Shebara Resort, located on Sheybarah Island in the Red Sea Archipelago, is one of the flagship projects within Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Global development. Designed by Killa Design, the 73-key eco-resort balances high-end hospitality with environmental responsibility. The entire island operates off-grid, powered by renewable energy and managed through circular resource systems that minimise waste and maximise efficiency.
Architecture and site integration
The resort’s design philosophy is rooted in minimising ecological disturbance. All structures were prefabricated off-site, transported by sea, and assembled with minimal foundation work to protect the island’s fragile ecosystem. The architecture features a series of stainless-steel orbs used for the overwater and beach villas. Their mirrored surfaces reflect the surrounding sky and sea, visually reducing the presence of the built form within the landscape. Each orb contains a highly insulated structure that minimises heat gain and reduces energy consumption.
Energy and water systems
Shebara operates entirely on renewable power generated from a 5 MW solar array located on a nearby service island, supported by battery storage systems that ensure a continuous power supply. Smart microgrid controls monitor and optimise energy use across all villas and facilities. Desalination systems produce fresh water from seawater using solar power, while greywater is treated and recycled for irrigation. All wastewater passes through a biological treatment system, ensuring zero discharge into the marine environment.
Materials and construction
Material selection was guided by durability, recyclability, and reduced embodied carbon. The mirror-polished stainless steel used for the villas was selected for its corrosion resistance in marine environments. Timber used for interior finishes and decking is FSC-certified, while structural components were optimised for lightweight assembly. The modular off-site fabrication approach reduced construction emissions and disruption to the island.
Biodiversity and regeneration
The project integrates with Red Sea Global’s Marine Spatial Planning programme, which protects coral reefs and seagrass meadows. Artificial reef modules made from low-carbon concrete have been deployed to enhance marine habitats. Night lighting is shielded and minimised to protect nesting turtles and nocturnal wildlife. Native vegetation has been reintroduced through a zero-irrigation landscape strategy to support the regeneration of coastal ecosystems. Performance monitoring supports net-zero operation for both carbon and water.
