A journey to one of the world’s last unexplored marine frontiers.
Crystal-clear waters stretching to the horizon, vibrant coral reefs, and countless pristine islands waiting to be explored: this is the Saudi Red Sea. This emerging destination is capturing the world’s attention not only for its beauty but also for its commitment to the environment. Here, tourism development is progressing responsibly, with sustainability and the protection of marine life as fundamental pillars.
And indeed, few places embody the spirit of conservation better than this still largely unexplored corner of the planet. Along the western coast of Saudi Arabia unfolds a true natural sanctuary, home to more than 300 species of coral, 250 species of fish, hawksbill turtles, dugongs, dolphins, sharks, and seabirds. From its coastal cities and resorts, travelers can enjoy unique experiences: diving, turtle watching during nesting season, coral blooms, and much more.
The Saudi Red Sea is a living laboratory, where the beauty of the environment combines with the fragility — and also the resilience — of nature when it is given the prominence it deserves.
Preserving nature's masterpiece
As Saudi Arabia opens its shores to the world, it does so with a clear commitment: to promote responsible tourism. Working with organizations like Red Sea Global (RSG), the country is developing destinations that place respect for the natural environment at the heart of every project. Proof of this is the largest environmental study ever conducted in the region, which analyzed more than 1,800 kilometers of coastline and 90 islands, laying the groundwork for truly sustainable growth.
The main protagonists of this effort are the coral reefs of the Saudi Red Sea, considered among the most resilient in the world to climate change. Restoration programs, coral gardening techniques, and high-tech monitoring systems are helping this underwater ecosystem not only to be preserved but also to thrive.
PADI Ambassador Rachel Moore sums it up this way: “Diving in the Red Sea has given me back my hope. The corals here are incredibly resilient and abundant. I was amazed by the amount of live coral at the dive sites.” A testament to the immense ecological value of this corner of the planet.
Above and below the surface, adventure is guaranteed
Both sea lovers and thrill-seekers will find the Saudi Red Sea a perfect setting to connect with nature. Diving and snorkeling offer a kaleidoscope of marine life: turtles gliding among the corals, fish of a thousand colors, and an environment so pristine it surprises even the most experienced divers.
PADI Ambassador Nikhil Kandhari describes it this way: “An absolutely incredible experience: pristine waters, beautiful corals, and an enormous variety on every dive.”
From Jeddah to Yanbu, Umluj, the Farasan Islands, Tabuk, and other corners of the Saudi west coast, the possibilities are endless. Beyond diving, you can kayak through mangroves, paddleboard in sheltered bays, or simply immerse yourself in the harmony between the landscape and the sea.
And very soon, the experience will be taken to another level. Red Sea Global is already working on “Corallium,” the world’s first immersive marine life center. A space designed to educate, excite and inspire, with underwater observatories and interactive exhibits that will allow visitors to immerse themselves — literally and figuratively — in the secrets of the Red Sea.
Designed to protect, not just to impress
Saudi Arabia is embracing a new way of relating to the planet, where tourism development coexists harmoniously with nature. This philosophy is coming to life in the new Red Sea resorts, where only 1% of the destination’s total area will be developed. The rest will remain untouched, demonstrating a firm commitment to conservation.
Here, travelers can enjoy world-class hospitality without leaving a trace. Resorts like Shebara, Desert Rock, Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and The St. Regis Red Sea Resort have been designed with sustainability at their core. They operate on off-grid energy, implement zero-waste policies, and feature integrated architecture that respects local wildlife.
Responsible luxury that proves true escape doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment.
An invitation to travel consciously
At a time when the world is reflecting on the future of our oceans, the Saudi Red Sea stands as a beacon of hope. It demonstrates that tourism and conservation can not only coexist but also reinforce each other. Thanks to carefully planned development, scientific innovation, and a deep respect for the environment, Saudi Arabia is setting a new global standard in sustainable marine tourism.
Now, the invitation is open: discover the Saudi Red Sea not just as a destination, but as a different way of traveling. One that places nature at the heart of the experience and travelers as agents of change.
“Saudi Arabia, Welcome to Arabia”
“Saudi, Welcome to Arabia” is the country’s official tourism promotion brand, created to showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural, natural, and human heritage to the world and invite travelers to discover all it has to offer. Its aim is to boost the development of the tourism sector through awareness campaigns and to provide useful information and resources for planning unforgettable trips.
As the world’s fastest-growing tourist destination, Saudi Arabia—the heart of Arabia—is establishing itself as one of the most exciting year-round travel options.
About “SAUDI ARABIA, WELCOME TO ARABIA”
‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ is a consumer brand dedicated to sharing Saudi Arabia with the world and welcoming travelers to explore all that the country has to offer. The brand’s role is to boost the country’s tourism industry through awareness campaigns and provide a wide range of information and resources to help travelers plan and enjoy unforgettable trips. Its aim is to inspire travel to and within Saudi Arabia, enriching lives and uniting cultures through the discovery of our unique wonders and warm hospitality. As the world’s fastest-growing destination, Saudi Arabia, the heart of Arabia, is the most exciting new destination year-round.
Source: HOPSCOTCH Tourism