Looking to push the boundaries in sustainable architecture, Saudi Arabia has officially opened the first ever earth-built hotel – The Dar Tantora The House Hotel, in AlUla

Now open for bookings, the 30-room boutique hotel is located in the heart of AlUla’s UNESCO-approved Old Town.

The eco-community retreat – developed by Kerten Hospitality and designed in collaboration with Egyptian architect, Shahira Fahmy – is located within a labyrinth of 12th century mud and stone brick buildings which surrounds a 10th-century castle.

Built using the same materials and architectural techniques as AlUla Old Town’s 900 traditional houses, the property is the ultimate conflation of history and luxury.

Rooftop at Dar Tantora The House Hotel1

Occupying the southern end of the AlUla Old Town heritage site, it reimagines several of the surviving homes into multi-level accommodations, offering an unparalleled experience steeped in the rich heritage of this ancient oasis.

Souk at Dar Tantora The House Hotel scaled

The artistic and cultural heritage of AlUla is woven into every inch of fabric of the property. Dar Tantora The House Hotel showcases works by students from AlUla’s Madrasat Addeera, a school dedicated to traditional arts. The hotel features three curated pieces by Creative Dialogue and Gregory Chatonsky, incorporating Sadu, the traditional Bedouin embroidery technique using hand-woven dyed camel hair.

Dar room at Dar Tantora The House Hotel3

Located within walking distance of the Incense Road Market, AlJadidah Arts District, and the Oasis, Dar Tantora The House Hotel is an absolute haven for curious explorers looking to channel their inner Indiana Jones.

To book a stay at this history-making hotel, click here.

Anton Brisinger

Los Angeles native, Anton Brisinger is the lifestyle editor at Esquire Middle East. He really hates it when he asks for 'no tomatoes' and they don't listen. @antonbrisingerr