Saudi Arabia is channeling nearly $1 trillion into the Red Sea Project by 2035, a mega-development aimed at creating a luxury tourism haven along its pristine western coastline. Announced in 2017 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as a flagship initiative of the kingdom's Vision 2030 economic blueprint, the project spans 28,000 square kilometers—roughly the size of Belgium—and encompasses 90 untouched islands, coral reefs, and diverse ecosystems. With one-third of the budget already allocated, the effort underscores Riyadh's push to diversify beyond oil, targeting $5.3 billion in annual GDP contributions by 2030 through high-end resorts, job creation, and sustainable infrastructure.

NDTV's recent visit highlighted the site's Maldives-like allure, with operational resorts like St. Regis Red Sea and Six Senses Southern Dunes drawing ultra-wealthy travelers to its crystal waters and desert canyons.

Historically isolated from non-Muslim visitors, Saudi Arabia lifted its tourism visa ban in 2019, marking a seismic shift from its pilgrim-focused identity centered on Mecca and Medina. Vision 2030 seeks to balance this religious heritage with modern luxury, attracting 150 million annual visitors by decade's end—up from 109 million in 2023—while capping Red Sea access at one million to preserve ecology.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF), the kingdom's sovereign wealth fund chaired by the Crown Prince, owns developer Red Sea Global (RSG), which is committing an additional $27 billion by 2030 for 50 resorts, marinas, and eco-adventures. This investment addresses oil's dominance—still 40% of GDP—and counters volatility from global energy transitions, fostering sectors like hospitality and renewables.

At St. Regis Red Sea, dune-shaped villas starting at ₹2.5 lakh per night offer overwater infinity pools and reef excursions, blending Japanese architect Kengo Kuma's nature-inspired designs with non-alcoholic mixology at spots like Tilina, a reefside fine-dining venue. Inland, Six Senses Southern Dunes perches on a canyon rim, evoking Nabatean heritage with wellness spas, cooking schools using local dates, and sunset views from its elevated pool.

Both properties emphasize sustainability: no single-use plastics, carbon-neutral operations, and EV fleets like Lucid Airs for transfers via private speedboats or seaplanes. Yet, challenges persist—alcohol remains banned, though a Riyadh diplomat liquor store signals potential easing, and the project navigates cultural sensitivities between modest pilgrims and bikini-clad elites.

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The Red Sea's strategic location bolsters its appeal, enhancing regional stability and trade via upgraded ports like Jeddah and Yanbu. By 2024, tourism already contributed 4% to GDP, up from negligible levels, with PIF's focus shifting to domestic assets for self-reliant growth. For Indian travelers, direct flights from Delhi to Riyadh via Air India or IndiGo, followed by short hops to Red Sea International Airport, simplify access; e-visas are available for those with prior U.S./U.K./Schengen stamps.

As the kingdom experiments with "luxury without limits," the project not only promises economic resilience but also a reimagined Saudi identity—bridging ancient heritage with futuristic ambition.

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