Photo: Ämr Ezzeldinn
Not all who wander are lost, and for those walking along the Red Sea’s endless stretches of sea and sand, the joy is in the detours. Nestled among Saudi Arabia’s well-trodden paths and oft-spotlighted favorites, the region full of captivating landscapes is a true invitation to escape, albeit an underappreciated, opulent one. Ripe for exploration under year-round sunshine are a vibrant marine life, expansive shores, and secluded, sparkling turquoise waters. Serene, luxurious retreats give way to some exhilarating adventures – just steps away are ample thrills and discovery, from diving to natural phenomenon such as whale migration. The figures are striking: over 300 coral species, 800 dive sites, 1 800km coastline, more than 150 beaches, 1200 islands, and an equal number of fish species. Plus world-class yachting at the Jeddah Yacht Club, which provided an exclusive setting for this Vogue Arabia shoot that saw supermodel Candice Swanepoel sample some of the Red Sea’s ocean of delights.
Dress, Alter Designs. Photo: Ämr Ezzeldinn
Dress, Waad Aloqaili; necklace, bracelets, Jude Benhalim.Photo: Ämr Ezzeldinn.
“I’ve had the privilege of shooting in oceans and seas across the world, but the warmth of the Saudi Red Sea made the entire diving and swimming experience uniquely enjoyable,” Swanepoel says. “I’ve always been drawn to water, both in my personal life and work life, and felt most connected when I get to lose myself in it. It’s a comfort that is rarely felt in any other element, and makes the Saudi Red Sea feel like a wonder. There is endless, untapped beauty to the region that I’ve been very privileged to witness and experience.”
Taking in the Red Sea region’s unparalleled luxury, culture, adventure, and hospitality, the model set sail on a superyacht, went on a colorful underwater adventure, and joined a lively coral-inspired party, across a two-day shoot that soaked up some dazzling beauty. As the sun set on a horizon indistinguishable between sun and sea, a region full of untouched landscapes was bathed in a surreal golden glow. The end of a day, but the beginning of a brand-new chapter for the region.
Custom dress, Waad Aloqaili. Photo: Ämr Ezzeldinn
Custom dress, Waad Aloqaili. Photo: Ämr Ezzeldinn
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