Red Sea Global (RSG), the visionary developer behind The Red Sea and Amaala, two of the world's most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, has entered into a destination partnership with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the global authority on the economic and social impact of travel and tourism.
WTTC is dedicated to promoting sustainable growth within the travel and tourism sector and collaborates closely with governments and international organizations to foster job creation, boost exports, and drive prosperity. In this new alliance, RSG will work in tandem with WTTC to emphasize the potential of responsible travel and regenerative tourism.
Tracy Lanza, Group Head of Global Brand and Marketing at Red Sea Global, expressed the significance of this partnership, stating,
"This year we are welcoming our first guests to The Red Sea destination. Our partnership with WTTC helps us to open the eyes of the world to the beauty, diversity, and cultural heritage of the Saudi Arabian Red Sea coast."
She continued, "At both The Red Sea and Amaala, we have chosen to go beyond sustainability and seek to make a positive, regenerative impact on the environment and on society. This partnership also allows us to show the industry what we have achieved, to demonstrate that there is a better way to develop and operate, and to encourage others to pursue regenerative tourism for the benefit of people and the planet."
This collaboration grants RSG access to a valuable network of industry leaders and experts who share their vision for a more sustainable future in tourism. Among WTTC's destination partners are DGDA, NEOM, AlUla, as well as ATOUT France, Brand USA, Visit California, Puerto Rico Tourism Company, Visit Rwanda, and TURESPAÑA, among others.
Through this partnership, RSG will also gain access to WTTC's annual Economic Impact Research, covering over 185 countries and 26 regions worldwide. Additionally, RSG will be at the forefront of strategic WTTC initiatives, including Travel & Mobility, Sustainable Future, and Digital Transformation.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, affirmed the shared commitment to sustainability, stating,
"With the addition of Red Sea Global as a valued member, the World Travel & Tourism Council is reinforcing our shared commitment to a more sustainable and regenerative future."
She continued,
"Red Sea Global's commitment to uplifting communities, driving economies, and preserving our environment aligns seamlessly with the ethos of WTTC. Together, we shall pioneer a path where innovation, responsibility, and prosperity converge, creating destinations that not only inspire but actively enrich the lives of all stakeholders."
The Red Sea and Amaala destinations are poised to generate 120,000 jobs and welcome up to 1.5 million tourists annually, contributing to local economies and fostering sustainable growth. The focus on regenerative tourism practices will ensure the preservation of the natural beauty and resources of these regions for future generations to enjoy.
RSG recently announced the successful installation of more than 760,000 photovoltaic panels, powering phase one of The Red Sea. The resort's first hotel, Six Senses Southern Dunes, will open in the coming months, with its utilities already being powered by the solar farm. Two more hotels will open by the end of the year, and by early 2025, 16 hotels and Red Sea International Airport will be completed.
Upon full completion in 2030, The Red Sea destination will encompass 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms, along with over 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. Luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, fine dining, and leisure facilities will complement this vibrant destination.
Phase One of Amaala, focusing on the Triple Bay masterplan, is well underway, with the first guests set to be welcomed in early 2025. It will feature eight resorts offering more than 1,200 hotel rooms. Upon completion, Amaala will include over 3,900 hotel rooms across 29 hotels, approximately 1,200 luxury residential villas, apartments, and estate homes, as well as high-end retail, fine dining, wellness, and recreational facilities.
