Saudi presents THE RED SEA – a pioneering luxury tourism destination for the discerning traveller. Designed by award-winning architects, operated by leading hospitality brands, and powered by solar energy, THE RED SEA is a spectacular sanctuary of world-class resorts for those who appreciate indulgent luxury, exclusivity, and unique experiences in a setting of breathtaking beauty.
Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of Asia Pacific Markets at Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), said: “THE RED SEA is crafted luxury at its very best, in a geographically diverse destination unlike any other. With 200km of pristine coastline, the world’s fourth largest barrier reef, mountains vistas, and dormant volcanoes, THE RED SEA is filled with natural wonders, while also offering historical and cultural sites, and the excitement of desert adventures and water sports, all in one destination. THE RED SEA is also at the forefront of regenerative tourism, seeking to go beyond sustainability to make a positive impact on the environment, society, and the economy. In many respects, THE RED SEA is the ultimate destination.”
Located on the west coast, about 500km north of Jeddah and about an 8-hour flight from East Asia, THE RED SEA is a unique range of low-rise luxury resorts on an idyllic archipelago of 90 islands spanning 28,000 square kilometers. THE RED SEA is surrounded by one of the last thriving coral reef ecosystems left on the planet. Its lagoon hosts more than 300 species of coral and is teeming with 280 species of fish.
To better serve the needs of the well-heeled traveller, THE RED SEA has its own dedicated airport. The Red Sea International Airport (RSI) is equipped to have luggage sent directly to the resorts so that visitors are spared the usual airport baggage claim procedures. The domestic terminal opened in September 2023 and handles flights from Riyadh and Jeddah. RSI is on track for full completion in 2025.
Phased Opening of THE RED SEA
Upon completion in 2030, THE RED SEA will have 8,000 rooms in 50 resorts and 1,000 luxury branded residences as well. The first phase of resort openings has begun. When Phase 1 is completed in 2024, 3,000 rooms will be available across 16 resorts:
- 11 resorts on Shura Island (Hub Island), a natural dolphin-shaped hub with a series of lagoons, a marina, an 18-hole championship golf course, and retail and entertainment zones.
- Two resorts on the Ummahat Islands – The 82-key Nujuma, A Ritz Carlton Reserve, and the 90-key St Regis Red Sea Resort (both are already open)
- One resort on Sheybarah Island
- One inland resort at Desert Rock
- One inland resort at Southern Dunes: Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea is already open.
Visitation will be capped at 1 million per year to protect the flora and fauna. Nine islands are designated special conservation zones and only 22 of the 90 islands are being developed to avoid disturbing critical habitats. THE RED SEA is a zero waste to landfill and a zero-carbon footprint destination. Visitors are transported in eco-friendly electric vehicles, boats, and seaplanes. THE RED SEA is also the world’s largest tourism destination powered solely by solar energy and is well on its way to meeting its pledge of increasing marine and terrestrial vegetation cover by 30% by 2040.
An Array of Personalized Experiences
THE RED SEA has exceptional dive sites including a 300-year-old shipwreck. It also offers opportunities for snorkeling and kayaking over coral reefs and around mangrove farms. Inland adventures include hikes through mountains and canyons and bike rides across ancient lava fields. Visitors can also learn to track migratory birds with the help of trained local guides and find out more about the region’s wildlife, which includes Arabian leopards, dugongs, and hawksbills turtles. Cultural and heritage experiences await in AlWajh Old Town. Stargazing is also an option – THE RED SEA aims to become accredited as the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.
Smart Technology at Tour Service
THE RED SEA employs a smart digital destination management system to support seamless personalized products and services. With virtual concierge services, visitors can plan and customize their trips including the scheduling of bespoke activities before they arrive, which can be any time of the year because the mild coastal climate makes THE RED SEA a year-round destination.
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