Shura Island Opens Its Doors: Red Sea Global Debuts First Resorts and Attractions
The-Red-Sea-EDITION-offers-240-elegantly-designed-rooms

SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental hotels, along with Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, mark the first phase of a world-leading regenerative tourism destination.

Red Sea Global (RSG), the visionary developer behind Saudi Arabia’s regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, is set to welcome guests to the first resorts and attractions on Shura Island in the coming weeks.

Phase one of the island’s launch includes the debut of SLS The Red Sea, The Red Sea EDITION, and InterContinental The Red Sea Resort, alongside Shura Links, the Kingdom’s first island golf course. This milestone underscores RSG’s commitment to Vision 2030, driving economic diversification while showcasing the potential of regenerative tourism.

“As the heart of The Red Sea, Shura Island embodies Red Sea Global’s mission: bold ambition, deep respect for nature, and a reimagining of tourism in Saudi Arabia and beyond,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “The soft opening brings us closer to setting new global standards in regenerative tourism while realizing Vision 2030.”

SLS-The-Red-Sea-features-150-luxurious-rooms-and-villas
SLS-The-Red-Sea-features-150-luxurious-rooms-and-villas

Eventually, Shura Island will host 11 world-class resorts, offering guests unparalleled access to pristine natural landscapes, luxurious amenities, signature experiences, and curated cultural programming. Guests can arrive via boat to the island’s marina or by electric vehicle across the 3.3 km Shura crossing, which includes Saudi Arabia’s longest internal bridge, immersing them in turquoise lagoons, untouched beaches, and elevated hospitality.

Red Sea International Airport (RSI) serves as the gateway, within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours for 85% of the world’s population. Qatar Airways will operate direct flights three times a week starting next month, with additional routes forthcoming.

Shura-Links-Clubhouse
Shura-Links-Clubhouse

First Resorts Opening:

  • SLS Red Sea: 150 rooms and villas, including beachfront and overwater options, with curated cultural, wellness, and leisure experiences.
  • The Red Sea EDITION: 240 rooms and 53 suites, world-class spa, multiple dining venues, and access to watersports and golf.
  • InterContinental The Red Sea Resort: 178 rooms and 32 suites, five dining venues, spa, event spaces, all inspired by surrounding coral reefs.

The remaining eight resorts, including Faena, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah, Miraval, Raffles, and Rosewood, will open over the coming months.

Shura Island’s Coral Bloom design, by Foster + Partners, draws inspiration from surrounding coral reefs and integrates seamlessly with its pristine environment. Entirely powered by renewable energy, the island balances luxury with sustainability. Exclusive residences are also being introduced, with first handovers scheduled for the end of 2025.

Shura Links, opening this September, promises a world-class golfing experience, blending natural desert landscapes with lush fairways, sustainable water management, and eco-friendly practices. Accessible to all resort guests and residents, it sets a new standard for leisure in Saudi Arabia.

InterContinental-The-Red-Sea-Resort
InterContinental-The-Red-Sea-Resort

Beyond tourism, RSG is creating 120,000 jobs and driving economic growth, demonstrating the broader social and environmental impact of its transformative developments.

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At a Glance:

  • Phase One Launch: SLS, EDITION, InterContinental, Shura Links golf course
  • Total Resorts Planned: 11 world-class properties
  • Key Features: Turquoise lagoons, pristine beaches, luxury amenities, cultural programming
  • Sustainability: 100% powered by renewable energy; regenerative tourism model
  • Access: Boat or electric vehicle; Red Sea International Airport within 3–8 hours of major markets
  • Future Development: Exclusive homes, remaining 8 resorts opening across coming months

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Categories: hotels

Paul Lo

Paul is the publisher of Red Bird Travel News, from Hong Kong, now living in Shanghai, and has worked at South China Morning Post, Apple Daily, Shanghai Daily, and Global Times.