As Saudi Arabia embarks on a path of modernization and prosperity, outlined in its Vision 2030 blueprint, the arrival of EDITION Hotels in Jeddah represents a testament to the country’s commitment to transformation. The Jeddah EDITION, scheduled to open on May 2, 2024, is not merely the first of its kind in the region; it ushers in a pioneering concept that aligns with the Kingdom’s aspirations for change. This significant milestone mirrors Saudi Arabia’s drive for economic and social diversification, embodying its promise to empower citizens and stimulate development.
Jeddah, renowned as the gateway to Mecca and a bustling hub of commerce and culture, embodies the spirit of ‘Jeddah Ghair’ – a city that embraces diversity and innovation. Against this backdrop, EDITION’s arrival signals a new chapter. As global perceptions of Saudi Arabia evolve, The Jeddah EDITION becomes a beacon of the Kingdom’s journey towards a progressive future. With its multicultural ethos and forward-thinking approach, this addition to the EDITION family redefines hospitality in the region, heralding an era of advancement and prosperity.
The unveiling of The Jeddah EDITION is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Marriott International, EDITION Hotels, and Yabu Pushelberg, guided by the visionary leadership of Sela and its Managing Director, Dr. Rakan Al Harthi. This partnership harmoniously blends Jeddah’s vibrant culture and traditions with the brand’s sophistication and boundary-pushing spirit. The result is a unique amalgamation of Eastern essence and Western innovation, creating an unparalleled hospitality experience.
Josh Fluhr, EDITION’s Senior Vice President and Global Managing Director, remarks, ‘In this transformative time in the country’s rich history, we’re thrilled to further expand the EDITION brand in Saudi Arabia. Through our inspired partnership with Dr. Rakan Al Harthi and his team, we’re bringing EDITION’s unique concept to Jeddah, which is destined to redefine the luxury standard in the Kingdom.’
The Jeddah EDITION epitomizes Saudi Arabia’s captivating journey of transformation, where refined elegance, style, and a new era of luxurious tranquility converge. Positioned along the Jeddah Corniche, a picturesque 30-kilometer coastal stretch on the Red Sea, this urban resort is ideally located steps away from the vibrant Jeddah Art Promenade and within a short drive from iconic destinations such as Al-Balad, a UNESCO Heritage site, and The Red Sea Mall. Situated atop a thrilling corner of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix Circuit, adjacent to the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina, the hotel resides in a sleek low-rise structure designed to evoke the sleek lines of a superyacht. As dusk descends, the Marina transforms into a lively hub, providing locals and visitors alike with an inviting space for waterfront dining and shopping.
Nestled amidst verdant gardens adorned with towering palm trees, the property unfolds like a four-story masterpiece, creatively curated by EDITION. Designed in collaboration with the renowned international design studio Yabu Pushelberg, the hotel remains true to the EDITION brand’s hallmark of refined simplicity and style. Boasting 52 rooms and 11 suites, including two Penthouses, the property features a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, spa, gymnasium, two lounges, and a signature restaurant offering meticulously crafted culinary experiences by acclaimed New York chef, Cédric Vongerichten.
True to EDITION’s ethos, the lobby serves as the vibrant heart of the hotel, welcoming guests with the brand’s signature scent and an open-flow concept. Beneath soaring ceilings embellished with a captivating acrylic sphere installation by artist Vincent Leroy, the lobby exudes warmth and sophistication. The reception area showcases elegant furnishings, including upholstered wingback chairs, a Persian rug, and bespoke lighting, creating an intimate and welcoming ambiance.
Adjacent to the lobby, the light-filled Lobby Lounge seamlessly transitions from one inviting space to the next. Adorned with artwork by New York City-based artist John Jackson and curated furnishings, the lounge offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Lobby Bar exudes elegance with its black-and-white photography series, custom furnishings, and inviting ambiance, making it the perfect spot to unwind and socialize.
Maritime, the hotel’s signature contemporary French-Asian restaurant, helmed by renowned chef Cédric Vongerichten, offers a culinary journey inspired by his global experiences and culinary expertise. With its breathtaking vistas and exquisite menu, Maritime promises to become a culinary destination in its own right, embodying the spirit of culinary exploration and innovation.
‘Maritime is inspired by my passion for Asian flavors, cultivated during my years in Bangkok, combined with my love for French cooking techniques. I’ve curated a menu that reflects diverse cultures, showcasing the aromatic spices of the region alongside the finest local ingredients,’ explains chef Cédric Vongerichten.
Operational from dawn till dusk, Maritime offers meticulously crafted dishes designed for sharing, where spices take center stage, harmonizing Asian and Arabian influences to create depth, flavor, and aroma. Delight in culinary creations such as local shrimp dumplings paired with lemongrass beurre blanc and caviar, complemented by innovative non-alcoholic beverages such as the Saffron Spritz, featuring ginger honey and fresh saffron to tantalize your palate.
Housing two private dining rooms and an open show kitchen, Maritime’s design mirrors the cultural richness of its culinary offerings. With curved light plum velvet banquettes, walnut dining tables, and Thonet chairs with natural caning, the interior exudes elegance. Rich accents such as distressed glass mirrors, potted banana leaf plants, and a prized Iranian silk Persian rug beneath the communal dining table complete the vibrant ambiance. Overlooking the Red Sea, the restaurant’s terrace, adorned with potted plants and century-old olive trees, provides a tranquil setting for unhurried lunches, sunset drinks, and romantic dinners.
Venture down the oak-paneled corridor to The Den, a secluded haven for cigar enthusiasts. This intimate, softly lit lounge features custom tufted teal blue velvet banquettes and plush brown armchairs, adorned with whimsical photographs by artist Christian Vieler, adding a touch of charm to the space. Savor bespoke coffees and non-alcoholic beverages like The Den Sour, accompanied by light bites from chef Cédric Vongerichten, followed by a hand-rolled cigar on the private terrace under the stars, providing a blissful escape for cigar aficionados.
Nestled between the third and fourth floors, the 52 rooms and 11 suites offer the ultimate urban sanctuary. Each room showcases EDITION’s signature design approach, with travertine bathrooms seamlessly transitioning into luminous, white oak spaces and terraces offering captivating views of the Red Sea or the F1 track. The accommodations exude muted luxury, featuring travertine flooring, black-and-white photographs of historic Jeddah, and custom furnishings such as inset leather headboards, complemented by freestanding bathtubs and EDITION’s signature Le Labo toiletries, creating a serene retreat.
The Penthouse and Royal Penthouse elevate the experience to unparalleled heights of indulgence. Spread over 240 square meters, the two-bedroom Penthouse boasts a spacious living area, an exquisite dining space, and a lushly landscaped wrap-around terrace overlooking the Red Sea, Jeddah Yacht Club, and Formula 1 racetrack. The Royal Penthouse, a spectacular 600-square-meter duplex, offers private elevator access, expansive living areas, and a landscaped terrace with breathtaking panoramas of the Red Sea and the Floating Mosque. Both Penthouses feature elegant interiors in neutral tones, adorned with curated artwork and furnishings by Christophe Delcourt and Christian Liaigre, creating a residential feel.
On the fourth floor, The Roof offers a Mediterranean beach club-inspired sanctuary, featuring private lounges set against panoramic vistas of the vibrant Marina, Jeddah Yacht Club, and F1 track. Indulge in wood-fired dishes and refreshing beverages poolside, surrounded by lush greenery and serene views. The fourth floor also houses a state-of-the-art gymnasium and The Spa, offering a tranquil space for rejuvenation with treatments utilizing Natura Bissé products from Barcelona.
As Saudi Arabia embraces a progressive future, The Jeddah EDITION stands as a unique destination, supporting Vision 2030 and showcasing the vibrancy of one of the country’s most dynamic cities.