Red Sea Global Unveils Shura Island

Iconic global hospitality brands SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental are preparing to welcome their very first guests to Shura Island, the beating heart of The Red Sea project in Saudi Arabia. This milestone marks a major step in transforming the Kingdom into one of the world’s leading luxury tourism destinations under Vision 2030. Alongside the resorts, Shura Island will also debut Shura Links, the country’s first island championship 18-hole golf course, promising an unforgettable world-class golfing experience. Adding to its appeal, the island is set to host a collection of ultra-exclusive homes, offering investors and residents a rare opportunity to own part of this groundbreaking luxury destination.

Shura Island: The Vibrant Core of The Red Sea

Developed by Red Sea Global (RSG), the visionary developer behind regenerative tourism projects The Red Sea and AMAALA, Shura Island is central to Saudi Arabia’s ambition of redefining global tourism. Phase one of the launch is scheduled in the coming weeks and will include the opening of three luxury resorts — SLS Red Sea, The Red Sea EDITION, and InterContinental The Red Sea Resort. Together, these developments demonstrate the potential of regenerative tourism, combining luxury with sustainability.

According to John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, “Shura Island represents everything RSG stands for: bold ambition, deep respect for nature, and a commitment to redefining tourism in Saudi Arabia and beyond. With the soft opening of Shura, we move closer to our mission of setting new standards in regenerative tourism, while realizing Vision 2030.”

When fully complete, Shura Island will feature 11 world-class resorts. Guests will enjoy seamless access to pristine natural landscapes, luxury hospitality, gourmet dining, cultural activities, wellness experiences, and unique retail options. Visitors will be transported either by electric vehicle across the stunning 3.3 km Shura crossing — Saudi Arabia’s longest internal bridge — or by boat to the island’s marina. Once there, they will step into a paradise of turquoise lagoons, untouched beaches, and elevated luxury.

Accessibility: Red Sea International Airport (RSI)

Travelers will reach Shura Island through Red Sea International Airport (RSI), a key gateway strategically located within three hours’ flying distance for 250 million people and eight hours for 85% of the global population. RSI already operates regular domestic and international flights, with Qatar Airways recently confirming direct flights three times a week. Additional international connections are expected to follow, making the Red Sea one of the most accessible luxury destinations in the Middle East.

The First Resorts on Shura Island

The first trio of resorts promises to set a new benchmark in luxury and sustainability:

• SLS Red Sea: Combining natural beauty with the brand’s signature bold design, SLS Red Sea will offer 150 luxurious rooms and villas, including beachfront and overwater accommodations. Guests can look forward to curated cultural, wellness, and leisure activities designed to deliver a vibrant luxury experience.
• The Red Sea EDITION: A modern sanctuary blending luxury and serenity, EDITION brings 240 elegantly designed rooms, including 53 spacious suites. Highlights include a world-class spa, multiple gourmet dining venues, watersports, and access to the island’s golf course. EDITION positions itself as a haven for discerning travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• InterContinental The Red Sea Resort: This five-star barefoot luxury retreat features 178 guest rooms and 32 exclusive suites. Guests will enjoy five dining outlets, an indulgent spa, flexible event spaces, and architecture inspired by the beauty of the coral reefs surrounding the island.

Looking ahead, eight more iconic hospitality brands will open resorts on Shura Island, including Four Seasons, Jumeirah, Grand Hyatt, Rosewood, Fairmont, Faena, Raffles, and Miraval. Together, they will create one of the most diverse luxury hospitality hubs in the world.

Sustainability and Design Innovation

Naturally shaped like a dolphin, Shura Island has been masterfully designed by Foster + Partners, a world-renowned architectural firm. The design concept, known as Coral Bloom, draws direct inspiration from the coral reefs that surround the island. Each resort has been carefully planned to integrate seamlessly with the environment, ensuring minimal ecological impact and maximum energy efficiency.

Importantly, Shura Island, like the rest of The Red Sea project, will be powered entirely by renewable energy. This commitment to sustainability makes it one of the most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations globally, setting new industry standards for eco-friendly development.

Exclusive Homes on Shura Island

In addition to luxury resorts, Shura Island will also feature a limited collection of exclusive private residences. These ultra-luxury homes were announced earlier this year and will be available for handover by the end of 2025. Owners will gain privileged access to the island’s pristine beaches, azure waters, entertainment venues, and world-class resorts. This offering presents an unprecedented opportunity to own property in one of the world’s most prestigious tourism developments.

Shura Links: Saudi Arabia’s First Island Golf Course

Adding to the island’s attractions, Shura Links is scheduled to open in September. This championship 18-hole golf course is designed to deliver a world-class experience, blending challenging play with sustainable design practices. The course features spectacular coastal views, seamlessly integrating natural desert terrain with lush fairways. Key sustainability initiatives include innovative water management and eco-friendly course maintenance, ensuring harmony with the pristine coastal environment.

Shura Links will be easily accessible for both resort guests and island residents, further enhancing Shura’s appeal as a luxury destination for leisure, sport, and relaxation.

Red Sea Global’s Impact

Beyond luxury tourism, RSG is driving economic diversification and social development across Saudi Arabia. Through projects like The Red Sea and AMAALA, the company is creating 120,000 new jobs, promoting economic growth, and pioneering a sustainable future for generations to come. These projects are central to Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s transformative national agenda.

RSG’s growing portfolio now includes The Red Sea (launched in 2023), AMAALA (set to open in 2025), and Thuwal Private Retreat (opened in 2024). The developer is also overseeing upgrades to Al Wajh Airport, including a new international terminal, further enhancing connectivity to the region.

Conclusion

Shura Island is set to become the crown jewel of The Red Sea, offering a once-in-a-lifetime luxury experience that blends regenerative tourism with world-class hospitality. From iconic brands like SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental to exclusive residences and Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, the island epitomizes the bold vision of Red Sea Global. With its focus on sustainability, cultural richness, and unmatched hospitality, Shura Island is poised to redefine luxury tourism not only in Saudi Arabia but on the global stage.