Saudi Arabias Red Sea development
Saudi Arabias massive 28,000 square kilometre development along the Red Sea coast is set to become a scuba diving paradise, with the potential to rival Egypts famous diving destinations. The project, known as Red Sea Global and Amaala, aims to offer luxury hotels, dining experiences, and outdoor activities while prioritizing sustainability. The entire site will operate on 100% solar energy and strive to produce zero waste. In efforts to protect the marine ecosystem, the Red Sea plans to limit the number of visitors to one million per year. Developers are confident that the regions untouched sandy coastlines and azure waters, along with the abundance of coral reefs and marine life, will attract scuba enthusiasts from around the globe.
To challenge Egypts status as a diving hotspot, Saudi Arabias Red Sea boasts its own unique features. Egypts popular resorts in Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheik have long been renowned for their rich marine biodiversity, shipwrecks, and colorful coral. However, the Red Sea offers a new, pristine diving experience. Unlike Egypts crowded resorts, the Red Sea plans to carefully manage and minimize the impact of divers on its reefs. Galaxae, a subsidiary of Red Sea Global, will oversee diving activities, working closely with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) to maintain the ecological integrity of the marine environment. Strict control and sustainability measures aim to protect this precious underwater realm.
While specific diving sites have not yet been disclosed, the potential for scuba diving in Saudi Arabias Red Sea is highly promising. The vast archipelago surrounded by a barrier reef provides a wide array of diving locations. A recent research study conducted in the Al Wajh lagoon, a 2,081 square kilometre area with 92 islands, unveiled diverse habitats and an array of marine life, including critically endangered species like the Halavi Guitarfish and Sooty Falcon. The study also discovered an astonishing eight-metre-high coral colony dating back almost 600 years. Additionally, plans are underway to explore an 18th-century merchant shipwreck believed to be the best-preserved wooden wreck in the Red Sea, still carrying artifacts from its voyage.
Saudi Arabia demonstrates a sustainable approach to the development of their diving destination. Efforts to protect the regions valuable assets, such as mangrove mangals and coral reefs, are proving instrumental. The developers have committed to planting 50 million new mangrove trees, with the first one million already in the process of transplantation. Mangroves act as significant carbon sinks and contribute to combating climate change. The builders also strategically select locations to avoid damaging existing reefs, employing silt curtains to prevent disturbance to the seabed and safeguard corals. Coral farming is utilized to aid reef rejuvenation, a common practice worldwide.
What sets the Red Sea resorts apart is their unwavering commitment to renewable energy. These resorts will soon become the worlds largest destination entirely powered by 100% renewable energy. The initial phase of this ambitious project includes a solar farm featuring 750,000 solar panels. By prioritizing sustainability, maintaining ecological balance, and embracing renewable energy sources, Saudi Arabias Red Sea is poised to become the next big diving destination, offering scuba enthusiasts an unparalleled and eco-friendly underwater experience. Source: euronews.com
