On 5 November 2024, the Saudi Tourism Authority officially launched the coastal super-destination, the Saudi Red Sea, during a ceremony at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London. His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of Saudi Tourism Authority, took to the stage to formally inaugurate this groundbreaking initiative.
The Saudi Red Sea represents a pioneering effort in sustainable coastal development, encompassing a pristine 1,800-kilometre stretch of virgin coastline. This launch presents an extraordinary opportunity for superyachts, featuring cutting-edge infrastructure, dive sites, luxury accommodations and untouched natural landscapes. Red Sea Global, NEOM, Amaala, Jeddah Historical and KAEC were among the coastal destinations that were present on the stand.
His Excellency said: Saudi’s participation in the World Travel Market is integral to our commitment to showcasing the Kingdom’s innovative and sustainable approach to tourism. Our rapid growth and record-breaking achievement positions Saudi as a leading destination for tourism and investment. I was delighted to launch the Saudi Red Sea to our trade partners, guests and visitors to the Saudi Village pavilion, highlighting the undiscovered beauty that awaits visitors to Saudi.”
The north area of the destination will focus on the natural beauty of the sea, encompassing marquee destinations such as NEOM, Sindalah and Amaala. The centre is based around Jeddah, highlighting the metropolis and fun at sea. The south will then focus on tradition, nature and cultural activities.
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, also took to the stage to speak on the launch and emphasise the significance of this initiative. “Today we are very proud to launch our new world coastal marvel, a new super-destination," he announced. "The first and longest riviera in the world, and a virgin coastline that spans 1,800 kilometres - 12 times the French Riviera.”
Prior to WTM, Saudi Arabia's tourism sector showcased record-breaking achievements, surpassing its target by welcoming over 100 million tourists seven years ahead of schedule. The Saudi delegation will unveil significant announcements and partnerships throughout WTM, illustrating its pioneering approach to tourism at The Saudi Pavilion.
The Saudi Red Sea encompasses 500 diving sites, 300 coral species and 1,200 fish species. There are 1,000 islands too, but in a conscious effort, only 25 are to be developed. “We have 70 beaches and marinas, 3,500 berths open and ready very soon,” Hamidaddin added. "Every time we see you, we have news to celebrate but this is a coastal celebration like no other.”
The Saudi delegation at WTM includes the Ministry of Tourism, the Tourism Development Fund, ASFAR, Cruise Saudi, Saudia, Riyadh Air, Red Sea Global, Diriyah Company, the Royal Commission for AlUla and NEOM.
In August 2024, the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) issued its inaugural regulation governing yacht activities within the region. This regulation outlines essential requirements and conditions and oversees the issuance of tourism and leisure licenses and permits. It is designed to ensure environmental protection, sustainability and adherence to safety standards as part of SRSA’s role in fostering a more sustainable coastal tourism sector.
The regulation extends to areas such as water toys, recreational fishing, plastic usage and diving - all aimed at promoting responsibility, minimising pollution and conserving the Red Sea.