Saudi Red Sea coastal tourism project was a primary focus of Saudi Arabia’s pavilion at the November 5-7 World Travel Market in London, one of the largest annual gatherings of exhibitors and tourism professionals.
This year’s World Travel Market (WTM) in London showcased 4,000 exhibitors and over 45,000 verified travel professionals.
In addition to the Saudi Pavilion which featured daily live sets with DJ Leen, a female DJ from Saudi Arabia, the Saudi delegation included 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.
The primary focus was Saudi Red Sea which is the kingdom’s blueprint plan for developing and managing coastal tourism along its 1,800-kilometre stretch of Red Sea coastline.
The Saudi Red Sea initiative includes 500 diving sites, 300 coral species and 1,200 fish species as well as 1,000 islands (with only 25 to be developed).
According to the plan, the northern region of the coast (NEOM, Sindalah, Amaala and others) will focus on luxury experiences. The central area (Jeddah) will feature vibrant city life and a variety of midscale offerings. Southern coastal regions will lead with traditional culture, nature, and immersive activities.
Speaking at the WTM, Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, said:
“There is only one Saudi Red Sea and today we introduce this exciting new super destination first to our trade partners. The Saudi Red Sea – the longest vertical riviera and undiscovered coastal marvel – is home to over 1,000 islands, 500 dive sites, 300 coral species and 75 beaches. From luxury, to entertainment, to history and heritage, as well as adventures on land and sea, this unveiling demonstrates Saudi’s ambition to creating a diverse and dynamic destination, highlighting the country’s unique tourism offerings as another marquee destination in the authentic Home of Arabia.”
Yachting is also a focal point for the Saudi Red Sea project with regulations issued in August 2024 and the opening of Sindalah.
Luxury island destination Sindalah is first NEOM project to open to guests
In addition, conservation and sustainability are key elements of all Saudi Red Sea projects. A recent example is the discovery of the largest sea turtle nesting site in the Red Sea.
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