TMS. In what way is RSG contributing to the development of a fresh sustainable tourism sector in Saudi Arabia and what are the observable effects on the environment?
Reema Al-Mokhtar. The global luxury travel market is going through a period of exciting transition, marked by a significant shift in travelers’ mindsets towards sustainable and eco-conscious tourism. At Red Sea Global, we are proud to be leading the charge in regenerative tourism, going one step further than sustainability, by positively contributing to the local community, economy, and the environment.
Throughout The Red Sea and AMAALA, we aim to achieve a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040, which we hope to achieve in part through expanding critical habitats that enable biodiversity to flourish. We are already on track to meet this goal with one million native mangrove seedlings already planted and being nurtured in The Red Sea, not to mention our landscape nursery, the largest in the region which has already grown more than 5 million plants, shrubs and trees.
We’ve built 5 solar farms comprising 760,000 PV panels and completed one of the world’s largest off-grid battery storage facility to ensure the destination is powered by sunlight even when the sun goes down. We aim to be powered entirely by renewable solar energy once fully operational.
We are also building a scientific research center called Corallium, which is located in Triple Bay, AMAALA. This endeavor is pivotal to our broader environmental aspirations for the Red Sea coastline, while also educating and inspiring visitors to our destination. Local Saudi residents are instrumental to the development of the destination, and we have already launched several programs that offer extensive training in conservation roles including the upskilling of 60 local farmers in mangrove nurseries, and a Marine Operation Jobs program, which has seen 40 maritime industry professionals hired from the local community. Tamala, a cooperative established by Red Sea Global, has brought together over 3,000 local farms, championing sustainable farming practices while transforming the agricultural economy of the Tabuk region.
TMS. In How does Red Sea Global prioritize the conservation of marine and aquatic wildlife species throughout the project?
Reema Al-Mokhtar. The Red Sea encompasses an archipelago of 90 islands, but only 22 will be developed, leaving 75 percent untouched and nine as designated special conservation zones.
We are lucky enough to be located on the world’s fourth largest coral reef system and its diverse marine ecosystem, sheltering over 30 rare and endangered species, such as humphead wrasse, dugongs, dolphins, rays, tiger and whale sharks, green and hawksbill turtles. We have already carried out numerous pilot projects where scientists have tracked species endemic to the region, including the critically endangered Halavi guitarfish and Hawksbill sea turtle, through acoustic tagging and mapping of turtle nesting sites. This formed part of our first wildlife survey, which is by far the largest effort ever undertaken by a private development company to understand and assess a natural ecosystem ahead of and during development.
TMS. What are the target segments and marketing strategies Red Sea Global plans to emphasize on particularly for the Indian market?
Reema Al-Mokhtar. Our offerings cater to a wide array of travelers – whether you’re looking for some quality time with your family, looking for a solo adventure, a couple on a romantic getaway, or just friends in search of unforgettable experiences – we have something for everyone! Our strategy is focused on attracting a diverse range of traveler groups from India. We have been taking part in educational roadshows and travel exhibitions, networking events, and doing extensive media outreach to raise awareness of what we can offer travelers from India.
Our participation at SATTE 2024 was highly successful, and we were so pleased to receive such positive feedback. During the event, we engaged key stakeholders in the Indian market and shared insights on topics that are shaping the travel industry, including wellness, sustainability, and areas of technological advancement, in which we are seen as pioneers. We have been buoyed by the success of the show and what is to come in the months ahead.
TMS. How does RSG plan to engage with the Indian market?
Reema Al-Mokhtar. India holds significant importance for us and we are so grateful for how the Indian people have shown an interest in our growth and development. There is a growing demand among affluent Indians for luxury travel experiences, and we are pleased to offer unmatched opportunities for luxury, adventure, sports, and relaxation experiences, while placing regeneration and sustainability at the heart of everything we do. Geographically, we benefit from being such close neighbours too!
We are actively collaborating with our Indian partners and local experts to showcase our innovative destination and capture the interest of the Indian audience. We have already received very positive feedback from our in-market activations and we look forward to doing even more in India.
TMS. Can you provide insights into the collaborations with prominent hospitality and wellness brands like Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Clinique La Prairie, and Jayasom?
Reema Al-Mokhtar. We are thrilled to be working with leading hospitality and wellness brands, which will bring their renowned service and expertise to our ambitious The initial phase of AMAALA, currently in progress and set to welcome first guests in 2025, will include Rosewood AMAALA, Jayasom Wellness Resort, AMAALA, Six Senses AMAALA, Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA and Clinique La Prairie Health Resort.
The latest luxury hospitality brand to be announced, Four Seasons Resort and Residences AMAALA at Triple Bay will feature 220 keys comprising of rooms and suites, as well as villas with their own private pools, and 26 branded residential villas, designed by acclaimed architects U+A. The property will also boast a luxurious spa surrounded by a serene garden with a sculptured waterfall, offering therapeutic treatments such as halotherapy and cryotherapy. Rosewood AMAALA will offer 25 residences alongside 110 guest rooms and suites, designed by renowned architecture firm ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. The property’s design aims to prioritize longevity and wellness, and convey an environment of tranquillity.
Located in Triple Bay, the Jayasom Wellness Resort, AMAALA, will feature a planned total of 153 keys, including an adults-only area, family wellness facilities, and private residences for sale. With 7,000 square meters dedicated to Holistic Health, Fitness, Physiotherapy, Nutrition, Aesthetic Beauty, and Spa.
The luxurious Clinique La Prairie Health Resort in AMAALA spans 36,115 square meters, offering 66 rooms and suites along with 13 villas. Equipped with a diagnostics lab, museum, beach club, workshop and training rooms, private dining area, and a cooking school, guests will be spoilt for choice. Six Senses AMAALA will feature 64 rooms, six suites, 30 villas, and 25 branded residences designed by architects U+A, and its interiors by Studio Carter. The design is inspired by the region’s traditional coastal villages and utilizes locally sourced materials. Located on one of the most dramatic landforms along AMAALA’s Triple Bay area, the resort offers panoramic views across the Hijaz Cove to the Red Sea. The meandering streets and paths that crisscross the site lead to enchanting plazas with glimpses of the Pura Cove and its iridescent blue lagoons.
TMS. How does The Red Sea destination aim to engage various sectors such as leisure, hospitality, culture, and economy in its efforts to promote the expansive tourist destination globally?
Reema Al-Mokhtar. Everything that our guests will experience in the destination pays homage to the Red Sea’s extraordinary landscape, from our 18-hole championship golf course, luxury marina, beach clubs, entertainment options, and top-tier facilities. Our exquisite dining venues and luxury boutiques showcase the best global cuisines, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Guests will have a plethora of water activities to choose from, such as sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. We offer unparalleled scuba diving and snorkeling excursions within our thriving marine ecosystem. Visitors are able to explore the Red Sea’s stunning natural landscapes through various active pursuits including hiking, free-running, climbing, nature walks, and other immersive experiences. For those intrigued by culture and heritage, we are committed to supporting our local community in sharing their stories, craftsmanship, produce, and landscapes with guests through art installations, archaeology and history trails, farmers markets, culinary experiences, and astrological pursuits, among other offerings.
