Red Sea Global (RSG) has signed a significant agreement with Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) and daa International, the operator of Red Sea International (RSI) airport. SAUDIA is set to be the inaugural airline to operate from RSI, a milestone expected to happen this year.
SAUDIA Red Sea International airport flights
Initially, RSI will serve domestic flights connecting Riyadh and later Jeddah before expanding to international flights in 2024.
“In 2016, His Royal Highness, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, set out a vision for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A vision for a thriving country, one that was recognized as a global hub, where people from all around the world would come to experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality and nature,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.
“When the first commercial flight lands at Red Sea International, it won’t just be a point of personal pride for Red Sea Global. It will be a milestone moment for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in making that vision a reality. It is fitting, therefore, that the Kingdom’s flag carrier, SAUDIA, will be first to operate from our destination,” said John Pagano, Group CEO, Red Sea Global.”
New chapter in Saudi Arabia’s aviation history
Capt. Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, said: “Today’s agreement marks a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s aviation history. As wings of Vision 2030, SAUDIA’s contribution is to be an enabler in attaining giga projects targets, and our involvement as the first airline to operate from and to Red Sea International airport is a source of pride for us all. This agreement will strengthen our position in the Kingdom and allow us to collaborate with RSG and daa International to boost tourism and enhance the country’s standing within international aviation.”
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This collaboration paves the way for SAUDIA to establish regular scheduled services to and from RSI. Additionally, the agreement outlines plans for joint research on Lower Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) utilization at the airport. The possibility of employing electric vertical take-off and landing jets (eVTOL) to reduce emissions will also be explored.
Red Sea International is a new gateway
Mr. Nicholas Cole, CEO of daa International, said: “Red Sea International is a new gateway for travellers to experience the wonders of Saudi Arabia. Bringing our unmatched airport management expertise, we will work with RSG and SAUDIA to ensure RSI delivers a truly unique experience for all who pass through it.”
The Red Sea destination is set to see the opening of three resorts this year, coinciding with the inauguration of the initial phase of RSI. Further expansion in the first phase will include 13 hotels. Ultimately, upon completion in 2030, this ambitious project will encompass 50 resorts, offering over 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. The destination will also feature luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, dining options, and leisure facilities.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
