Red Sea Global makes strides to protect Saudi Arabia's ecosystem with largest ever biodiversity study - Middle East Business News and Information
Riyadh, DATE – Red Sea Global, the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has today published the findings of one of the most comprehensive and integrative terrestrial baseline survey ever undertaken by a development company, establishing a new standard for conservation-led development in the tourism industry and announcing several discoveries.
The report, 'Terrestrial Spatial Habitats Assessment for Biodiversity Conservation,' published on XXX 2025 and conducted in partnership with the Biodiversity and Genetic Resources Research Center (BIOPOLIS/CIBIO) from the University of Porto in Portugal, covered more than 120 terrestrial sites, including over 13,000km² of deserts, volcanic fields, wetlands, mangroves, and mountain ecosystems.
During the fieldwork, Red Sea Global's team identified several species potentially new to science, meaning they have been identified as distinct and previously unrecorded by scientists. Among the species discovered in the fieldwork were one scorpion ( Trypanothacus sp. ), two geckos ( Hemidactylus sp. and Tropiocolotes sp. ), and a small mammal ( Gerbillus sp. ). A scientific finding of this scale is highly significant, especially as biological knowledge of this region has been historically limited. Furthermore, with the discovery of these potential new species, Red Sea Global's terrestrial team has demonstrated the ecological uniqueness and conservation value of deserts and arid environments, which are often perceived as low in biodiversity but, in reality, host specialized and highly adapted fauna.
'This survey marks yet another important step in our continued efforts to protect and enhance the region's landscape and wildlife,' said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. 'We now know exactly where these habitats are, what species they support, and what steps we need to take to protect them. By embedding this kind of scientific research into planning, we're showing that luxury tourism and environmental preservation are not only compatible, but they can also be brought together to deliver long-term benefits for both the environment and our visitors.'
In addition to the potentially newly discovered species, the report also identified 11 local Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), which are defined as specific sites recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for their significant contribution to the persistence of biodiversity, either globally, regionally or locally. These local KBAs were newly identified through this baseline survey, using the IUCN's methodology, and they support a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, including locally threatened species and geographically restricted species and species only found in the Arabian Peninsula.
Informing Responsible Development:
The wider findings of the survey form an ecological baseline that will guide Red Sea Global's land-use, restoration, and conservation strategies, as well as inform development decisions as destinations continue to progress. The fieldwork also supports RSG's commitment to achieving a 30% net conservation gain by 2040, which means that by that year, the region will feature more or better-quality habitats than before development began.
Protecting Regionally Significant Fauna and Flora:
The survey also highlights the ecological significance of the Red Sea zone, the combined terrestrial area encompassing The Red Sea and AMAALA. It documented: 41 locally threatened species, including the Arabian Woodpecker, classed locally as critically endangered and found in the Red Sea mountains: the endangered Nubian Ibex, facing habitat loss, as well as the vulnerable Egyptian Slit-faced Bat and Bonelli's Eagle.
88 locally geographically restricted species, including several species potentially new to science, such as Hemidactylus sp. and Gerbillus sp. highlighting how little was known about this landscape.
and highlighting how little was known about this landscape. 19 species only found in the Arabian Peninsula, adding to the region's unique biodiversity, such as the Arabian Sunbird, the Hejaz black-collared snake, and Scott's Ground Beetle.
18 species displaying local demographic aggregations within the zone, meaning their populations in the area rely on specific sites for breeding, feeding or shelter.
Among the 11 local KBAs identified are: Al-Wajh Bank (2,835 km²): A globally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA) that plays a crucial role in supporting populations of the Sooty Falcon and other marine birds like the Crab Plover and the Sooty Gull. It is also a major stopover for many globally and locally threatened migratory species.
Upper Wadi Al Hamd (976 km²): Recognized as an important area for several species, such as the Arabian Wolf. Identifying this KBA gives conservationists better insights into how the species is surviving and highlights the need for habitat restoration. Additionally, as the Arabian Wolf faces ongoing threats from persecution and hunting, the KBA designation also opens the door to working more closely with local communities inhabiting the area to encourage coexistence and shift prevailing perceptions.
In total, these KBAs provide habitat for 136 species of local conservation concern. This number represents 24% of the diversity identified in the Red Sea zone, highlighting the importance of these areas for ongoing conservation efforts within the area. As a result of this fieldwork, which transformed the level of knowledge available, filling critical gaps in the scientific record, the species and habitats identified will now be better protected.
A foundation for regenerative tourism:
This work highlights RSG's commitment to regenerative tourism, which not only focuses on sustainability but also actively contributes to the restoration and enhancement of destinations, rather than just reducing negative impacts. Additionally, it builds on RSG's 2022 Environmental Baseline Survey, which examined the populations and habitats of species along the Red Sea coastline.
The findings also support Saudi Arabia's national environmental goals under the Saudi Green Initiative and align with global biodiversity targets under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.
Overview of the 11 Red Sea KBAs: Al-Wajh Bank (2,835 km²): A globally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA), this archipelago and coastal region is a vital breeding ground and migratory stopover for seabirds. Retaining 45% as 'Last of the Wild' – areas minimally impacted by human activity – underscores its importance as a refuge for 3 flora and 21 fauna species of local conservation concern. Harrat Lunayyir (1,211 km²): Defined by its volcanic landscapes, the area supports a variety of desert-adapted species and important bat roosts. With 45% of its area classified as 'Last of the Wild', it serves as a haven for 7 flora and 19 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Hippocrepis constricta, Bonelli's Eagle, and the Fan-tailed Raven. Jabal Saykhaan (1,643 km²): Encompassing mountainous terrain and wadis, this area is home to 16 flora and 16 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Anisosciadium lanatum, Arabian Woodpecker, and Peregrine Falcon. Upper Wadi Alhamd (976 km²): Centered around a significant wadi system, this area supports a diverse range of species due to the presence of critical water resources in an arid environment. With a 33% 'Last of the Wild' status, it provides refuge for 1 flora and 9 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Morettia parviflora, Arabian Woodpecker, Arabian Wolf and Nubian Ibex. Wadi Khuff (38 km²): Notable for a series of small freshwater springs inside a mountain canyon which provides a critical water source for local fauna, the area supports 10 fauna species of local conservation concern, including Hemprich's Desert Bat and Short-toed Snake-eagle. Wadi Al Hamd (383 km²): Encompassing a wadi system and significant wetland areas, this area supports a variety of wetland-dependent species and migratory birds. 53% of the area remains as 'Last of the Wild,' providing refuge for 7 flora and 16 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Monsonia heliotropioides, Arabian Woodpecker, Eurasian Spoonbill and Killifish. Jabal Qawwam (772 km²): Characterized by mountainous terrain and a permanent dam that serves as a critical water source, the area supports 7 flora and 13 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Salvia deserti, Geoffroy's Myotis, Pharaoh Eagle-owl, Arabian Serin, Desert Tawny Owl, Mount Elba snake-eyed lizard, and Oman toad. Jabal Ral and Northern Areas (1,163 km²): Comprising a diverse landscape of mountains, wadis, and plains, this area supports a variety of plant and animal life, including threatened and endemic species. It is home to 14 flora and 25 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Salvia deserti, Peregrine Falcon and Bonelli's Eagle. Triple Bay Mountains (692 km²): With mountainous terrain and ephemeral streams, this area provides habitat for a variety of mountain-adapted species and important bat roosts. With 26% classified as 'Last of the Wild,' it supports 12 flora and 22 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Cleome droserifolia, Arabian pupfish, Bonelli's Eagle and Common Moorhen. Amaala Coastal Mangroves (35 km²): A marine/terrestrial KBA encompassing coastal mangrove ecosystems, it is a critical habitat for a variety of marine and terrestrial species, including globally and/or locally threatened species. The area supports 4 flora and 7 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant species Cadaba farinosa, Indigofera coerulea, Atriplex farinosa and Mesembryanthemum cryptanthum , and Purple Heron and Crab Plover.
and , and Purple Heron and Crab Plover. Amaala Northern Mountains (1,086 km²): With 21% classified as 'Last of the Wild,' this area supports a variety of mountain-adapted species, including 13 flora and 13 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Cleome droserifolia, Geoffroy's Myotis, Egyptian Slit-faced Bat, Pharaoh Eagle-owl, Short-toed Snake-eagle, and Desert Tawny Owl.
About Red Sea Global:
Red Sea Global (RSG – http://www.redseaglobal.com ) is a vertically integrated real estate developer with a diverse portfolio across tourism, residential, experiences, infrastructure, transport, healthcare, and services. This includes the luxury regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea, which began welcoming guests in 2023, and AMAALA, which remains on track to welcome first guests in 2025.
A third destination, Thuwal Private Retreat, opened in 2024. RSG has also been entrusted with refurbishment works at Al Wajh Airport, focused on upgrading the existing terminal and infrastructure, and building a new international terminal.
RSG is a PIF company and a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's ambition to diversify its economy. Across its growing portfolio of destinations, subsidiaries, and businesses, RSG seeks to lead the world towards a more sustainable future, showing how responsible development can uplift communities, drive economies, and enhance the environment.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mid East Info
06-07-2025
- Mid East Info
Red Sea Global makes strides to protect Saudi Arabia's ecosystem with largest ever biodiversity study - Middle East Business News and Information
Terrestrial baseline survey identifies several species potentially new to science and 11 new local Key Biodiversity Areas across The Red Sea and AMAALA Riyadh, DATE – Red Sea Global, the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has today published the findings of one of the most comprehensive and integrative terrestrial baseline survey ever undertaken by a development company, establishing a new standard for conservation-led development in the tourism industry and announcing several discoveries. The report, 'Terrestrial Spatial Habitats Assessment for Biodiversity Conservation,' published on XXX 2025 and conducted in partnership with the Biodiversity and Genetic Resources Research Center (BIOPOLIS/CIBIO) from the University of Porto in Portugal, covered more than 120 terrestrial sites, including over 13,000km² of deserts, volcanic fields, wetlands, mangroves, and mountain ecosystems. During the fieldwork, Red Sea Global's team identified several species potentially new to science, meaning they have been identified as distinct and previously unrecorded by scientists. Among the species discovered in the fieldwork were one scorpion ( Trypanothacus sp. ), two geckos ( Hemidactylus sp. and Tropiocolotes sp. ), and a small mammal ( Gerbillus sp. ). A scientific finding of this scale is highly significant, especially as biological knowledge of this region has been historically limited. Furthermore, with the discovery of these potential new species, Red Sea Global's terrestrial team has demonstrated the ecological uniqueness and conservation value of deserts and arid environments, which are often perceived as low in biodiversity but, in reality, host specialized and highly adapted fauna. 'This survey marks yet another important step in our continued efforts to protect and enhance the region's landscape and wildlife,' said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. 'We now know exactly where these habitats are, what species they support, and what steps we need to take to protect them. By embedding this kind of scientific research into planning, we're showing that luxury tourism and environmental preservation are not only compatible, but they can also be brought together to deliver long-term benefits for both the environment and our visitors.' In addition to the potentially newly discovered species, the report also identified 11 local Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), which are defined as specific sites recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for their significant contribution to the persistence of biodiversity, either globally, regionally or locally. These local KBAs were newly identified through this baseline survey, using the IUCN's methodology, and they support a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, including locally threatened species and geographically restricted species and species only found in the Arabian Peninsula. Informing Responsible Development: The wider findings of the survey form an ecological baseline that will guide Red Sea Global's land-use, restoration, and conservation strategies, as well as inform development decisions as destinations continue to progress. The fieldwork also supports RSG's commitment to achieving a 30% net conservation gain by 2040, which means that by that year, the region will feature more or better-quality habitats than before development began. Protecting Regionally Significant Fauna and Flora: The survey also highlights the ecological significance of the Red Sea zone, the combined terrestrial area encompassing The Red Sea and AMAALA. It documented: 41 locally threatened species, including the Arabian Woodpecker, classed locally as critically endangered and found in the Red Sea mountains: the endangered Nubian Ibex, facing habitat loss, as well as the vulnerable Egyptian Slit-faced Bat and Bonelli's Eagle. 88 locally geographically restricted species, including several species potentially new to science, such as Hemidactylus sp. and Gerbillus sp. highlighting how little was known about this landscape. and highlighting how little was known about this landscape. 19 species only found in the Arabian Peninsula, adding to the region's unique biodiversity, such as the Arabian Sunbird, the Hejaz black-collared snake, and Scott's Ground Beetle. 18 species displaying local demographic aggregations within the zone, meaning their populations in the area rely on specific sites for breeding, feeding or shelter. Among the 11 local KBAs identified are: Al-Wajh Bank (2,835 km²): A globally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA) that plays a crucial role in supporting populations of the Sooty Falcon and other marine birds like the Crab Plover and the Sooty Gull. It is also a major stopover for many globally and locally threatened migratory species. Upper Wadi Al Hamd (976 km²): Recognized as an important area for several species, such as the Arabian Wolf. Identifying this KBA gives conservationists better insights into how the species is surviving and highlights the need for habitat restoration. Additionally, as the Arabian Wolf faces ongoing threats from persecution and hunting, the KBA designation also opens the door to working more closely with local communities inhabiting the area to encourage coexistence and shift prevailing perceptions. In total, these KBAs provide habitat for 136 species of local conservation concern. This number represents 24% of the diversity identified in the Red Sea zone, highlighting the importance of these areas for ongoing conservation efforts within the area. As a result of this fieldwork, which transformed the level of knowledge available, filling critical gaps in the scientific record, the species and habitats identified will now be better protected. A foundation for regenerative tourism: This work highlights RSG's commitment to regenerative tourism, which not only focuses on sustainability but also actively contributes to the restoration and enhancement of destinations, rather than just reducing negative impacts. Additionally, it builds on RSG's 2022 Environmental Baseline Survey, which examined the populations and habitats of species along the Red Sea coastline. The findings also support Saudi Arabia's national environmental goals under the Saudi Green Initiative and align with global biodiversity targets under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. Overview of the 11 Red Sea KBAs: Al-Wajh Bank (2,835 km²): A globally recognized Important Bird Area (IBA), this archipelago and coastal region is a vital breeding ground and migratory stopover for seabirds. Retaining 45% as 'Last of the Wild' – areas minimally impacted by human activity – underscores its importance as a refuge for 3 flora and 21 fauna species of local conservation concern. Harrat Lunayyir (1,211 km²): Defined by its volcanic landscapes, the area supports a variety of desert-adapted species and important bat roosts. With 45% of its area classified as 'Last of the Wild', it serves as a haven for 7 flora and 19 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Hippocrepis constricta, Bonelli's Eagle, and the Fan-tailed Raven. Jabal Saykhaan (1,643 km²): Encompassing mountainous terrain and wadis, this area is home to 16 flora and 16 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Anisosciadium lanatum, Arabian Woodpecker, and Peregrine Falcon. Upper Wadi Alhamd (976 km²): Centered around a significant wadi system, this area supports a diverse range of species due to the presence of critical water resources in an arid environment. With a 33% 'Last of the Wild' status, it provides refuge for 1 flora and 9 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Morettia parviflora, Arabian Woodpecker, Arabian Wolf and Nubian Ibex. Wadi Khuff (38 km²): Notable for a series of small freshwater springs inside a mountain canyon which provides a critical water source for local fauna, the area supports 10 fauna species of local conservation concern, including Hemprich's Desert Bat and Short-toed Snake-eagle. Wadi Al Hamd (383 km²): Encompassing a wadi system and significant wetland areas, this area supports a variety of wetland-dependent species and migratory birds. 53% of the area remains as 'Last of the Wild,' providing refuge for 7 flora and 16 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Monsonia heliotropioides, Arabian Woodpecker, Eurasian Spoonbill and Killifish. Jabal Qawwam (772 km²): Characterized by mountainous terrain and a permanent dam that serves as a critical water source, the area supports 7 flora and 13 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Salvia deserti, Geoffroy's Myotis, Pharaoh Eagle-owl, Arabian Serin, Desert Tawny Owl, Mount Elba snake-eyed lizard, and Oman toad. Jabal Ral and Northern Areas (1,163 km²): Comprising a diverse landscape of mountains, wadis, and plains, this area supports a variety of plant and animal life, including threatened and endemic species. It is home to 14 flora and 25 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Salvia deserti, Peregrine Falcon and Bonelli's Eagle. Triple Bay Mountains (692 km²): With mountainous terrain and ephemeral streams, this area provides habitat for a variety of mountain-adapted species and important bat roosts. With 26% classified as 'Last of the Wild,' it supports 12 flora and 22 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Cleome droserifolia, Arabian pupfish, Bonelli's Eagle and Common Moorhen. Amaala Coastal Mangroves (35 km²): A marine/terrestrial KBA encompassing coastal mangrove ecosystems, it is a critical habitat for a variety of marine and terrestrial species, including globally and/or locally threatened species. The area supports 4 flora and 7 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant species Cadaba farinosa, Indigofera coerulea, Atriplex farinosa and Mesembryanthemum cryptanthum , and Purple Heron and Crab Plover. and , and Purple Heron and Crab Plover. Amaala Northern Mountains (1,086 km²): With 21% classified as 'Last of the Wild,' this area supports a variety of mountain-adapted species, including 13 flora and 13 fauna species of local conservation concern, including the plant Cleome droserifolia, Geoffroy's Myotis, Egyptian Slit-faced Bat, Pharaoh Eagle-owl, Short-toed Snake-eagle, and Desert Tawny Owl. About Red Sea Global: Red Sea Global (RSG – ) is a vertically integrated real estate developer with a diverse portfolio across tourism, residential, experiences, infrastructure, transport, healthcare, and services. This includes the luxury regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea, which began welcoming guests in 2023, and AMAALA, which remains on track to welcome first guests in 2025. A third destination, Thuwal Private Retreat, opened in 2024. RSG has also been entrusted with refurbishment works at Al Wajh Airport, focused on upgrading the existing terminal and infrastructure, and building a new international terminal. RSG is a PIF company and a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's ambition to diversify its economy. Across its growing portfolio of destinations, subsidiaries, and businesses, RSG seeks to lead the world towards a more sustainable future, showing how responsible development can uplift communities, drive economies, and enhance the environment.
CairoScene
28-04-2025
- CairoScene
Red Sea's Largest Coral Colony Discovered Off Amaala Coast
The ancient colossal coral stands as the largest documented coral colony of its type in the Red Sea. A colossal coral colony estimated to be between 400 and 800 years old has been discovered in the Red Sea within the waters of Amaala in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, according to Red Sea Global (RSG). The coral, identified as part of the Pavona species, measures between 26 and 36 metres in length and 21 metres in width, rivaling the size of the current world record holder located in the Pacific. It stands as the largest documented coral colony of its type in the Red Sea. The find is expected to become a major attraction for diving tourists visiting Amaala, with access carefully managed to minimize environmental impact. Researchers have described the coral as a "time capsule" that could offer critical insights into past oceanographic transformations and help model responses to future environmental changes. Based on its size, photogrammetry, and growth rate comparisons with Pacific species, the coral's estimated age could predate the world's current largest known coral in the Solomon Islands, which is believed to be between 300 and 500 years old. If confirmed, the coral would have begun its growth during historic periods such as Genghis Khan's conquests, the rise of early Islamic states in Southeast Asia, and the signing of the Treaty of Paris. Protecting such giant coral colonies has been deemed crucial for safeguarding reefs in the Red Sea and potentially across the globe. Researchers from RSG and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) are conducting further studies to more precisely determine the coral's age and to examine its resilience to environmental stressors.
Mid East Info
27-04-2025
- Mid East Info
A 800-year lost treasure: ancient living coral giant discovered in the Red Sea breaks records
Scientists stunned by monumental find of colossal coral at new tourism destination AMAALA, which could rewrite marine history and offer new and unique diving experiences Riyadh,April 2025 – Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, today announce the significant discovery of a giant coral colony in the Red Sea (the 'Pavona' species) within the waters of AMAALA on the northwestern coast of Saudi Arabia. Rivalling the size of the current world record holder ( a 32 x 34-meter colony found in the Pacific ), this remarkable new find in the Red Sea stretched to the length of six to eight London buses end to end (26-36 x 21 meters). It is the largest coral colony of this type documented in the Red Sea to date. This natural wonder could become a key highlight for tourists at AMAALA on diving excursions, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Access would be permitted in line with RSG's responsible ethos, minimizing any potential impact, while allowing tourists to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Red Sea's underwater world. 'The discovery of a coral of such extraordinary dimensions demonstrates the ecological significance as well as the pristine beauty of the Red Sea,' said Ahmed Alansari, RSG's Head of Environmental Protection and Regeneration. 'At RSG, we believe it is critically important to protect our coral reefs. In particular, these giants represent a time capsule of information, providing the ideal tools for tracing past oceanographic transformations that can help us model responses to future environmental changes. Understanding how this coral has survived for so long will be crucial for protecting other reefs in the Red Sea and potentially all over the world, for generations to come.' Coral from the time of Genghis Khan: Determining the age of these giant corals with minimal impact is challenging due to the invasive nature of accurate techniques and an absence of published growth rates for this particular species of coral in the Red Sea. However, estimations have been made based on the coral's size, growth rates of this species found in the Pacific, and results from photogrammetry efforts (RSG has stitched 3,000 images together to create a 3D model that is precisely scaled). Using these tools, the coral cluster is estimated to be between 400 and 800 years old, which may be even older than the world's largest coral recently discovered in the Solomons at 300-500 years old. If the upper estimate holds true, this coral began growing around the time when Genghis Khan invaded China, the earliest Islamic states in Southeast Asia were formed and the Treaty of Paris was signed ending The First Hundred Years' War. Upcoming studies by researchers from RSG and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) will help pinpoint the coral's age more accurately and provide insights into the environmental conditions in which it has thrived. Like stumbling across a white rhino in the wild: Coral in the Red Sea is known for being particularly resilient, having undergone a long process of natural section, adapting genetically to the naturally warmer waters and higher salinity levels. This colony will be subject to ongoing monitoring and research to understand what makes these giants so resilient to multiple stressors over long time periods and help inform conservation efforts for other reefs in the Red Sea and around the world. The two RSG scientists who discovered the giant coral colony, Rhonda Suka and Sylvia Jagerroos, are now leading its mapping and documentation. Ms. Suka said: 'Finding such an invaluable specimen was a truly mind-boggling experience. This colony's resilience gives us hope for the continued success of corals in the Red Sea, particularly in the face of increasing environmental and anthropogenic stress.' Ms. Jagerroos said: 'A coral this massive is incredibly rare — like stumbling upon a northern white rhino in the wild. You know they exist somewhere, but actually finding one is almost unheard of.' Mapping these giants is an important part of conserving them, something the 'Map the Giants' project is doing on a global scale by identifying and documenting these vital giant coral structures, which it classes as anything larger than five meters. This is the second colony RSG has submitted to the project in the last few months. AMAALA is set to welcome its first guests later this year with the ambitious goal of becoming the world's most comprehensive health and wellness destination. Launching with more than 1,400 hotel rooms across eight luxury resorts, it will welcome some of the most renowned wellness operators globally, offering a wide array of programs tailored to diverse lifestyles and well-being needs. This follows RSG's other destination, The Red Sea, which began welcoming guests in 2023 and now has five hotels open. About Red Sea Global: Red Sea Global (RSG – ) is a vertically integrated real estate developer with a diverse portfolio across tourism, residential, experiences, infrastructure, transport, healthcare, and services. This includes the luxury regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea, which began welcoming guests in 2023, and AMAALA, which remains on track to welcome first guests in 2025. A third destination, Thuwal Private Retreat opened in 2024. RSG has also been entrusted with refurbishment works at Al Wajh Airport, focused on upgrading the existing terminal and infrastructure, and building a new international terminal. RSG is a PIF company and a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's ambition to diversify its economy. Across its growing portfolio of destinations, subsidiaries, and businesses, RSG seeks to lead the world towards a more sustainable future, showing how responsible development can uplift communities, drive economies, and enhance the environment. About AMAALA: AMAALA is an unparalleled ultra-luxury wellness destination along the northwestern coast of the Red Sea in Saudi Arabia. Considered a premiere destination, with one of the world's most pristine environments, AMAALA is sustainably developed by Red Sea Global (RSG) and focuses on coastal lifestyle with regeneration and wellness at its core. AMAALA's first phase, situated at Triple Bay, is set to welcome guests in 2025, with the ambitious goal of becoming the world's most comprehensive health and wellness destination. Launching with more than 1,400 hotel rooms across eight luxury resorts, it will welcome some of the most renowned wellness operators globally, offering a wide array of programs tailored to diverse lifestyles and well-being needs. Upon completion, the destination will have 30 hotels, 4,000 keys, 1,200 villas, apartments, and homes spread across its unique landscape complemented by high-end retail and fine dining experiences. Two of AMAALA's hallmark features include Corallium Marine Life Institute — an educational and scientific research center—and the AMAALA Yacht Club, destined to become an international hub for luxury yachting.
