Red Sea Global Collaborates With Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee To Enhance Inclusive Sport And Recreation

Red Sea Global (RSG), known for developing The Red Sea and AMAALA tourism projects, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee (SOPC). Represented by Team Saudi, SOPC is the official identity for Saudi athletes in various international sports events. This collaboration aims to enhance inclusivity in sports and entertainment experiences at RSG's destinations.

The agreement was formalised at RSG's Riyadh headquarters, attended by Nick King, RSG's Group Chief Development Officer, and Bakr Darwish, SOPC's Chief Shared Services and Solutions Officer. The partnership focuses on integrating feedback from Saudi Paralympic athletes to improve accessibility and inclusivity at RSG's destinations. This aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals of fostering a more inclusive society.

Nick King stated, "This agreement supports our aim to develop truly inclusive, world-class destinations that excite and delight all who visit. By engaging with Saudi athletes and learning from their feedback and insights, we will continue to improve our destinations, ensuring that they are enjoyable and accessible for everyone, including Saudi nationals, residents, and international visitors."

The MoU also explores showcasing experiences at Red Sea Global's locations for both elite athletes and amateurs. Joint campaigns during significant events like the International Day for Persons with Disabilities will reinforce the commitment to universal inclusion. The partnership aims to promote active lifestyles among all Saudis, residents, and tourists.

Bakr Darwish expressed that the collaboration not only strengthens national inclusion efforts but also celebrates Team Saudi's unity and ambition. "Together with Red Sea Global, we aim to ensure that every individual, regardless of physical or cognitive abilities, can enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle," he said.

The partnership will leverage the 'Team Saudi' mobile app to boost long-term community engagement. Red Sea Sports & Entertainment (RSSE), an RSG subsidiary managing land and marine activities at The Red Sea destination, will play a crucial role in this initiative through its brands WAMA, Akun, and Galaxea.

Future Developments at The Red Sea

The MoU is set for an initial three-year period with plans for phased development. It builds on RSG's 2023 Pledge to make its destinations accessible for guests with disabilities or specific needs. The Red Sea project welcomed its first visitors in 2023 with five hotels currently operational.

Red Sea International Airport (RSI) offers convenient access within three hours' flight for 250 million people and eight hours' flight for 85% of the global population. Once completed, The Red Sea destination will feature 50 resorts with up to 8,000 hotel rooms across 22 islands and six inland sites.

Upcoming AMAALA Developments

AMAALA is expected to welcome its first guests later this year with over 1,400 hotel rooms across eight luxury resorts. Upon completion, it will offer around 4,000 hotel rooms across 30 hotels along with luxury residential options such as villas and apartments.

The development will include high-end retail outlets, fine dining options, wellness centres, and recreational facilities. These projects reflect RSG's commitment to creating inclusive environments that cater to diverse visitor needs while promoting active lifestyles.

With inputs from SPA