STA targets Mediterranean’s luxury yachting market with Red Sea’s luxury shores
Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has launched the Super Yacht Arabia campaign to promote the Red Sea as a compelling alternative to established yachting hotspots in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
Unveiled during the Monaco Yacht Show, STA CEO Fahd Hamidaddin said the Saudi Red Sea is “ready to welcome the global yachting community” having invested more than SAR84 billion (US$22.4 billion) in infrastructure and developments including The Red Sea and Amaala.
With a coastline on the Red Sea stretching more than 1,800 kilometres, Saudi is well positioned to tap the luxury yachting community due to its climate and strategic location, plus luxurious coastal resorts and abundant wildlife.
Targeting global superyacht operators, luxury cruise lines and high-net-worth travellers, the campaign aims to highlight the Red Sea’s unique selling points: pristine coral reefs, secluded private islands, state-of-the-art marinas and world-class accommodation.
The offering will include bespoke experiences for yacht owners, including tailored itineraries, exclusive access to curated regattas and major international maritime events.
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The Red Sea, a regenerative tourism destination developed by Red Sea Global (RSG), features iconic island resorts including Shebara and the newly-opened Shura Island, which will have 11 hotels and a marina once fully completed.
Upcoming wellness destination Amaala, also from RSG, has the Amaala Yacht Club as a centrepiece of the development. The four-storey club features a 120-berth marina and can accommodate yachting events and regattas.
Amaala is also due to host the finale of The Ocean Race Europe in 2027, a first for the Red Sea.
Saudi Arabia is doubling down on tourism opportunities at sea. Launched in December 2024, Aroya Cruises has recently returned to Saudi waters after a successful season in the Mediterranean.
This marks the Saudi-born line’s second Red Sea season and the introduction of its Arabian Gulf itineraries aboard the 3,400-passenger ship Aroya.
High spending yacht owners are flooding to the region. Earlier this month, Dubai reported a 149% jump in foreign yacht arrivals in the first half of 2025 at the city’s marinas.
For more information, visit sta.gov.sa