Cruise Saudi has announced the development of a private island in the Red Sea. This exclusive destination, set to welcome cruise-ship passengers by December 2024, promises to be a one-of-a-kind attraction, blending luxury with authentic Saudi heritage.
The cruise company is owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and tasked with developing Saudi Arabia’s cruise tourism sector.
The project, in collaboration with PC Marine Services, was revealed during a special ceremony held at Cruise Saudi’s headquarters in Jeddah. This strategic initiative is a key component of Cruise Saudi’s vision to boost the Kingdom’s cruise sector, directly supporting the broader goals of Vision 2030, which aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and increase the contribution of tourism to the national GDP.
Cruise Saudi executive director of commercial and business development Mashhoor Baeshen says the project will significantly enhance the maritime tourism sector in the Kingdom, with the island poised to become a standout attraction for visitors exploring the Red Sea.
A jewel in the Red Sea
Located in the stunning Red Sea, the private island will serve as the first exclusive cruise destination of its kind in Saudi Arabia, setting a new standard for maritime tourism in the region. The Red Sea, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity, has long been considered a hidden gem for travellers seeking extraordinary natural beauty. The development of this island will elevate the Red Sea’s reputation as a global hotspot for luxury tourism and unique coastal experiences.
The island is designed to reflect the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage, combining modern luxury with traditional Saudi elements. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in a variety of recreational activities, both on land and in the water, making it a truly unique stop on their cruise journeys.
Private island to offer a broad array of services
The private island will be equipped with an array of premium facilities designed to cater to the diverse needs of cruise passengers. These include a welcoming centre, a dining area offering a selection of local and international cuisine, a beach club, sunbathing spots, and private villas for those seeking seclusion and privacy. The initial phase of development, scheduled to be completed by the end of this year, will allow the island to host up to 2,000 guests, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience for visitors.
PC Marine Services president and chief executive Adnan Alshareef explained that the new island initiative will present a valuable opportunity in contributing to the advancement of the Kingdom’s maritime infrastructure, fostering growth within the maritime tourism sector in alignment with the goals of Vision 2030.
In line with Cruise Saudi’s commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, the island’s development will take into consideration the protection of its surrounding marine environment. By integrating eco-friendly practices, Cruise Saudi aims to preserve the natural beauty of the Red Sea while delivering world-class experiences to its visitors.
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast: a rising star in global tourism
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast is rapidly emerging as a key player in global tourism, thanks to a series of ambitious projects that highlight its unique appeal. The Red Sea is home to some of the world’s most unspoilt marine environments, with hundreds of coral reefs, thousands of islands, and an incredible diversity of marine life. This makes it an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts, snorkelers, and those simply seeking the tranquility of a pristine beach.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has increasingly focused on unlocking the potential of the Red Sea as part of its Vision 2030 tourism strategy. With projects like the Red Sea Global development, which is set to offer ultra-luxury resorts and sustainable tourism options, and now the development of Cruise Saudi’s private island, the region is fast becoming a destination of choice for high-end travellers.
Cruise Saudi’s role in the Kingdom’s tourism boom
As a company at the forefront of developing Saudi Arabia’s cruise tourism infrastructure, Cruise Saudi has made significant strides since its establishment. With ambitions to position the Kingdom as a premier cruising hub, the company is working closely with international cruise lines to create bespoke itineraries that showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and modern attractions.
Cruise Saudi’s new private island will serve as a key highlight on these itineraries, offering a luxury stopover in the heart of the Red Sea. It will also complement the broader development of Saudi Arabia’s port infrastructure, including the improvement of cruise berths in major cities like Jeddah, Yanbu, and Dammam.
With PC Marine Services’ track record of successful projects, including the Obhur Waterfront Development and the Cruise Berth Improvements across multiple Saudi ports, the partnership is expected to deliver an island that meets the highest international standards of luxury and sustainability.
Saudi Red Sea Coast set to welcome 19-million by 2030
The recent development of Cruise Saudi’s exclusive private island is just one of many initiatives positioning the Red Sea as a key player in the Kingdom’s ambitious tourism strategy.
In line with these efforts, the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, has released a report titled “Invest in Coastal Tourism,” highlighting the critical role coastal tourism will play in achieving the goals of Vision 2030. The report emphasises the potential of the Red Sea to attract 19 million tourists by 2030, driving significant economic growth and transforming the region into a major international destination.
The SRSA’s vision aligns closely with Cruise Saudi’s ambitions. Both are focused on building a thriving tourism industry that showcases the unparalleled beauty of the Red Sea while offering diverse, luxury experiences. According to the SRSA report, the coastal tourism sector is expected to contribute approximately SAR85 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2030, create over 210,000 jobs, and capture 30% of the Kingdom’s leisure tourism market.
Crucially, the SRSA’s report highlights the importance of protecting the Red Sea’s unique marine ecosystem, ensuring that the rapid development of coastal infrastructure is sustainable and environmentally responsible. This commitment to sustainability, along with the creation of world-class destinations, aims to make the Red Sea a compelling destination for tourists from around the globe, while supporting Vision 2030’s goal of diversifying the economy.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in maritime tourism and coastal development, the Red Sea is on track to become a hub for luxury tourism, water sports, and adventure travel. With Cruise Saudi’s private island set to open in late 2024 and SRSA’s continued efforts to attract investment and enhance infrastructure, the Red Sea is destined to become a key pillar in Saudi Arabia’s future as a global tourism powerhouse.
…
Photos courtesy of SPA
…
Read also: Cruise Saudi’s Voyage to Regional Prominence
