Red Sea Global Earns International 'EarthCheck' Sustainability Certification
Red Sea Global announced that it has obtained the internationally recognized Sustainable Destinations certification from EarthCheck for The Red Sea destination.
This certification is awarded to destinations that demonstrate genuine leadership in sustainable tourism. It evaluates overall destination performance across environmental, social, and economic dimensions, rather than assessing hotels or attractions individually. This means that every element of the Red Sea destination—from design and operations to environmental conservation initiatives and the tangible impact on local Red Sea communities—has undergone rigorous evaluation by independent external auditors.
Red Sea Global's Chief Environment and Sustainability Officer Raed Albasseet explained that the EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations program is globally recognized for its rigorous, science-based methodology. Achieving this certification reflects the company's commitment to setting new global benchmarks and confirms that its approach delivers real, measurable benefits for both people and nature.
The EarthCheck report highlighted the company's excellence in several areas where it surpassed global best practice standards. These include energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions, supported by the company’s decision to operate the destination using renewable energy around the clock. The report also praised water conservation efforts through minimal irrigation of natural landscapes, as well as a reduction of approximately 75% in waste sent to landfills compared to best practice benchmarks.
The audit also showcased several initiatives implemented by Red Sea Global that go beyond best practices to benefit local Red Sea communities. These include skills development and education programs such as the Tourism English Program, which equips local residents with the skills needed to access career opportunities in the sector. It also highlighted the company’s “Jawar” app, an interactive platform that shares job opportunities, events, and programs, while enabling residents to provide feedback and share their perspectives.
For his part, Founder and CEO of EarthCheck Stewart Moore affirmed that Red Sea Global is a pioneer in regenerative tourism. This is clearly reflected in initiatives that exceed compliance requirements, including the protection of marine turtles in the Red Sea and providing tangible economic opportunities for local communities, in addition to being the largest destination in the world fully powered by renewable energy.
The Red Sea destination will undergo annual audits starting now. If it demonstrates continuous improvement over the next ten years, it will be awarded Platinum Certification—a distinction achieved by only two destinations worldwide to date.
Red Sea Global welcomed its first guests in 2023. It currently operates 10 resorts, in addition to Red Sea International Airport, which receives regular flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, Milan, Dubai, and Doha. Shura Island, the vibrant heart of The Red Sea destination, also saw the opening of its first resorts and welcomed visitors last year, joining other facilities including the 18-hole championship Shura Links golf course.



