Red Sea Global (RSG) has officially opened Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, located at the centre of The Red Sea destination on Shura Island. Designed by Brian Curley and managed by Golf Saudi, the 18-hole championship course marks a new step in the Kingdom’s sports and tourism development strategy under Vision 2030.
A world-class island golf experience
The par-72, 7,400-yard course was conceived to showcase the natural beauty of the island’s coastal environment while meeting international tournament standards. Eighteen holes wind through native mangroves, sweeping dunes, and shoreline fairways, creating a distinctive links-style course rarely found in the Gulf region.
Curley’s design emphasises minimal environmental interference and a sustainable construction approach consistent with RSG’s regenerative tourism principles. The layout challenges experienced players from the back tees while maintaining accessibility for newcomers, reflecting a “find your ball” philosophy that encourages inclusive play.
“From the onset, Shura Links was designed to blend seamlessly with its natural, brilliant white sand dune surroundings while delivering a one-of-a-kind golf experience,” said Brian Curley, Principal of Curley-Wagner Golf Design. “It’s a course built to challenge seasoned pros from the tournament tees, yet also inviting for those trying golf for the first time.”
A social and leisure hub for Shura Island
At the centre of the development is a beachfront clubhouse, positioned as both the social hub for golfers and a gathering place for resort guests. Inspired by native flora and fauna, the clubhouse features panoramic views of the eighteenth green and the Red Sea beyond. It includes elevated dining options, retail spaces, and relaxation areas designed to extend the golf experience beyond play.
Amenities include:
John Pagano
A family-friendly adventure putting course adjacent to the clubhouse
Expansive grass practice range and fully grassed short-game area
Premium Callaway practice balls and professional-grade equipment
On-site PGA-qualified instruction, with lessons available for individuals, families, and groups
Tailored green fee options for both 9- and 18-hole rounds
A curated retail boutique offering leading golf brands and exclusive Shura Links merchandise
“Shura Links sets a new benchmark for the game of golf in the region,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “It’s more than a course – it’s a place to connect, challenge yourself, and experience the full beauty of The Red Sea. This is another proud milestone in our mission to reshape global tourism through sustainability and design.”
Alignment with Vision 2030 and the PIF mandate
The launch of Shura Links aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives to diversify the national economy through new tourism and sports sectors. The course also reflects the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) growing involvement in large-scale sports infrastructure projects.
“The opening of Shura Links is a landmark achievement in the Kingdom’s pursuit of global leadership in sports and tourism,” said H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Chairman of Golf Saudi. “It reflects the ambitions of Vision 2030 and underscores PIF’s commitment to unlocking new sectors that diversify our economy and elevate quality of life.”
Gateway to The Red Sea destination
Shura Links forms part of the wider Shura Island development, which will eventually host 11 world-class resorts. The first phase, opening in the coming weeks, includes SLS, Edition, and InterContinental hotels. Later additions will include Faena, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah, Miraval, Raffles, and Rosewood.
Shura Island will also feature exclusive residences, with the first units expected for handover by the end of 2025. Homeowners and guests will have access to the island’s recreational amenities, beaches, and the broader Red Sea network of marine, desert, and cultural experiences.
Accessibility and connectivity
Access to Shura Island is via Red Sea International Airport (RSI), strategically located within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours for 85% of the world’s population. RSI already handles scheduled domestic and international flights. From next month, Qatar Airways will operate three weekly direct services to RSI, with additional routes expected to follow.
Building Saudi Arabia’s golf tourism portfolio
Through the creation of Shura Links, Golf Saudi and RSG are expanding Saudi Arabia’s appeal to high-end golf travellers, positioning the Kingdom as a new entry in the international golf tourism circuit.
“Through our partnership with Red Sea Global, we reaffirm our commitment to building an integrated investment environment that positions Saudi Arabia as a premier destination where natural beauty, innovation, and sustainability converge,” said Noah Alireza, CEO of Golf Saudi. “Shura Links is not only a showcase of this vision but also a foundational touchpoint in creating the Kingdom’s golf tourism trail.”
Market implications
For high-end travel advisors, Shura Links adds a new dimension to luxury leisure offerings on Saudi Arabia’s west coast. The combination of an exclusive island location, high-end resort infrastructure, and sustainable credentials positions the course as a strong addition to golf-inclusive itineraries and incentive travel programmes.
As Shura Island’s resort openings continue into early 2026, the integration of world-class accommodation, private residences, and destination experiences will establish The Red Sea as one of the most comprehensive luxury tourism developments in the region.
