Saudi Arabia’s pioneering project, Red Sea International (RSI) airport, is paving its way for a grand launch. Initially, the airport will facilitate domestic flights traveling to and from Riyadh, extending its operations to Jeddah shortly after. As per the scheduled plans, international flights are set to commence by 2024.
In a significant development, Red Sea Global (RSG) recently inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the national airline, Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) and the globally recognized airport operator, daa International. This collaboration will see SAUDIA become the inaugural airline to operate flights to and from RSI. Additionally, RSI will serve the first trio of Red Sea resorts, as stated in a recent Tuesday announcement.
Reflecting on the Kingdom’s journey, John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global reminisced, “In 2016, His Royal Highness, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, envisioned a flourishing Saudi Arabia. A nation renowned as a global epicenter, attracting individuals globally to immerse in the finest of Saudi’s cultural, hospitable, and natural offerings.” Pagano expressed that the touchdown of the first commercial flight at Red Sea International symbolizes more than just a triumph for Red Sea Global. It epitomises the transformation of Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision into a tangible reality. He added, “The decision to have the Kingdom’s flagship carrier, SAUDIA, initiate operations from our location couldn’t be more apt.”
Further elaborating on the collaboration, the MoU outlines SAUDIA’s commitment to regular scheduled flights to and from RSI. The partnership goes beyond routine operations. All three entities, RSG, SAUDIA, and daa International, will jointly research the incorporation of Lower Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at RSI. Another intriguing aspect of the deal includes evaluating the potential of electric vertical take-off and landing jets (eVTOL), aiming to reduce air travel emissions in the Red Sea region.
Capt. Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This agreement is a monumental chapter in Saudi’s aviation legacy. Under the aegis of Vision 2030, SAUDIA aims to play a pivotal role in achieving the objectives of mega projects. Being the first to operate from RSI fills our hearts with immense pride. This collaboration enhances our stature within the Kingdom, fostering synergy with RSG and Daa International. Our collective goal is to boost tourism and elevate Saudi’s global aviation standing.”
Nicholas Cole, CEO of Daa International, shared similar sentiments. He underscored RSI as a novel portal for global travelers to explore Saudi Arabia’s marvels. “By pooling our unparalleled airport management expertise, we aim to collaborate with RSG and SAUDIA, ensuring RSI’s services stand unparalleled,” he said.
In its mission to redefine luxury and hospitality, the Red Sea will introduce 13 state-of-the-art hotels in its initial phase. By 2030, travelers can expect an expansive destination, boasting 50 resorts, approximately 8,000 hotel rooms, and over 1,000 plush residential properties spread across 22 islands and six inland locations. The locale will further entice visitors with luxury marinas, exquisite golf courses, vibrant entertainment hubs, gourmet dining outlets, and myriad leisure amenities.