WAMA and Galaxea will lead the water-based experiences at Red Sea Global’s tourism destinations.
Both Amaala and The Red Sea have been dubbed some of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, and they only continue to evolve. Multi-project developer Red Sea Global (RSG) has announced that two new watersports and diving brands, WAMA and Galaxea, are set to deliver exciting guest experiences at RSG destinations. WAMA will be responsible for creating watersport experiences such as kayaking, SUP, and sailing. Galaxea, meanwhile, will deliver unique diving adventures that will offer guests the chance to discover one of the world’s largest – and least – explored coral reefs.
“Whether it’s kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, foiling, kite surfing, sailing, or exploring the Red Sea’s incredible submarine world, WAMA and Galaxea will create extraordinary moments and beautiful memories that last a lifetime,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “What’s more, these brands have been created with sustainability at their core and will continue to build on our ambition to deliver a regenerative approach to tourism development and operations. It is our hope that eventually they will become standalone brands operating at destinations around the world.”
In line with this approach, Galaxea is working closely with Saudi Water Sports & Diving Federation, alongside PADI International, to ensure that all diving facilities operated by Galaxea lead in regenerative tourism standards and set the blueprint for future diving development around the world. All guest experiences will be in line with the Red Sea Adventure Program, an initiative that is being developed to preserve places of great natural beauty within The Red Sea and Amaala. Led by RSG’s scientists, guests will be able to explore and learn about the diverse ecosystems and how they are impacted by light, sound and climate change.
Last year, an 11-month long research study of the Al Wajh lagoon revealed an exceptionally rich diversity of habitats, flora and fauna. These include a significant number of endangered and critically endangered species such as the Halavi Guitarfish, Hawksbill Sea Turtle, and Sooty Falcon as well as a thriving, eight-metre-high single coral colony estimated to be around 600 years old. The Red Sea is home to 280 species of fish, turtles, dugongs, dolphins and sharks as well as numerous sea birds and 314 species of coral. It is hoped that future divers will also be able to explore an 18th century ‘merchantman’ shipwreck that is currently the best-preserved wooden shipwreck in The Red Sea. The site boasts a spectacular cargo of jars, porcelain and spices, a testament to the history of trading activities in the region.
Other guest experiences rooted in nature will include astrophotography, full-moon hiking, bird counting, seeding the mangroves, and monitoring turtle hatching. Three resorts at The Red Sea will open this year along with the first phase of the Red Sea International Airport. A further 13 hotels will open in 2024, and the destination will comprise 50 resorts upon full completion in 2030, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and over 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, F&B, and leisure facilities.
GO: Visit www.redseaglobal.com for more information.
