Saudi Arabia's First 18-Hole Golf Course, Shura Links, To Launch In 2025

Red Sea Global (RSG) has announced the opening of Shura Links, an 18-hole golf course and clubhouse, set to grace Shura Island in the Red Sea by 2025. This development marks Saudi Arabia's entry into the realm of premier golfing destinations, featuring the nation's first full-length golf course. The project promises not only to offer breathtaking views of the marina and the Red Sea but also to adhere to the highest sustainability standards in its construction and maintenance.

John Pagano, CEO of RSG, emphasized the dual focus of providing an exceptional golfing experience while upholding environmental values. "Shura Links will provide an unparalleled golfing experience, offering a visually stunning, natural course right here on the Red Sea. As ever, it is not enough for us to provide spectacular experiences and world-class playing conditions. We are committed to ensuring that Shura Links aligns with our ambition to set new sustainability standards," Pagano stated. The course is being developed with innovative approaches to turf management and water reuse, aiming to enhance local ecosystems.

The design of the clubhouse, a work by Foster and Partners, aligns with the Coral Bloom concept also seen throughout Shura Island. It draws inspiration from the unique flora and fauna of Saudi Arabia, creating a seamless integration with the natural environment. The golf course itself is a collaboration with renowned architect Brian Curley, known for his work on Mission Hills Golf Club, the world's largest golf facility.

Spanning 6,858 meters, the par 72 course offers a variety of tees at each hole to cater to players of all skill levels. Notably, holes four through seven offer coastal views, while the final holes present stunning vistas of open sea or channel. The design incorporates elements that make it accessible for beginners while still challenging enough for competitive play. This balance opens up possibilities for hosting major golfing events in the future.

Additionally, the course will feature a two-acre putting course anticipated to be among the best globally. With its strategic location next to the clubhouse and its design that encourages both playability and memorability, Shura Links is poised to become a cornerstone of golf in Saudi Arabia.

The initiative by RSG not only enriches Saudi Arabia's sporting landscape but also sets a new standard in eco-conscious luxury tourism. As construction progresses, with turfing already underway, anticipation builds for what promises to be a world-class golfing destination upon its completion in 2025.

With inputs from SPA