Tag Archives: Red Sea

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) entered a new, far-reaching and long-term strategic partnership with Red Sea Global (RSG) to develop and expand Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing tourism landscape and boost the Kingdom’s status as one of the world’s most in-demand locations for tourists and investors. Signed at a meeting between Amr AlMadani, the CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla, and John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, the Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) agreement will act as a catalyst for the continued growth and expansion of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, allowing each project to transfer knowledge, expertise, best practices, innovative ideas, and solutions as they drive ahead with their shared goal of meeting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aspirations. As two of the world’s most ambitious tourism projects – located just 350 km apart – the ongoing regeneration of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region has many attributes in common with AlUla, each facing and overcoming a variety of unique challenges as they progress with comprehensive development strategies. The new partnership, which will function on a national and global scale, will fuel the growth of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification allowing each destination to achieve its full potential while benefiting local communities and stakeholders alike. As the core developer of Saudi Arabia’s stunning Red Sea region, RSG is spearheading a new model of regeneration that is helping to reimagine the sustainable luxury tourism industry by merging the vast coastal area’s rich environmental biodiversity and cultural heritage with unrivalled amenities and hospitality services. Now established as a must-visit destination for holidaymakers seeking high-end accommodation and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences within an incredible natural landscape, AlUla is one of the world’s most diverse and immersive …

Red Sea Global (RSG) has released a comprehensive update on construction progress across phase one of The Red Sea destination. This month marks six years since The Red Sea was first announced by His Royal Highness the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman as an international tourist destination as part of the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision. Now, with The Red Sea’s first three hotels and phase one of the international airport on track to open later this year, its latest construction update reveals the remarkable progress achieved across the destination, including at a further 13 hotels and on the supporting infrastructure. “We stand at the brink of an extraordinary moment as we prepare to unveil The Red Sea destination to the world. In six years, we have made exceptional progress, creating exquisite resorts and best-in-class, sustainable infrastructure in a remote location, demonstrating innovation in line with our regenerative approach and commitment to responsible development,” said John Pagano, Group CEO at Red Sea Global. “While the anticipation builds for the opening of our first hotels and the initial phase of our solar powered airport, we are busy working on the rest of phase one. We are ready to deliver countless more extraordinary moments on our journey to positioning Saudi Arabia proudly on the world stage as a must-visit destination,” he added. Desert Rock, a unique mountain resort being built into the rockface, is more than 50 per cent complete overall. RSG has fully excavated and formed the 10 rooms integrated into the mountainside, as well as all 195m of tunnelling. Major structural and infrastructure works are well advanced, including the construction of the wadi villas, guest hubs, back of house, and other …

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind two of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, has announced that its flagship destination, The Red Sea, has been accepted into Virtouso’s ® exclusive portfolio of luxury travel partners, comprising over 2,300 preferred suppliers in 100 countries. Set to welcome its first guests in 2023, The Red Sea will join Virtuoso’s elite network of the world’s finest hotels, resorts, cruise lines, tour operators and other travel entities worldwide. These prestigious partners are recognized for not only delivering world-class services and experiences but also for providing superior offerings and rare opportunities to clientele. “Set among desert canyons, dormant volcanoes and unexplored islands, we are pioneering a unique relationship between luxury tourism and the natural environment at The Red Sea. By committing to putting people and planet first, we are enriching the surrounding environment and giving new meaning to the concept of responsible development. Working with Virtuoso, we’ll showcase the distinct benefits of regenerative tourism, while bringing our unparalleled guest experiences to travelers from all over the world,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. Located on the west coast of Saudi Arabia across 28,000 square kilometers of pristine lands and waters, The Red Sea will be home to a host of prestigious luxury brands, including Ritz Carlton Reserve and Miraval resorts – the first to operate in the Middle East. While staying at some of the world’s most iconic hotels, visitors to The Red Sea can enjoy diverse activities across the full spectrum of retail, sport, entertainment, health and wellness – from desert safaris and spa days to sailing and diving. A key attribute of the new partnership is The Red …

Red Sea Global (RSG), The Red Sea and Amaala, has pledged that its destinations and experiences will be fully inclusive for guests with disabilities, specific needs and access requirements, by implementing an accessibility agenda that is aspirational, alive and responsive, making a real difference to guest experience. The developer has pledged to ensure all guests will enjoy luxury hospitality and unique experiences – from sailing, kayaking and diving among shipwrecks and coral reefs, to exploring the inland environment and stargazing in the desert. The objective is to ensure guests enjoy RSG destinations with equity and dignity through the delivery of spaces, products and services irrespective of physical or cognitive ability. “If we are truly going to do better by people and planet, we can’t leave anyone behind. There are approximately 1.3 billion disabled people globally. It is not only totally inexcusable for our industry to exclude so many people, but commercially short-sighted,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “We pledge to pursue a total commitment to accessible tourism from day one. As a visionary developer, we have the chance to build in accessibility from the ground up, creating exceptional experiences for every visitor to treasure, regardless of their physical or cognitive ability.” To drive this leading commitment to accessible tourism, the developer will now require all its employees, consultants and partners to follow the UN-backed standard, ISO 21902 – Accessible Tourism for All, throughout their work. The standard means every contractor at RSG’s destinations must ensure guest experiences take a universally inclusive approach. This commitment includes using new technologies – such as smart mobility and logistics – to radically enhance luxury tourism experiences for people with disabilities …

Red Sea Global (RSG), Amaala and The Red Sea, announced a partnership with wellness resort operator, Jayasom, to deliver an integrative multigenerational health offering. With a planned total of 153 keys and 24 Branded Residences, Jayasom Wellness Resort, Amaala is situated in Triple Bay and will comprise of a family wellness product alongside an adults-only zone, as well as residences for sale to private owners. The resort experience and all facilities are designed to immerse guests in a journey of personal transformation, with approximately 7,000 square meters dedicated to covering Holistic Health, Fitness, Physiotherapy, Nutrition, Aesthetic Beauty, and Spa. This will be complemented by an extensive conscious cuisine offering across multiple outlets. “Jayasom will offer our guests a holistic sanctuary where they will be surrounded by the stunning natural landscape of the Red Sea coastline. We want visitors to truly appreciate the beauty of this unique destination while focusing on their transformative journey through the world-class wellness facilities on offer. This partnership is yet another exciting step in growing our luxury brand portfolio at Amaala and welcoming our first guests next year,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. An all-encompassing approach to health and wellness will pay careful attention to the needs of each guest, curating stays that draw together Western evidence-based practice, holistic remedies, and local wisdom. Guest journeys will be delivered as retreat experiences by an expert team of highly trained therapists and staff, including medically certified specialists. From tailor-made movement-based programs to build strength and flexibility to minimally invasive beauty procedures using the latest US FDA-approved technology, all programs are supported by nutrition and education on mindful consumption. Innovation will also play a central …

Red Sea Global (RSG) and Amaala, has revealed two new brands, WAMA and Galaxea, set to deliver incredible guest experiences at RSG destinations. Last year the developer rebranded as Red Sea Global, promising the establishment of a series of RSG-owned subsidiary businesses that prioritized stringent sustainability standards while continuing to support the evolution of RSG developments into destinations that will play a critical role in the Saudi tourism sector. WAMA and Galaxea are the first two subsidiary businesses to be announced since then, ahead of The Red Sea welcoming its first guests this year. “Creating experiences is just as important as building hotels, and WAMA and Galaxea are sure to deliver unforgettable adventures for our guests. Whether it’s kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, foiling, kite surfing, sailing, or exploring the Red Sea’s incredible submarine world, WAMA and Galaxea will create extraordinary moments and beautiful memories that last a lifetime,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “What’s more, these brands have been created with sustainability at their core and will continue to build on our ambition to deliver a regenerative approach to tourism development and operations. It is our hope that eventually they will become standalone brands operating at destinations around the world.” In line with this approach, Galaxea is working closely with Saudi Water Sports & Diving Federation, alongside PADI International to ensure that all diving facilities operated by Galaxea lead in regenerative tourism standards and set the blueprint for future diving development around the world. WAMA, named from combining the word ‘water’ in English and Arabic, is responsible for creating invigorating water sport adventures, from Stand-up Paddleboarding through the destination’s mangrove forests, to sailing the Red …

Red Sea Global (RSG), the multi-project developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, The Red Sea and Amaala, has awarded a Primary Infrastructure and Utility Contract valued at nearly SAR one billion. The project will be undertaken by AL-AYUNI Investment and Contracting Company to deliver the first phase of development at Amaala, an ultra-luxury tourism destination located along the Kingdom’s north-western coast, across its Triple Bay masterplan. AL-AYUNI, classified as a “First Class” contractor in the Kingdom since 2006, will be responsible for delivering state-of-the-art Primary Utility Infrastructure Systems, while minimizing Triple Bay’s carbon footprint as part of Amaala’s commitment towards net-zero operations. “Today’s infrastructure deal forms a critical part of Red Sea Global’s ambition to pioneer a new relationship between luxury tourism and the natural environment,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG. “The sheer scale of the developments and our relentless pursuit of regenerative tourism require meaningful partnerships that can deliver resilient infrastructure. Together with AL-AYUNI Investment and Contracting Company, we are confident that we can collectively shape the future of developments in the Kingdom and beyond.” AL-AYUNI was selected based on its overall technical and commercial competencies, as well as regional and global credentials. All design and construction methods meet RSG’s stringent criteria for end-to-end sustainable development, including economic, financial, social, and institutional factors. Faheed Al-Ayuni Chairman of AL-AYUNI Investment and Contracting Company said: “Red Sea Global is a future-forward developer that is closely aligned with our legacy of innovating world-class solutions, cementing trusted relationships, and setting new benchmarks. It is an honor for us to contribute to its pioneering destinations and we look forward to unlocking the full breadth of our robust capabilities to …

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind two of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, has confirmed its flagship destination, The Red Sea, has joined the exclusive Serandipians network of luxury travel and hospitality organizations. Set to welcome its first guests in 2023, The Red Sea is one of the first Saudi tourism destinations in the Kingdom to join Serandipians, and is one of just a small select number of luxury destinations to join the network before officially opening to guests. An industry-leading ecosystem drawing together the best boutique luxury travel agencies and hospitality brands from around the world, Serandipians has specifically selected The Red Sea to join its community on account of the destination’s ambition to deliver outstanding services and best-in-class accommodation in a breathtaking location along Saudi Arabia’s west coast. Combining the natural beauty of rolling sand dunes, untouched islands and abundant coral reefs with first-class luxury guest experiences, The Red Sea is poised to welcome travelers to Saudi Arabia as one of the world’s few remaining unspoilt gems. Our partnership with Serandipians will help us bring regenerative tourism to the world, and demonstrate a new kind of sustainable development that aims to enrich natural capital and benefit the environment in which we operate said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG. An impressive portfolio of 13 internationally renowned hotel brands have already announced they will have a presence at The Red Sea, including Ritz Carlton Reserve and Miraval hotels, the first to operate in the Middle East. In addition to some of the world’s leading luxury hotels, travelers will enjoy a bespoke and unique experience at The Red Sea that caters to every need. Guests have the …

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, THE RED SEA and AMAALA, has announced the appointment of Reem Emirates Saudi to construct the façade and roof shell of the Red Sea International (RSI) airport’s landside facilities. “Red Sea International will set new standards in sustainable aviation, and the ongoing construction works are a critical part of building that legacy. This requires experienced partners who share our vision for doing things better,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of RSG. “Not only is the airport sustainably designed, but aesthetically it takes inspiration from the forms of the surrounding desert, the green oasis and the sea. The roof shell, which Reem Emirates Saudi will deliver, typifies this, with dune-like pods radiating out from the center, providing an arresting welcome as guests first arrive to THE RED SEA from above.” The airport is designed to include shaded areas and natural ventilation that minimizes reliance on air conditioning. It will feature five mini-terminals, which allow areas to be closed during slower activity periods, curbing the need to air-condition all sections and waste energy. At the same time, the entire airport will be run by renewable energy, supporting RSG’s ambition to usher in a carbon-neutral, net-zero era for airport designs and operations. Reem Emirates Saudi will adopt innovative, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly solutions throughout the facade design, structural engineering, manufacturing, and installation, aligned with industry-leading Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certifications. Eng. Naser Al Marzooqi, General Manager at Reem Emirates Saudi, said: “Our partnership with RSG marks the start of an exciting chapter in revolutionizing airport offerings, while closely aligning with the strategic goals of Vision 2030. …

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, The Red Sea and AMAALA, has confirmed daa International as the operator at Red Sea International (RSI), which is on track to become the region’s first-ever carbon-neutral airport. The latest agreement covers operations and general maintenance services worth close to SAR 1 billion and is set to propel the airport on its journey towards environmental sustainability powered by 100 percent renewable energy. “Ahead of welcoming our first guests early next year, Red Sea International is ushering in a carbon-neutral, net-zero era for airport designs and operations. As the region’s first-ever airport powered by 100 percent renewable energy, RSI will serve as an innovative blueprint for decarbonized urban destinations of the future,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of TRSDC. TRSDC welcomed a delegation of Irish dignitaries to its offices in Riyadh to celebrate the signing of the agreement. Minister of State at the Department of Transport in Ireland, Ms Hildegarde Naughton TD, and Ireland’s Ambassador to the Kingdom, Gerry Cunningham were both present, alongside Enterprise Ireland, the country’s trade organization. Additionally, the event was attended by His Excellency the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Mr. Abdul-Azeer bin Abdullah Al-Duailej. “Our agreement with leading industry player daa International, with a proven track-record of excelling in international aviation, marks our latest step towards materializing a sustainable, regenerative gateway that will open this under-explored region of Saudi Arabia to the world,” added Pagano. daa International will serve as the airport operator for RSI in 2023, overseeing design consultancy, management, and operations in accordance with the provisions of General Authority of Civil Aviation of the …