The Saudi developer Red Sea Global (RSG) has become a destination partner of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The partnership recognises the “leading role RSG is playing in driving a paradigm shift from sustainable to regenerative tourism development”.
“This year we are welcoming our first guests to The Red Sea destination. Our partnership with WTTC helps us to open the eyes of the world to the beauty, diversity, and cultural heritage of the Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast,” said Tracy Lanza, Group Head of Global Brand and Marketing at Red Sea Global. “At both The Red Sea and Amaala, we have chosen to go beyond sustainability and seek to make a positive, regenerative impact on the environment and on society. This partnership also allows us to show the industry what we have achieved, to demonstrate that there is a better way to develop and operate, and to encourage others to pursue regenerative tourism for the benefit of people and planet.”
The Red Sea and Amaala destinations are expected to generate 120,000 jobs and receive up to 1.5 million tourists annually, boosting local economies and providing opportunities for sustainable growth. Additionally, the focus on regenerative tourism practices will ensure that the natural beauty and resources of these regions are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Upon full completion in 2030, the destination will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, F&B, and leisure facilities.
WTTC already has close links with KSA, with the organisation’s last annual global summit having being held in Riyadh last December. Furthermore, former WTTC President & CEO Gloria Guevara is now Chief Special Advisor at KSA’s Ministry of Tourism.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, explains that with the addition of Red Sea Global as a valued member, the World Travel & Tourism Council is reinforcing a shared commitment to a more sustainable and regenerative future: “Red Sea Global’s commitment to uplifting communities, driving economies, and preserving our environment aligns seamlessly with the ethos of WTTC. Together, we shall pioneer a path where innovation, responsibility, and prosperity converge, creating destinations that not only inspire but actively enrich the lives of all stakeholders.”
This collaboration allows RSG to exchange knowledge and best practices with an impressive network of industry leaders and experts who share its vision for a more sustainable future in tourism. Other WTTC destination partners include DGDA, NEOM, AlUla, as well as ATOUT France, Brand USA, Visit California, Puerto Rico Tourism Company, Visit Rwanda and TURESPAÑA, among others.
With this partnership, RSG also benefits from WTTC’s annual Economic Impact Research for more than 185 countries and 26 regions around the world. Additionally, RSG will be able to take the lead on strategic WTTC initiatives, namely, Travel & Mobility, Sustainable Future, and Digital Transformation.
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Text by Gerard Lefebvre
