Red Sea Project is a transformative luxury tourism initiative on Saudi Arabia’s western coast, aiming to establish a sustainable and regenerative destination that harmoniously blends opulence with environmental preservation.
Overview
Situated between the cities of Umluj and Al-Wajh, the Red Sea Project spans approximately 28,000 square kilometres (10,800 square miles), encompassing a diverse array of islands, beaches, deserts, mountains, and volcanic areas. This ambitious development is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, designed to diversify the nation’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil revenues.
Development Phases
The project is structured in multiple phases:
Phase One: Scheduled for completion in 2023, this initial phase includes the development of 16 hotels offering 3,000 rooms across five islands and two inland resorts. Additionally, essential infrastructure such as a new international airport and various leisure facilities are part of this phase.
Final Phase: By 2030, the project aims to feature 50 hotels with 8,000 rooms and approximately 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites.
Sustainability and Environmental Commitment
A defining aspect of the Red Sea Project is its dedication to environmental sustainability and regenerative tourism. The development is committed to a 100% reliance on renewable energy, with no connection to the national grid. This includes the construction of the world’s largest battery storage facility to ensure a constant power supply. Moreover, the project plans to implement a zero-waste-to-landfill policy, a total ban on single-use plastics, and a commitment to achieving carbon neutrality.
To safeguard the area’s rich biodiversity, only 22 of the 90 islands will be developed, leaving the remaining islands untouched to serve as conservation areas. This approach aims to enhance the ecosystem and promote sustainable development.
Architectural Highlights
The Red Sea Project showcases innovative and eco-friendly architectural designs:
Shurayrah Island: Dubbed the “Coral Bloom,” this island features designs by Foster + Partners that seamlessly integrate with the natural environment, emphasizing the preservation of mangroves and other native flora.
Desert Rock Resort: This unique resort is carved into the mountains, offering guests immersive experiences within the rock formations while minimizing environmental impact.
Economic Impact
The Red Sea Project is anticipated to make a significant economic contribution by creating approximately 70,000 jobs and adding around $5.8 billion annually to Saudi Arabia’s GDP upon completion.
Current Progress
As of 2025, substantial progress has been made:
The new international airport has commenced operations, facilitating access to the destination.
Several hotels and resorts have opened their doors to guests, with more under construction.
Infrastructure developments, including roads and utilities, are nearing completion to support the growing number of visitors.
Conclusion
The Red Sea Project epitomizes Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating a world-class luxury tourism destination that prioritizes environmental sustainability and economic diversification. By integrating cutting-edge technology, innovative design, and a strong emphasis on conservation, the project aims to set new standards in regenerative tourism and offer unparalleled experiences to visitors from around the globe.
