The Red Sea Project: luxury regenerative tourism

By Editorial Staff - 10 May 2021

Regenerative tourism transforms travel into something that’s sustainable, ethical, and supports the environment. It brings about positive, even regenerative, change.

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) is the developer behind The Red Sea Project. Among the most ambitious regenerative tourism projects in the world, it’s now in the final phase of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Cities platinum certification.

John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC, said:

“As part of our ambition to become standard-bearers in luxury ecotourism, we’re proud to have passed this first stage of LEED accreditation. The award is a recognition of our efforts to go beyond the current expectations associated with sustainable tourism, and to become one of the first global destinations to demonstrate a regenerative approach to tourism.”

TRSDC was set up to lead the development of the Red Sea Project, a luxury tourism destination that will set new standards in sustainable development. The project occupies an area of 10,810 square miles (28,000 km²) of pristine land and water on the west coast of Saudi Arabia. It includes a vast archipelago of more than 90 islands. The destination also has canyons, dormant volcanoes, and cultural sites. The project involves the building of hotels, homes, and leisure, commercial, and entertainment facilities, along with all supporting infrastructure.

Mahesh Ramanujam, USGBC president and CEO, said:

“The work of cities and communities such as The Red Sea Project is a driving force in ensuring a more sustainable future for all. Cities and communities that achieve LEED certiﬁcation are lowering carbon emissions, creating a healthier environment, and striving to improve the quality of life for their residents. The Red Sea Development Company is setting the standard for what it means to be a high performer, and their eﬀorts and achievements should be an example for all.”

TRSDC is committed to delivering a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040. Part of achieving this is the creation of the largest battery storage facility in the world so that the entire site, including the islands, can be powered by renewable energy 24 hours a day.

Upon completion in 2030, The Red Sea Project will have 50 hotels, offering up to 8,000 guestrooms and approximately 1,300 residential units across 22 islands and six inland sites.