Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind The Red Sea and AMAALA, has announced the successful financial closure of a $1.5 billion agreement to establish multi-utility infrastructure at its AMAALA luxury wellness destination. This funding was secured by a consortium led by EDF Group and Masdar, alongside Korea East-West Power Company and SUEZ Company.
Backing from financial institutions
The deal, SPA reported, is backed by both local and international financial institutions, including First Abu Dhabi Bank, Emirates NBD, Riyad Bank, Saudi National Bank (SNB), and Alinma Bank. It underscores the consortium’s dedication to fulfilling AMAALA’s vision of a sustainable luxury destination.
Commitment to renewable energy
John Pagano, CEO of RSG Group, stated that the project exemplifies their capability to create large-scale tourism destinations powered entirely by renewable energy, delivering remarkable guest experiences and significant financial returns for their partners. He highlighted that the partnership with this consortium showcases their commitment to making AMAALA their second 24/7 solar-powered destination.
Innovative facility features
The upcoming facility will incorporate a cutting-edge renewable energy system that operates independently from the national electricity grid. It will feature a 250 MW photovoltaic solar power plant for electricity generation, complemented by a 700 MWh battery storage system.
Ensuring reliable power supply
To guarantee a reliable baseload power supply, the facility will include transmission and distribution lines, a desalination plant capable of producing 37 million liters of drinking water daily, as well as wastewater treatment plants. This innovative project is expected to cut carbon emissions by around 350,000 tons each year compared to similar infrastructure developments, establishing a new benchmark for sustainable luxury tourism and paving the way for advanced infrastructure solutions.
New luxury resort opening
In related news, RSG recently revealed that Saudi Arabia’s latest luxury resort, Shebara, will open its doors to guests in November 2024. This marks the fourth resort to debut at The Red Sea destination, where Shebara aims to blend luxury, sustainability, and innovation to transform the tourism experience. Guests will have direct access to an extraordinary marine environment, allowing them to dive in some of the most pristine and biodiverse waters worldwide.
The resort boasts 73 overwater and beachfront luxury villas, designed to provide an experience that transcends the ordinary. These villas, glistening under the sun, are located near a 30- to 40-meter reef drop-off just off the beach. Notably, Shebara will be the first resort at The Red Sea owned and operated by Red Sea Global, featuring its signature stainless-steel orbs.
In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Shebara offers guests the opportunity to indulge in luxury with premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and gourmet dining experiences crafted by world-class chefs, such as Michelin-starred chef Marco Garfagnini. Guests can also unwind at an exceptional nature-inspired spa sanctuary featuring five opulent treatment rooms, all set against a backdrop of sun, sea, and soft white sands.
Emphasizing its commitment to sustainability, Shebara seamlessly integrates its unique architectural design with the island’s natural environment. The resort will host its own solar farm and a variety of utilities, reinforcing Red Sea Global’s pledge as a responsible developer.
Shebara will serve as a year-round destination with pleasant summer temperatures. Located 25 kilometers from the mainland, visitors can reach the resort via a 30- to 40-minute boat ride or a 30-minute seaplane flight from Red Sea International Airport (RSI). This relative seclusion offers a haven for those seeking a remarkable escape into nature and wellness.
New developments on the horizon
RSG has also recently obtained a second operating license for a water aerodrome, enabling the establishment of a seaplane base for the Shebara resort at The Red Sea. Since welcoming its first guests last year, The Red Sea currently has three of its hotels open. Shebara and Desert Rock are set to welcome guests later this year, while Shura Island is on track to open in 2025.
Upon its full completion in 2030, the destination will feature 50 resorts, providing up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland locations. The development will also include luxurious marinas, golf courses, entertainment options, dining establishments, and leisure facilities.
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