Until 2019, Saudi Arabia was a place shrouded in mystery. That's because it was pretty much closed to tourists except those traveling on religious pilgrimages to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Then, in 2019, the Kingdom made a landmark decision to allow tourist visas for travelers coming from an approved list of 49 countries (now up to 66). This was a part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, an ambitious plan to diversify its economy away from oil dependence by promoting sectors like tourism. In fact, Saudi Arabia is hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
Suddenly, the doors were thrown open and everyone wanted to visit. According to figures from the Saudi Ministry of Tourism, the country welcomed more than 100 million tourists in 2023 — seven years ahead of the target set out under Vision 2030. It has since increased its goal to 150 million tourists by 2030.
At the heart of Saudi Arabia's tourism strategy lies the Red Sea Project, an expansive development on the western coastline of the country poised to redefine luxury — many believe that the region will compete with spots like the Maldives and French Polynesia.
Why Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Region is on the Travel Radar
The Red Sea, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and some of the best diving in the world has long been associated with Egypt's coastline, including Sharm El Sheikh. However, the eastern shores of the Red Sea, which border Saudi Arabia, have remained largely unexplored by international tourists. Now, seasoned travelers looking for the next under-the-radar spot to visit are putting the Kingdom at the top of their list.
Located approximately 310 miles north of Jeddah and spanning around 28,000 square kilometers (10,811 square miles), the Red Sea Project encompasses over 90 islands, desert landscapes, mountains, and volcanic areas, and is garnering attention for its swift development of high-end coastal and desert resorts. In addition to scuba diving, the region is slated to attract adventure enthusiasts and wellness seekers.
The Red Sea Project is also deeply committed to environmental sustainability. Only 22 of the 90 islands will be developed, leaving the majority untouched. Saudi is aiming for 30% net conservation to protect the region's unique coral reefs, mangroves, and diverse marine life. Over 3.6 million plants and trees have been grown since June 2021 with plans to import 30 million by 2026 — making it the largest landscape nursery in the Middle East.
Where to Stay
The region has been rapidly opening new luxury properties with still more to come: There will be an estimated 50 resorts by 2030. For now, the ones below are some of the top accommodations in the area.
Six Senses Southern Dunes, the Red Sea Project's inaugural resort having opened in 2023, is the world's first zero-carbon 5G network. Basically, that means its high-speed 5G connectivity uses 100% renewable energy from 760,000 solar panels. The resort has 36 rooms and suites and an almost 4,000 square-meter (over 43,000 square feet) spa. Reflecting the Saudi Arabian landscape, the two-story spa's architectural design pays homage to the Nabataean (ancient Arab) heritage with a sleek, modern desert vibe. Notably, it includes a sensory suite with a meditation dome and outdoor treatment cabanas.
Situated on a private island within the Ummahat archipelago, you can get to The St. Regis Red Sea Resort via speedboat or seaplane. The property has a combination of 90 overwater and beachfront villas, many with private pools. There are several restaurants on-site, a spa, a water sports center, and a large pool.
Part of the esteemed Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, the elegant Nujuma also has a mix of overwater and beachfront villas, said to be inspired by seashells. Spread out around a visually stunning circular walkway, the domed villas have a futuristic quality, though the natural materials they're made of also give them a somewhat organic look. A big draw is the resort's many water activities, which include kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Travelers can rent gear and take lessons on-site.
Shebara is a one-of-a-kind resort that almost blends in with its surroundings: overwater bungalows look like shiny stainless steel orbs, reminiscent of a string of pearls, while beachfront villas mimic sand dunes. The resort, which has a strong commitment to conservation (it runs entirely on clean, renewable energy), has perfected barefoot luxury but also attracts families thanks to an impressive kid's club. A state-of-the-art gym and spa, as well as five restaurants, add to its appeal.
What to Do
The Red Sea is a super popular spot for diving and snorkeling, as it's home to the world's fourth-largest barrier reef system. It has over 210 species of hard corals and 120 species of soft corals. There's a variety of underwater life, including hawksbill sea turtles, guitarfish, eels, and more.
In addition to water activities, which most upscale resorts offer on-site, you can also go on hikes and bike rides. The dramatic beauty of granite hills, volcanic lava fields, sweeping plains, and sand dunes is unrivaled.
Travelers can also charter a boat for the day or book a local community visit to a nearby village to learn more about Saudi culture. Everything can be booked through the resorts.
Not to be missed is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al-Balad in Jeddah, a historical area known for its traditional architecture, coral stone buildings, many art galleries, and vibrant shops selling fabrics, spices, and souvenirs.
Where to Eat
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort is home to a variety of excellent restaurants, but Gishiki 45, is a standout. The beachfront Japanese spot serves fresh, locally sourced seafood and sushi and dazzles with live cooking shows and a traditional tea ceremony.
Desert Rock Resort is a stunning architectural feat tucked away in the Hejaz Mountains with villas carved into a cliff. Its restaurant Nyra is as visually impressive as its food is delicious. The cave-like spot, helmed by farm-to-table pioneer and Michelin-starred chef Osman Sezener, focuses on wood-fired cooking, as well as smoking, curing, and protein-aging methods and local ingredients.
For traditional Saudi Arabian dishes with a fine dining twist, there's Al Sarab at the Six Senses. The menu features a huge assortment of mocktails, Arabic tapas, and local dishes such as Saleeg, a white-rice dish made with broth and milk that originated in the Hejaz region in the west of Saudi Arabia.
Jeddah, the town closest to the Red Sea project's resorts, is Saudi Arabia’s second-largest city. When not dining at resorts, guests usually head here. While it's a bustling metropolis, it perfectly melds the modern and futuristic with rich history and heritage and is home to several great restaurants like Kuuru, which combines Peruvian and Japanese cuisine with dishes including ceviche, sushi, and nigiri, and Twina, a local favorite that has a few locations around town. A fish market of sorts, the seafood spot serves freshly caught fish (diners can pick their fish from a showcase) in a variety of preparations as well as traditional Saudi dishes like syadieh rice (spiced rice cooked with caramelized onions). For a truly local vibe, there's Al Basali, a small and unassuming seafood restaurant that dates back to 1949. Fresh local fish is served fried or grilled and comes in enormous portions. Be sure to get Al Basali's popular bakhamry, small pieces of fried bread similar to a doughnut.
How to Get There
The Red Sea International Airport, which opened in 2023, is open to international flights, providing direct access to the region. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah is about five hours south, and also a major gateway. Most upscale resorts on the Red Sea offer either seaplane or boat connections to the resort from major Saudi cities or airports.
When to Visit
The best time to visit the Red Sea region is between October and April, when temperatures are milder, ranging from 68°F to 86°F. Temperatures can exceed 104°F from May to September, making some outdoor activities uncomfortable. December through February are usually peak season for visitors.
Know Before You Go
While the Red Sea resorts offer a relaxed atmosphere, don't forget you're still in a conservative, religious country. Travelers can wear swimsuits, shorts, and sunwear at the resorts, but when interacting with local communities, it's respectful to dress modestly and be mindful of cultural norms.