Here’s your chance to be one of the first visitors to Saudi Arabia‘s newly opened luxury tourism destination, The Red Sea.

Located 500km north of Jeddah, The Red Sea is surrounded by the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system, spanning over 28,000-square-kilometers and is one of KSA’s most exciting tourism developments. Poised as one of the last hidden gems in the world, the region is a vast archipelago of more than 90 islands, with pristine waters, sweeping desert dunes, mountains, dormant volcanoes and cultural and heritage sites.

The first phase of this multi-billion-dollar development is well underway, and its first resorts have opened their doors. This week, flydubai is launching its first international flight from Dubai to Red Sea International Airport (RSI), marking the start of a new twice-weekly route to The Red Sea destination.

Here’s what you need to know about travelling to the new destination.

The Red Sea Project

Led by multi-property developer Red Sea Global (RSG), the project seeks to promote sustainability and responsible tourism. By 2030, it is projected that the destination will be home to 50 luxury resorts, 8,000 rooms and up to 1,000 residential properties across more than 90 untouched natural islands, surrounded by the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system.

The Red Sea is set to redefine high-end travel. The untouched canvas of natural wonders means there is the unique advantage of being able to re-sculpt how luxury works. A multi-dimensional experience, the goal is to communicate the many layers that shape The Red Sea.

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How to travel to Saudi’s Red Sea

The Red Sea will welcome its first international flight to Red Sea International Airport (RSI) this week, opening up to international tourism for the first time.

Operated by flydubai, the flight will arrive from Dubai International (DXB) on Thursday, 18 April, marking the start of a new twice-weekly route to The Red Sea destination. A regular schedule of domestic flights operated by Saudia have been servicing RSI since September 2023 (operating internal flights from Riyadh and Jeddah).

Move over Maldives, because Saudi’s Red Sea destinations will operate sea planes, courtesy of Fly Red Sea, the first seaplane company in Saudi Arabia. Designed to transport guests between water-based resorts, each aircraft can carry up to six passengers with luggage, or up to nine passengers for scenic tours across the region.

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Where to stay

Six Senses Southern Dunes 

Located along the historic incense trade route against the backdrop of desert plains and the Hijaz Mountains, Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea resort offers 40 stunning villas and boutique 36-key hotel, providing guests with the ultimate luxury retreat.

Book your stay here.

St. Regis Red Sea Resort

Located on a pristine private island, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort offers a collection of 90 spacious overwater and beachfront villas, each with private pool.  Transportation to the island is booked via electric sedan and luxury yacht or seaplane.

Book your stay here.

Wondering why Saudi is a great (and safe) place for female travellers? Here‘s everything you need to know.