Red Sea Global (RSG) has unveiled a new partnership with the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation (SCHF) aimed at enhancing adventure tourism across the Red Sea region. This collaboration will be driven by Akun, RSG’s adventure sports brand, which oversees all hiking, climbing, and adventure activities at RSG’s destinations. The partnership is set to enrich the guest experience at The Red Sea and provide training and certification pathways for climbing and hiking guides.
Nicholas King, Group Chief Development Officer at RSG, commented, “Modern luxury tourism increasingly combines adventure with comfort. Our alliance with the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation allows Akun to deliver exhilarating experiences while maintaining the high standards of safety and professionalism. Together, we’re advancing adventure tourism across the Red Sea region.”
SCHF, the national governing body for rock climbing and mountaineering in Saudi Arabia, will collaborate with Akun to offer SCHF trainees practical experience through work placements and internships. In exchange, SCHF will provide qualified trainers for temporary support and permanent recruitment.
Yasmin Gahtani, Managing Director at SCHF, stated, “Saudi Arabia boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, particularly along the Red Sea coast. We aim to showcase this dramatic terrain through thrilling yet safe climbing and hiking experiences. This partnership will help position Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea as essential destinations for avid climbers, hikers, and adventure seekers.”
The collaboration will activate RSG’s destinations with a variety of local, regional, and international events. Climbing competitions, hiking events, and festivals will spotlight the natural beauty and adventure offerings of the Red Sea region, attracting both domestic and global audiences and creating business opportunities for local communities and the tourism sector.
Furthermore, SCHF will provide technical and safety assessment services to ensure RSG’s new developments meet international safety and sustainability standards. This expertise will be crucial in certifying RSG’s projects as world-class adventure destinations.
RSG and SCHF are also working on creating hiking and climbing resources for the Red Sea region. These resources will offer information on trails, climbing sites, logistics, and safety guidelines, promoting the Red Sea as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts globally.
Last year, The Red Sea welcomed its first guests, with three of its hotels now operational. RSI has been receiving a steady flow of domestic flights since September 2023, and international flights began in April 2024, including a twice-weekly route between The Red Sea and Dubai International. By 2030, the destination is set to feature 50 resorts, up to 8,000 hotel rooms, and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. It will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment, dining, and leisure facilities.
