitality, where guests and travellers from across the globe can experience the styles and fashions of the past directly. These five projects - each shaped by a distinct climate and culture - demonstrate how reusing existing structures offers renewed life while honouring their heritage... Beit Al Mamlouka, Damascus, Syria In the heart of Old Damascus, behind high pink walls and a heavy wooden door, Beit Al Mamlouka brings new life to a 17th-century Damascene house. Restored over three years by Syrian architect May Mamarbashi as part of her PhD, the building opened in 2004 as the city's first five-star boutique hotel. The house features architectural layers spanning centuries, including an 18th-century layout and a preserved mid-16th-century archway. The hotel offers eight rooms set around a central courtyard filled with citrus trees and the scent of jasmine. In 2007, a new owner with family roots in Syrian silk brocade took over the hotel, introducing authentic textile elements to the interiors. A former bayka (stable) has been adapted as a gallery, restaurant and bar, extending the site's original footprint while preserving its character. Manouchehri House, Kashan, Iran In Kashan's historic quarter, a neglected 19th-century merchant home has been restored by Akbar Helli and Shahnaz Nader. Now a boutique hotel and textile centre, Manouchehri House anchors a broader architectural and cultural revival in the city. The project aimed to revive endangered textile traditions - such as brocade, silk and velvet weaving - while reinhabiting a residential structure indicative of Kashan's heritage. The restored complex includes workshops, a fine dining venue, an art gallery, a handicraft shop, and a cinema adapted from the original cistern. Since its opening, the project has attracted global visitors and inspired similar initiatives across Kashan. Dar Tantora The House Hotel, AlUla, Saudi Arabia Tucked within the historic fabric of AlUla's Old Town, Dar Tantora The House Hotel transforms a cluster of traditional mud-brick homes into a low-impact, candlelit eco-retreat. Architect Shahira Fahmy led the restoration using hand-moulded bricks and original techniques, working closely with local artisans, archaeologists, and craftspeople. The project brings back traditional cooling methods, minimal electrical use, and the tantora sundial, which guides the layout and rhythm of the site. Interior surfaces are adorned with hand-painted murals - revived in collaboration with local students - that draw from the historic visual language of AlUla. The Ned Hotel, Doha, Qatar In Doha, a landmark of the city's early modern era has been carefully transformed. Originally designed in the 1970s by Lebanese architect William Sednaoui, the former Ministry of Interior building is now a 90-room boutique hotel that preserves a rare example of Middle Eastern brutalist architecture. The project is sensitively refurbished and extended with a new rooftop level housing a spa, fitness centre and club lounge overlooking the Persian Sea and city skyline. At podium level, a brise soleil canopy of slender concrete ribs provides shade to gardens, water basins and gathering spaces that draw on traditional passive cooling strategies. Inside, robust concrete is balanced by refined materials such as travertine, Iroko wood and marble. At its centre, a courtyard hosts restaurants and bars, creating a lively social core within the historic fabric. The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates Set within Sharjah's historic district, The Chedi Al Bait reimagines four coral stone heritage homes - once belonging to prominent local figures - into a seamless luxury retreat. The site's most significant structure, the residence of Ibrahim Bin Mohammed Al Midfa (Sharjah's first journalist), now houses a library and museum framed by original hand-painted doors and domes. Traditional Emirati elements such as wind towers, internal courtyards, and gypsum plaster have been preserved or revived, while new additions maintain a light footprint. A hidden passage links the hotel to Souq Al Arsah - one of the UAE's oldest marketplaces - allowing the past to remain present in daily experience.
Mid East Info
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
From Ancient Wonders to Modern Adventures: AlUla's 'Summer Untold' Offers Array of Authentic, Revitalising Experiences
AlUla, Saudi Arabia – April 2025: AlUla, the luxury heritage boutique destination in north-western Saudi Arabia, today announced its 'Summer Untold' program, offering a curated collection of experiences against the backdrop of its ancient wonders. From immersive noctourism experiences to unforgettable adventures, AlUla offers a unique and transformative escape for discerning travellers seeking a destination unlike any other. Unlike many destinations in the region, AlUla offers a more temperate summer climate, with average temperatures 5°C to 10°C lower than many cities across the region. This, combined with its commitment to preserving its unique natural and cultural heritage and a growing portfolio of exclusive resorts and experiences, makes AlUla an ideal escape for those seeking a sophisticated and enriching summer getaway, be it as an ideal 'bleisure' option, or a remote work escape. Adding to the appeal, AlUla offers a compelling value proposition during the summer months. Visitors can take advantage of unmatched summer rates on accommodations and experiences. This provides a perfect opportunity for travelers to extend their stay and get immersed in AlUla's diverse attractions. Summer in AlUla: Highlights Unparalleled hotel offers: AlUla's high-end resorts have become even more accessible this summer, with exceptional rates and exclusive deals available at participating hotels such as Banyan Tree AlUla, Chedi Hegra, Dar Tantora The House Hotel, and Our Habitas Resort. Visitors can also take advantage of great value offers at Cloud 7 Residences, Shaden Resort, and Ashar Tented Resort. Summer rates across the participating hotels start from SAR 633 for 4-star hotels and SAR 999 for 5-star hotels, depending on the property. Unforgettable Concerts: Experience the magic of music this summer in AlUla with renowned Arab artist Mohamed Abdu performing as part of the 'Jalsat Thanaya' concert series on 23 May. Additionally, prominent Egyptian rock band Cairokee are also performing this summer, which promises to be a spectacular concert on June 8. Both concerts will take place at the stunning Thanaya AlUla outdoor Venue, offering attendees a unique experience that combines music with the beauty of nature. Poolside by AZIMUTH: Escape the heat with a refreshing dip in the stunning pools of AlUla. This summer, poolgoers can experience DJ sets at the luxurious pools at Shaden Resort (4-5 & 11-12 June), Habitas (18-19 & 25-26 June), Banyan Tree (1-2 & 8-9 July) and Dar Tantora The House Hotel (15-16 July). AlUla Desert Blaze: The region's ultimate endurance challenge is back for a third edition this August, perfect for rugged adventurers looking to speed through the city's iconic landmarks. Oasis Summer Farm Discoveries: Guided by a local Rawi, guests will explore the age-old traditions of AlUla Old Town's residents as they moved to their summer farms to escape the heat. Amid historic mudbrick ruins and shaded groves, the journey begins at 5pm, offering visitors a glimpse into how communities once stayed cool and connected to the land. Through storytelling, crafts, and family-friendly activities, this afternoon experience—available during May and June every Saturday—provides a unique blend of education and entertainment set within AlUla's living history. Summer Ice Bath at Our Habitas AlUla: Escape the desert heat with a refreshing twist at luxury resort Our Habitas. On 20th June, guests can dive into a summer ice bath experience designed to rejuvenate the body and awaken the senses amid AlUla's dramatic landscapes. The AlUla Story: A dinner safari and projection experience organised by Platinum Heritage, offering a summer-exclusive, immersive journey through the history and landscapes of Sharaan National Park. The experience features a sunset wilderness drive, a braai barbecue under the stars, a stunning canyon projection show telling AlUla's ancient story, and a serene stargazing session around a bonfire with an expert astronomer. Prices are (SAR 795) per child, and (SAR 995) per adult. Adventure Hub Experiences: Unleash your spirit of adventure this summer during the early morning hours with a range of thrilling activities, all available under special offers amidst AlUla's breathtaking desert landscapes. Experience the AlUla Zipline (SAR 125) — the Kingdom's longest and fastest zipline — as you soar through the stunning mountain scenery. Adventure enthusiasts can also challenge themselves with other exhilarating experiences, including the Giant Swing (SAR 190), AlUla Stairway (SAR 125), Abseiling (SAR 125), Via Ferrata & Canyon Hammock (SAR 125), and Rock Climbing (SAR 90). 'Summer Untold' in AlUla offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, adventure activities, and ample opportunities to relax and rejuvenate, and is easily accessible via direct flights from major regional hubs including Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. The destination aims to showcase its distinctive atmosphere and its commitment to providing visitors with enriching and memorable experiences, rooted in its rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes About AlUla: Located 1,100 km from Riyadh, in North-West Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a place of extraordinary natural and human heritage. The vast area, covering 22,561km², includes a lush oasis valley, towering sandstone mountains and ancient cultural heritage sites dating back thousands of years to when the Lihyan and Nabataean kingdoms reigned. The most well-known and recognised site in AlUla is Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 52-hectare ancient city, Hegra, was the principal southern city of the Nabataean Kingdom and is comprised of 111 well-preserved tombs, many with elaborate facades cut out of the sandstone outcrops. Current research also suggests Hegra was the most southern outpost of the Roman Empire after the Romans conquered the Nabataeans in 106 CE. In addition to Hegra, AlUla is also home to ancient Dadan, the capital of the Dadan and Lihyan Kingdoms and considered to be one of the most developed 1st millennium BCE cities of the Arabian Peninsula, Jabal Ikmah, an open-air library of hundreds of inscriptions and writings in many different languages, which has been recently listed on the UNESCO's memory of the World Register. Also, AlUla Old Town Village, a labyrinth of more than 900 mudbrick homes developed from at least the 12th century, which has been selected as one of the World's Best Tourism Villages in 2022 by the UNWTO.
