A Quiet Island in the Red Sea Archipelago
Laheq Island is one of the islands within the Red Sea Global destination on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, an archipelago of more than 90 islands set between Umluj and Al Wajh. The destination was conceived around nature, with large areas of the lagoon and many islands left untouched, and Laheq belongs to that low-density approach. Its setting of pale sand, shallow turquoise water and coral reef has made it part of the picture of a new kind of Saudi holiday.
The wider region adds to the appeal. Mangroves and dunes line parts of the coast, the clear Red Sea teems with reef fish, and the desert interior is never far away, so guests can move between sea and sand with ease. For travellers who know the island chains of the Maldives or the Seychelles, the Red Sea offers a different mood: more desert light, more space and a sense of being among the first to discover a new coast.
Reefs, Sand Bars and Island Time
Days here are made of water. Snorkelling over healthy coral begins at the shoreline, and boat trips visit neighbouring islands, sand bars and dive sites in the lagoon. Kayaks and paddleboards make the shallows easy to explore at dawn, and the clarity of the water is a constant pleasure. Turtles and colourful reef fish are regularly seen in these waters, and the quiet suits guests who want to unwind.
Evenings often turn towards the land. Dune excursions, stargazing and desert dining give the stay a very different second half, and the cuisine blends fresh Red Sea seafood with Saudi flavours such as dates and spiced rice. A hotel group could show Laheq as part of a multi-stop journey, with a base in Jeddah or AlUla either side of the island days.
Read the full Laheq Island guide on Visit Travel Group, or see LaheqIsland.co.uk on Visit Travel Group.