In recent years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has drawn global attention through its ambitious projects under Vision 2030. Among these is the Amaala project, a luxury tourism destination currently being built on the northwestern coast of the country, along the Red Sea. This project not only aims to attract millions of visitors from around the world but also seeks to integrate high-end tourism with environmental sustainability, offering a new model that balances urban development and natural conservation.
This article explores the key aspects of Amaala, including its geographical location, architectural features, environmental goals, development plans, and its expected economic and social impact.
Location and Architectural Design of Amaala
The Amaala project is located on the northwestern coastline of Saudi Arabia, about 50 kilometers north of Yanbu. The site is known for its stunning natural beauty, with clear blue waters stretching across the horizon — making it an ideal setting for eco-tourism.
Images from ongoing construction show modern white dome-shaped buildings equipped with cranes indicating active development. The design integrates green spaces, palm trees, and open-air areas, reflecting the project’s emphasis on harmonizing with the surrounding environment.
Ambitious Environmental Goals
Beyond luxury tourism, Amaala places a strong focus on environmental sustainability. Key goals include:
- 100% renewable energy use : The project is designed to operate with zero carbon emissions.
- Net positive environmental benefit of 30% by 2040 : Through land rehabilitation and replanting mangroves and seagrass beds.
- Marine life protection : With the establishment of the Corallium Marine Life Institute, which combines scientific research with educational visitor experiences aimed at preserving coral reefs and rare marine species.
According to Vision 2030’s official website, “Projects like Amaala demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s commitment to transitioning its economy toward sustainable sources while protecting the environment and biodiversity.”
Project Development Stages
Work on Amaala started several years ago and follows a well-defined plan divided into clear phases:
| Phase | Expected Year | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 2025 | Opening of 8 luxury resorts |
| Partial opening | 2024 | Thuwal Private Retreat |
| Full completion | 2030 | 30 resorts + infrastructure & facilities |
Economic and Social Impact
In addition to its environmental benefits, Amaala will bring significant economic and social contributions:
- Contribution to GDP : The project is expected to add nearly SAR 11 billion annually to the national economy.
- Job creation : It will generate up to 50,000 direct and indirect jobs, supporting one of Vision 2030’s key objectives.
- Education and sports development : The project includes international schools offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program in partnership with SEK International Schools, as well as collaboration with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee to promote sports and recreation.
Unique Features That Set Amaala Apart
Amaala includes several unique elements that distinguish it from other tourist destinations:
- The Marina Village : A large marina complex featuring a yacht club, shops, cafes, and the Corallium Institute.
- Scientific discoveries :Researchers discovered massive coral reefs within the project area, creating opportunities for new scientific studies and offering visitors a unique diving experience.
- Use of IoT technology : To improve resource management and reduce waste, reinforcing the concept of a “circular blue economy.”
Amaala’s Role in Transforming Saudi Tourism
Amaala is part of a broader strategy to develop tourism in Saudi Arabia, alongside major initiatives such as the Red Sea Project. These efforts aim to:
- Increase the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP.
- Attract over 100 million visitors annually by 2030.
- Position the Kingdom as a leading sustainable tourism destination.
Conclusion
Amaala is not just a luxury resort — it introduces a new approach that combines urban development with environmental sustainability. The project will open its first phase in 2025. Developers aim to establish it as a regional benchmark and a driving force for economic and social transformation in Saudi Arabia.
