Saudi Arabia’s mega project on the Red Sea coast, Shura Island, is set to make its debut in the global tourism scene in October 2025 with the opening of three new resort hotels.
Shura Island consolidates the Middle East’s most compelling tourism attractions into a single hub, offering a globally strategic expansion that enhances the region’s destination diversity.
Developed by Red Sea Global, Shura Island stands out as one of the most ambitious pillars of the country’s tourism vision. The island’s first three hotels — EDITION, SLS, and InterContinental — will begin welcoming guests this year.
The choice of global hotel brands in the first wave ensures international credibility and prestige for the destination, making it easier for Shura Island to capture the attention of global tour operators from day one.
In total, the island is being developed with an investment portfolio of around USD 7 billion, encompassing more than 50 resorts, private villas, a marina, sports facilities, and cultural venues. This investment is designed not only to expand accommodation capacity but also to transform transportation and service infrastructure across the region.
By integrating marine tourism, marina operations, sports tourism, and cultural event economies under one umbrella, the project aims to establish multi-dimensional revenue models.
From an economic perspective, Shura Island is projected to generate over USD 500 million in annual tourism revenue in its initial phase, with that figure expected to rise to USD 2 billion once the island reaches full capacity. Catering to high-income travelers, this luxury destination will play a key role in advancing the nation’s experience-driven tourism strategy.
With sustainable architecture, smart energy solutions, and a development plan that protects ecological balance, Shura Island is positioned as a benchmark not only in tourism but also in environmental management.
The project also carries major significance for employment. The opening phase is anticipated to create around 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s strategy to diversify its tourism sector and drive regional economic growth.
As one of the flagship initiatives of Vision 2030, Shura Island embodies Saudi Arabia’s ambition to establish itself as a new focal point on the global luxury tourism map.
Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Shura Island is envisioned not merely as a holiday spot but as a new global hub of luxury tourism, setting new standards for exclusive travel experiences on the Red Sea.
