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Kerten Hospitality is excited to announce the inauguration of Dar Tantora The House Hotel in the historic Old Town of AlUla. Scheduled to open its doors on January 21st, 2024, and conveniently located 35 km from AlUla International Airport, this distinctive hotel serves as a gateway to the rich historical and artistic wonders nestled in the heart of AlUla’s Old Town.

Constructed using ancient materials and architectural techniques reminiscent of the restored mud brick buildings in the region, Dar Tantora The House Hotel promises an immersive experience into the captivating heritage of AlUla. Named after the traditional sundial, “tantora,” historically used as a timekeeper by the local community, the hotel symbolizes a profound connection to the area’s cultural legacy. It pays homage to timeless traditions and agricultural practices that have shaped the region, echoing the Tantora’s role as a guide for farmers through the seasons.

Marloes Knippenberg, CEO of Kerten Hospitality, emphasizes that Dar Tantora The House Hotel goes beyond being a mere accommodation—it’s an invitation to explore AlUla’s vibrant history and embrace its enduring culture and heritage. She notes that this project is a pivotal part of Kerten Hospitality’s global expansion, underscoring the commitment to offer unique, culturally-rich experiences in diverse destinations worldwide.

Waleed Al Dayel, Chief Strategy and Digital Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, highlights the hotel’s alignment with the vision of sustainable regeneration for AlUla Old Town. Dar Tantora The House Hotel stands as a tribute to innovative hospitality firmly rooted in AlUla’s past.

With a community-centric vision, the hotel aims to be AlUla’s premier low-impact establishment, fostering deep connections between guests and locals without disrupting the cultural tapestry and natural heritage. Sustainability is at the core of the hotel’s design, reflecting Kerten Hospitality’s ESG philosophy, UBBU (‘United. Building a Better Universe’), with a focus on locality and environmental responsibility.

Dar Tantora The House Hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends to energy-saving initiatives, automated food waste management, and water conservation. The property is set to be a flagship for Kerten’s sustainable hospitality strategy, preserving AlUla’s ancient aesthetic and building techniques.

In collaboration with The Royal Commission of AlUla, the hotel will embark on an art project, engaging local artists to complement AlUla’s distinct artistic heritage. Guests can partake in daily cultural activities led by local artisans, offering an opportunity to engage in the traditions and crafts of the region.

The 30-room hotel will also provide bespoke cultural experiences, including daily activities like fresh bread making and Saudi coffee sessions, as well as weekly and monthly traditions led by local artisans. Dar Tantora The House Hotel offers an infinity pool with exclusive oasis views, spa treatments using locally grown ingredients, and culinary experiences curated by Michelin-starred Chef Jaume Puigdengolas.

Kerten Hospitality’s expansion into key markets reflects its commitment to blending luxury with cultural and environmental consciousness. The group’s growth strategy mirrors its dedication to creating spaces that transcend being mere accommodations—they are places to live and experience the richness of each unique destination.

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