This small terminal for up to 100 luxury guests, separate from the main airport building, is part of the drive to expand AlUla’s touristic capabilities. The 11-metre-high single-storey structure has a suspended geometry inspired by nearby rock formations: the minimalistic volume with large cantilever stands on a small podium fronted with mirrored security glass. Materials are almost all natural and local, including crushed stone used for the GRC facade panels and to make the roof look as natural as possible from above. The tailor-made reddish colour of the wall cladding echoes the ever-changing rock colours. Inside are a large reception area and extensive lounge including a cigar room and meeting room for VIP guests and business briefings. A courtyard filled with mirrors and natural light will house an artwork in honour of AlUla’s heritage. Airside gives spectacular views of planes landing and departing against a backdrop of monumental rocks.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture
