Annabel’s AlUla

In 2021, inspired by the iconic Rainforest Gala at Annabel’s London from 2019, myself and my colleagues sought to bring this special vision to Saudi Arabia by transforming the historic Islamic fort at Hegra — a UNESCO World Heritage site — into a lush, immersive rainforest dining experience.

At the heart of the open-air fort, a six-metre sculptural tree towered majestically, intricately adorned with lifelike flying parrots and gilded monkeys, creating a captivating fusion of art and nature.

The experience extended to a series of exclusive private dining rooms, each meticulously themed around distinctive flora and fauna — from the sleek elegance of the leopard to the vibrant plumage of the macaw, from the delicate orchid to the mysterious serpent, and from the exotic birds-of-paradise to the striking heliconia.

Guests were treated to a signature set menu, featuring dishes that balanced elegance and indulgence: Chilean Sea bass, Wagyu beef fillet, tuna tartare, and the classic, decadent Annabel’s chocolate cake, offering a culinary experience as extraordinary as the surroundings.

Producing this event during the peak stage of the global pandemic presented both unprecedented challenges and exciting opportunities. With special permission from the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), we were able to create the pop-up and open exclusively to local Saudi residents, ensuring a safe yet immersive experience that showcased creativity, innovation, and resilience in extraordinary circumstances.