Red Sea Global announces first luxury golf island
Red Sea Global announces first luxury golf island
Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind Saudi Arabia's flagship tourism projects The Red Sea and AMAALA, on Monday revealed designs for Shura Links, the kingdom's first 18-hole island golf course set to open fully in 2025.
Located on Shura Island at The Red Sea development, Shura Links promises "a one-of-a-kind golf experience" with holes on the water, marina views and fairways framed by the Red Sea, RSG said in a statement.
"Shura Links will provide an unparalleled golfing experience, offering a visually stunning, natural course right here on the Red Sea," said John Pagano, RSG's Group Chief Executive Officer.
"We are committed to ensuring Shura Links aligns with our ambition to set new sustainability standards. From innovative turf management and careful foliar feeding, we're putting respect for nature above everything else," he added.
Top-rated golf course
The par-72 course, designed by renowned golf architect Brian Curley, features multiple tee experiences at each hole and measures up to 7,500 yards (6,858 metres) from the championship tees.
"There are very few places in the world that can offer year-round sunshine, stunning vermilion sunsets and a wonderfully natural design. Shura has it all," said Curley, principal of Wagner-Curley Design.
"We expect everyone from professionals to beginners to be drawn to this unique course."
The clubhouse is designed by British architectural firm Foster + Partners, following a "Coral Bloom" concept inspired by Saudi Arabia's flora and fauna.
Environmental impact
To minimise environmental impact, RSG is working with OnCourse to reduce water consumption through turf selection, soil sensors and the POGO turf management system. It is also using foliar feeding with natural nutrients like seaweed.
Just 20% of the 140-hectare site will be maintained turf, with irregular shapes blending into the natural dunescapes, RSG said, adding it aims to create a Habitat Development and Protection Plan to encourage wildlife.
Golf Saudi will manage the course, as Saudi Arabia aims to become "the world's next golf destination", the statement said.
The Red Sea resort, part of Saudi's Vision 2030 economic diversification plan, welcomed its first guests in 2023 and began receiving international flights from Dubai last month.