Red Sea Global is poised for significant expansion, revealing plans to launch 12 new mandates that will encompass the entire Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast from north to south. Currently managing two mega-project zones to the north of Umluj, Red Sea Global aims to transform the region into a premier global tourist destination.
The Red Sea Project, one of Red Sea Global’s flagship initiatives, recently opened its first resorts: the Six Senses Southern Dunes and the St. Regis Red Sea Resort. By 2030, the project is expected to feature 50 resorts across 22 islands and six inland sites, offering 8,000 hotel rooms and 1,300 residential properties. These developments highlight the project’s ambitious scope and its potential to significantly boost Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.
In addition to the Red Sea Project, Amaala, another key development located in a rugged coastal section to the north, is set to deliver 1,945 hotel keys and 430 residential units by 2026. By 2030, one island and two coastal locations will be further developed, adding to the region’s allure.
A critical aspect of Red Sea Global’s strategy is the organisation’s commitment to sustainable development. The Red Sea Project aims to set new standards in sustainable tourism, incorporating eco-friendly practices and preserving the region’s natural beauty. The project is designed to operate on 100% renewable energy, with no connection to the national grid. Additionally, it plans to achieve a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040 through various initiatives, including coral reef restoration and the establishment of conservation areas.
During a presentation at the recent Future Hospitality Summit in Riyadh, Ben Edwards, Group Head of Cost, Commercial, and Procurement at Red Sea Global, outlined plans for major further expansion. Some of the new mandates, which remain largely confidential, promise to be of even greater scope than the current projects. Edwards emphasised the group’s dedication to developing world-class, sustainable tourism destinations that respect the environment and local culture.
The Red Sea Project and Amaala are already expected to generate significant economic benefits, including the creation of thousands of jobs and the stimulation of local economies. These projects are also likely to attract a high-end, international clientele, further enhancing Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a global tourism hub.
John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG, is seen by many of his staff as a visionary: “Our mission to develop new destinations as beacons of responsible tourism, showcasing the best in sustainable and regenerative development, gains unprecedented urgency as our planet continues to face challenges in relation to the climate crisis and biodiversity loss,” said Pagano. “Our resorts are representative of positive change, supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and contributing to the conservation and enhancement of the environment.”
He added, “We are truly excited by our accomplishments to date and are confident that our goals for 2024 and beyond will continue to push boundaries and shape the future of regenerative tourism. Together, our dedicated workforce and committed partners are determined to continue driving economic growth, creating job opportunities, protecting and regenerating environments, while delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests at The Red Sea, Amaala, and future destinations.”
The allure of the destinations under development by RSG lies in their untouched landscapes, rich biodiversity, enticing cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality offerings. New experiential brands such as Akun, Galaxea and WAMA are playing a role in unlocking these elements in a sustainable manner to provide truly unique and memorable moments for guests as they explore the unexplored. And as news comes to light in the next months and years of the organisation’s new mandates, RSG’s role in propelling KSA towards and beyond Vision 2030 will become increasingly evident.
