On Saudi Arabia’s stunning western coastline, a visionary regenerative tourism project is unfolding, spearheaded by Red Sea Global. This initiative aims to create three luxurious tourism developments that prioritize renewable energy, social accountability, and scientifically-informed conservation of the region’s delicate ecosystems.
The journey has already begun with the opening of the Thuwal Private Retreat, an exclusive buyout island featuring five luxurious accommodations. Located just an hour’s drive from Jeddah, this retreat exemplifies the fusion of luxury and sustainability. The broader Red Sea project encompasses a breathtaking archipelago of 90 pristine islands, of which only five are currently under development. The initiative boasts four islands already welcoming guests, including the opulent St. Regis Resort, Ritz Carlton Reserve, and Shebara, the first luxury resort entirely owned and operated by Red Sea Global. November 2023 marked the opening of the Six Senses Southern Dunes Resort, further enriching the destination’s offerings.
Looking ahead, CEO John Pagano describes what he calls “the main event” set to begin next year, which involves the construction of 11 additional resorts along the Red Sea. The AMAALA destination, positioned on the northern edge of the coastline, will feature a cluster of eight more luxurious resorts.
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Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
Pagano reflects on the project’s duality, stating, “We described it as one of the last hidden gems in the world, but it came with a huge responsibility. How do we develop in a manner that not only protects but seeks to enhance this destination?” To this end, Red Sea Global has engaged scientific partners to conduct comprehensive studies of the area’s biodiversity, meticulously mapping out the entire destination and assigning conservation values to each segment. The ambitious goal is to increase the net conservation value by 30% over the next several decades.
A significant focus of this initiative is the preservation of the fourth-largest barrier reef system globally, which includes establishing a coral regeneration facility that employs micro-fragmentation techniques to mimic the natural coral spawning environment. Additionally, recognizing the vital role that plants play in safeguarding island landscapes against rising sea levels and erosion, Red Sea Global aims to plant 50 million mangroves by 2030. In a promising start, one million mangroves were planted last year, with plans for two million this year.
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Currently, 50% of all resort operations are powered by renewable energy sources, including a UV charging network that utilizes renewable energy. Water for the resorts is generated through advanced reverse osmosis technology. The environmental initiative aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to five million tons annually across the Red Sea and AMAALA destinations once the projects reach full completion. Pagano emphasizes that the project is “inspired by nature, led by science,” envisioning “the largest tourism destination in the world, powered 100% by sunshine” every day of the year.
Guests at these luxury resorts can engage in activities that further support the regeneration of the local ecosystem, including responsible diving to protect coral reefs, eco-friendly water sports, and land adventures such as hiking trails and ziplines.
Community Engagement and Economic Empowerment
Red Sea Global places a strong emphasis on investing in the local community, with 30-40% of all hires sourced from surrounding areas. Community investment extends to vocational training and scholarships aimed at equipping young Saudis with skills in International Hospitality Management at a prominent university in Medina. These initiatives are designed to create pathways for employment directly with Red Sea Global or its partner hotels. Pagano asserts, “You can’t develop sustainably and in a regenerative way if you don’t bring your local community.”
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Aligning with the Saudi Green Initiative
Saudi Arabia has set forth ambitious environmental targets through its green initiative. Pagano notes, “Our values and mission were to put Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map, but also do it in a manner that made it the most regenerative destination in the world,” highlighting the shift away from oil reliance toward prioritizing sustainable, long-term industries. “They want to be what fossil fuels were to the world, but with green hydrogen,” emphasizing the nation’s commitment to deriving 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
Pagano observes that consumers, especially younger generations, are increasingly willing to pay a premium for sustainable tourism options. “There aren’t many of those options available in the world, and we’re creating that option.” The expansive project is expected to culminate in 50 hotels at Red Sea and an additional 30 at AMAALA by 2030.
