Red Sea Global has begun operations at Amaala Yacht Club on Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast, opening a 119-berth marina that can accommodate superyachts over 100 metres, Emerging Travel reported on September 15.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) developer is targeting owners who leave the Mediterranean from October for the Caribbean or the Indian Ocean, with Amaala positioned closer to the Mediterranean than either.

However, that route depends on vessels transiting the Red Sea, where Houthi forces declared a maritime embargo on Saudi shipping in July and have struck tankers and port infrastructure, driving up war risk premiums across the basin.

Amaala lies in the far north, above the Bab al-Mandab approaches where the attacks have concentrated in recent weeks.

The marina operates as a full international port of entry, with fuelling available and maintenance and repair facilities to follow. Berthing and mooring fees are set at levels comparable with leading European marinas, and owners taking permanent moorings receive privileges through selected resort partners.

The 7,900 square metre clubhouse, designed by HKS Architects, holds dining and social venues, a rooftop pool and private meeting suites. An academy at the club will run sailing programmes and watersports.

"The Amaala Yacht Club marks the emergence of a truly global yachting destination," said John Pagano, group chief executive of Red Sea Global.

The club will be the centrepiece of the grand finale of The Ocean Race in 2027 and will host international yachting events through the year.

Resorts already open at Amaala include Four Seasons, Six Senses, Rosewood, Equinox and Nammos, with two more due in coming months.

The site is 45 minutes from Alwajh International Airport, where Red Sea Global has been running terminal and infrastructure upgrades, and the club runs entirely on renewable energy.