Shebara
Sheybarah Island, Saudi Arabia
Shebara occupies Sheybarah Island in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea, where contemporary architecture creates an unusual dialogue with the marine landscape. Its polished stainless-steel overwater villas take rounded forms above the lagoon, reflecting the changing light and colour around them. Beach villas provide an alternative connection to the island, with the shore immediately beyond their outdoor spaces. The resort's accommodation is arranged across 73 villas, combining private pools with interiors that continue the curved geometry of the architecture. Terraces extend living space towards the sea, giving swimming, dining and quiet observation an equal place in the day. The contrast between the buildings' precise forms and the surrounding reef is a defining feature, especially when seen from the water. Restaurants, a spa and experiences centred on the Red Sea broaden the stay beyond the villa. Snorkelling and diving offer opportunities to engage with the underwater environment, while the island itself encourages a slower pace between meals and the pool. Shebara is particularly compelling for travellers interested in architecture as part of a destination, with its setting and distinctive design remaining closely interdependent throughout the experience.