Durrat Al Nakheel

درة النخيل

A picturesque coastal resort area featuring white-sand beaches and luxury developments along the Red Sea. It is a prime destination for beach relaxation, water sports, and enjoying Saudi Arabia's marine beauty.

Things to do

• Red Sea Snorkeling — Explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish species in the shallow, clear waters just offshore from the resort beaches.
• Jet Skiing & Water Sports — Rent jet skis, paddleboards, and other water equipment available at the resort's water sports centers along the main beach.
• Beach Relaxation & Sunset Viewing — Lounge on pristine white-sand beaches and watch the sun set over the Red Sea from designated shoreline areas throughout the resort.
• Diving Expeditions — Book guided scuba diving trips to nearby reefs and underwater sites that showcase Saudi Arabia's rich marine biodiversity.
• Marina Walks & Yacht Viewing — Stroll through the marina area to admire luxury yachts and sailboats docked at the resort's upscale facilities.
• Photography at Lagoon Areas — Capture scenic photos of the turquoise lagoons and landscaped resort grounds that provide picturesque backdrops.

Food to try

• Grilled Hamoor (Sea Grouper) — Fresh Red Sea grouper caught daily and grilled with lemon, garlic, and traditional Gulf spices, served at beachfront restaurants.
• Shrimp Machboos — A fragrant rice dish cooked with Gulf shrimp, cardamom, and baharat spice blend, representing classic Saudi Arabian coastal cuisine.
• Samak Kabab (Fish Kebab) — Seasoned fish fillet skewered and grilled over charcoal, often served with tahini sauce and fresh bread at resort dining venues.
• Seafood Mezze Platter — A selection of hummus, baba ganoush, grilled octopus, and calamari appetizers served alongside fresh pita bread.
• Al Kabsa with Seafood — The traditional Saudi spiced rice dish prepared with mixed seafood instead of meat, offering a coastal variation of this beloved staple.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Code on Beaches — While Durrat Al Nakheel is more liberal than inland Saudi areas, women should wear modest swimwear or cover-ups away from private resort beaches, and men should avoid shirtless walking in public areas.
• Prayer Times & Facilities — The resort provides prayer rooms and respects the five daily prayer times; plan activities accordingly and expect brief closures during Salah times.
• Alcohol Restrictions — Saudi Arabia prohibits alcohol; beverages at resort facilities are non-alcoholic, and visitors should not attempt to bring or consume alcohol.
• Friday & Ramadan Considerations — Fridays are important prayer days with reduced business hours, and during Ramadan, dining hours shift to evening; plan meals and activities with these cultural observances in mind.