How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability

Special How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability
1 / 2
Aerial view of Shebara, a luxury hotel brand at the Red Sea destination. Located on Sheybarah Island in the thriving Al Wajh Lagoon, the resort contains 73 keys, including overwater and beach villas. (Photo courtesy: Red Sea Global)
Special How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability
2 / 2
Aerial view of Shebara, a luxury hotel brand at the Red Sea destination. Located on Sheybarah Island in the thriving Al Wajh Lagoon, the resort contains 73 keys, including overwater and beach villas. (Photo courtesy: Red Sea Global)
Short Url
Updated 15 February 2025
Follow

How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability

How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability
  • Unsustainable tourism is degrading ecosystems, harming biodiversity, and leading to cultural exploitation
  • Red Sea Global’s luxury destinations limit visitors to 1 million per year to ease pressure on the environment

RIYADH: At the heart of Saudi Arabia’s environmental strategy is regenerative tourism, which aims to protect natural habitats through science-led approaches and sustainable practices.

Unlike sustainable tourism, which aims to minimize harm, regenerative tourism strives to improve destinations through conservation, community engagement and science-led initiatives.

This includes implementing eco-friendly infrastructure, protecting biodiversity, and involving local communities in conservation efforts to ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits.

Raed Albasseet, group chief environment and sustainability officer at Red Sea Global, says the real estate company practices “regenerative tourism” with a commitment to operate on renewable energy alone.

“This commitment is not just a tagline; it’s woven into the very infrastructure of our destinations ... integrating sustainability into every phase of design and construction,” he told Arab News.

“Visitors can already experience this firsthand at The Red Sea, where eco-conscious designs are effortlessly integrated into every aspect of their stay.”

The Red Sea, a luxury regenerative tourism destination on Saudi Arabia’s west coast, features world-class resorts. By 2030, it will include 50 hotels, 8,000 rooms and more than 1,000 residences, while capping visitors at 1 million annually to help protect local ecosystems.

Opinion

This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)

As part of this plan, Red Sea Global has developed the Desert Rock Resort, a newly opened retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Designed to reduce energy use and maximize natural light, its elevated rooms feature large openings that mimic cave mouths, allowing ample daylight to filter in.

Before construction began at the Desert Rock Resort, Red Sea Global partnered with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology to conduct a comprehensive marine spatial planning simulation.

“This was the largest study of its kind ever undertaken in Saudi Arabia, and it provided crucial data to inform our master plan and minimize our impact on the delicate marine ecosystem,” Albasseet said, adding: “As a result, we limited development to only 22 of the more than 90 islands at The Red Sea destination.”  




The Desert Rock Resort, developed by Red Sea Global, is a retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. 

The Desert Rock Resort even repurposed excavated materials, meaning no additional materials were brought in for the main infrastructure.

“We used the mountains’ natural stone for interior and exterior walls and concrete was mixed using local sources of sand and stone,” said Albasseet. “To further reduce on-site disruption and waste, we emphasize pre-fabrication and off-site manufacturing.”

Moreover, Red Sea Global’s hotels and resorts are powered by solar energy, allowing guests to enjoy an eco-friendly destination with a zero carbon footprint.

Albasseet said the backbone of the company’s renewable energy strategy was Red Sea’s vast solar farms, which include hundreds of thousands of photovoltaic panels — more than 750,000 are currently in place.

“These farms generate clean electricity, significantly reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing our carbon footprint,” he said.

“To ensure a consistent and reliable power supply, even when the sun isn’t shining, we’ve also built one of the world’s largest battery storage facilities at The Red Sea. This … allows us to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it to power our resorts at night.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• Diriyah, a historic landmark in Riyadh, is being developed sustainably under Vision 2030, earning platinum-level LEED precertification.

• The Farasan Islands, a biodiverse Red Sea archipelago, are being developed for conservation and ecotourism.

• Soudah Development is transforming Saudi Arabia’s southern region into a luxury destination with a focus on ecosystem restoration.

This reliance on solar power extends beyond Red Sea Global’s resorts and hotels.

“It also powers Red Sea International Airport, putting it on track to become the region’s first airport powered entirely by renewable energy,” Albasseet said. “Even our 5G network, a crucial component of modern connectivity, runs on solar energy, making it the world’s first sunlight-powered network.”




A wider view of the Desert Rock resort, a luxury destibation set in a hidden valley and nestled between the mountains near Umluj governorate in Tabuk region. (Red Sea Global photo) 

Shebara and Desert Rock, which opened to guests last year, have integrated advanced water systems and water-saving strategies through smart irrigation systems that optimize water use.

“A key element of our water conservation efforts is the implementation of closed-loop systems. Notably, at Desert Rock we have advanced water retention and distribution systems that capture rainwater,” Albasseet said.

“This captured rainwater is being used to sustain the surrounding wadi, revitalizing the local ecosystem and minimizing reliance on external water sources.

“The resort’s design also incorporates water-efficient fixtures and landscaping, further reducing water usage in day-to-day operations. This integration of natural water systems into the resort’s design demonstrates our commitment to working with, rather than against, the natural environment.”




Soudah, a luxurious mountain destination 3,015 meters above sea level in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia, is more than just a mountain retreat. It  offers a range of immersive natural experiences and the opportunity to celebrate the cultural abundance of the region. (Soudah Development photo)

The consequences of unsustainable tourism are far-reaching, ranging from the degradation of delicate ecosystems and biodiversity loss to the exploitation of local communities and cultural commodification. “The current trajectory is simply not viable,” Albasseet said.

“Encouraging sustainable tourism practices is no longer a choice but a necessity for the future of our planet and the travel industry itself … The industry’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, estimated at 8 percent globally, underscores the urgent need for transformative change.

“This is not simply about minimizing negative impacts; it’s about actively restoring and regenerating the destinations we cherish.”

Furthermore, he added: “These practices undermine the very foundation of the tourism industry, jeopardizing the natural and cultural assets that attract visitors in the first place.

“The increasing awareness of these issues among travelers, coupled with global commitments like the Paris Climate Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, further reinforces the need for the industry to embrace sustainability.”
 

 


Saudi fund celebrates cultural innovation at Storytellers event

Saudi fund celebrates cultural innovation at Storytellers event
Updated 44 sec ago
Follow

Saudi fund celebrates cultural innovation at Storytellers event

Saudi fund celebrates cultural innovation at Storytellers event

Riyadh gathering highlights new opportunities, fosters Saudi cultural entrepreneurship

Riyadh: The Cultural Development Fund hosted the third annual Storytellers event in Riyadh, bringing together key officials, cultural leaders, entrepreneurs and creators from various cultural fields.

The gathering is part of the fund’s efforts to strengthen connections, explore new opportunities and support the sector’s momentum, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

It featured a keynote by the fund’s CEO, Majed Al-Hugail, followed by remarks from representatives of the Elite Chefs Center, behind the CHEFPreneur program — one of the initiatives supported by the fund.

The program equips aspiring chefs with culinary expertise and entrepreneurial skills to launch their own projects and establish competitive businesses.

The gathering also celebrated 42 graduates of the program who had completed their training.

In line with its commitment to supporting enabled projects, the fund showcased several beneficiary projects, allowing guests to experience their creative offerings firsthand.

The event featured cultural activities aligned with the Year of Handicrafts 2025. Guests took part in traditional crafts like prayer bead-making and henna art, while a special art exhibition showcased works by visual artist and craftswoman Naifah Al-Shahrani.

Inspired by the traditional Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, the exhibition honored the rich heritage of southern Saudi Arabia with vibrant colors and intricate details.

The event aimed to strengthen strategic partnerships with government entities, the private sector and nonprofit organizations to drive sustainable growth in the cultural sector, contributing to economic development and enhancing quality of life.

Nawaf Al-Owain, the fund’s marketing and communication executive director, told Arab News: “This annual gathering is part of the fund’s efforts to foster strong partnerships with key stakeholders and sustain the cultural sector’s momentum.

“It also reflects the fund’s role as a key financial enabler and its commitment to empowering creatives and cultural entrepreneurship.”

He added: “Now in its third year, the event has become a cornerstone of the fund’s outreach efforts, establishing a platform that unites creatives, entrepreneurs and influencers to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and explore collaboration opportunities across cultural and financial sectors.

“By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the fund aims to promote partnerships that drive growth and sustainability in the cultural sector.”


Historic Al-Qalaah Mosque in Riyadh restored in traditional Najdi style

Historic Al-Qalaah Mosque in Riyadh restored in traditional Najdi style
Updated 55 min 50 sec ago
Follow

Historic Al-Qalaah Mosque in Riyadh restored in traditional Najdi style

Historic Al-Qalaah Mosque in Riyadh restored in traditional Najdi style

RIYADH: The historic Al-Qalaah Mosque in Hotat Bani Tamim, Riyadh, is among the places of worship restored as part of a national project, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques aims to safeguard Islamic heritage and highlight traditional architectural styles.

Established in 1835 and named after the castle of Imam Turki bin Abdullah that once stood on its premises, Al-Qalaah Mosque holds significant historical value, which the project seeks to preserve.

Upon completion, the mosque will cover 625 sq. meters, accommodating up to 180 worshipers, the SPA reported.

Built in the Najdi style, the mosque primarily uses clay, with a construction method involving a clay and hay mixture placed in wooden molds to form brick-like structures.

This technique is known for its economic efficiency compared to other materials, offering advantages such as thermal resistance and maintaining a moderate indoor temperature.

It is one of 30 mosques across 13 regions included in phase two, featuring six in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Madinah, three in Asir, and two each in the Eastern Province, Jouf and Jazan. One mosque is included in each of the Northern Borders, Tabuk, Baha, Najran, Hail and Qassim.

Phase two follows the completion of phase one in 2018, which restored 30 mosques in 10 regions, according to the SPA.

The project balances traditional and modern construction standards, ensuring the sustainability of mosque components while preserving heritage.

Saudi companies and engineers specializing in heritage restoration are leading the development efforts, according to the report.

The project’s four strategic objectives include restoring historic mosques for worship, preserving architectural authenticity, highlighting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, and enhancing the religious and cultural significance of religious sites.


Kingdom arrests 25,150 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 25,150 illegals in one week
Updated 22 March 2025
Follow

Kingdom arrests 25,150 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 25,150 illegals in one week

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 25,150 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 17,886 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,247 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,017 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,553 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 69 percent were Ethiopian, 28 percent Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 63 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 36 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, the SPA reported.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


KSrelief delivers aid to vulnerable communities

KSrelief delivers aid to vulnerable communities
Updated 22 March 2025
Follow

KSrelief delivers aid to vulnerable communities

KSrelief delivers aid to vulnerable communities

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has delivered thousands of food packages to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

In the Syrian Arab Republic, 840 packages were distributed across several governorates as part of the Etaam Ramadan project.

KSrelief also provided 190 food packages to Syrian refugees in the town of Shebaa, Lebanon, benefiting 950 people.

In South Africa’s Vereeniging, 400 packages were distributed to families, while 190 parcels went to those in need in southern Lebanon, aiding 900 individuals.

In Tajikistan, KSrelief delivered food packages to 600 families in Baljuvon district.

Now in its fourth phase, the Etaam project aims to distribute more than 390,000 food parcels in 27 countries during Ramadan, benefiting 2.3 million people at a cost of more than SR67 million ($17.8 million).

Additionally, KSrelief distributed 4,050 cartons of dates in Yemen’s Aden governorate, benefiting 24,300 people.


Worshippers urged to follow crowd guidelines in Makkah

Worshippers urged to follow crowd guidelines in Makkah
Updated 22 March 2025
Follow

Worshippers urged to follow crowd guidelines in Makkah

Worshippers urged to follow crowd guidelines in Makkah

MAKKAH: Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, head of the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, urged worshippers to cooperate with authorities in managing crowd flow in Makkah.

He emphasized avoiding congestion and adhering to guidelines to ensure safety and security, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

After Isha prayer at the Grand Mosque, Al-Sudais spoke about Ramadan’s last 10 nights, urging Muslims to take them seriously and recognize the significance of Laylat Al-Qadr.

He stressed seizing this opportunity for good deeds, highlighting the period’s great significance in Ramadan, the SPA reported.

Al-Sudais praised the leadership’s dedication to the Two Holy Mosques and the services provided to visitors.