Red Sea Global has announced that the first resorts and attractions on recently created Shura Island will open in the coming weeks, development blog Nemnna reported on September 15.

The Saudi government has doubled efforts to turn the country into a tourism destination along the Tarbuk province's coastline along the Red Sea, but has faced ongoing issues, including a struggling global luxury tourism market and strict rules inside the country, which have cooled potential groups of visitors.

The phase one launch includes SLS, EDITION and InterContinental hotels alongside Shura Links, Saudi Arabia's first island golf course. The dolphin-shaped island was designed by Foster + Partners under the "Coral Bloom" concept inspired by surrounding coral reefs.

Group Chief Executive John Pagano said: "With the soft opening of Shura in the coming weeks, we move closer to achieving our mission to set new standards in regenerative tourism, while realising Vision 2030," he said.

SLS Red Sea offers 150 rooms and villas. The Red Sea EDITION provides 240 rooms, including 53 suites, whilst InterContinental The Red Sea Resort features 178 rooms and 32 suites with five dining venues.

Eight additional resorts will open in the coming months, including Faena, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah, Miraval, Raffles and Rosewood. When complete, the island will host 11 world-class resorts.

Shura Links golf course combines challenge, design and sustainability with innovative water management and eco-friendly practices. The course blends natural desert landscapes with lush fairways whilst offering spectacular coastal views.

The island also offers residential properties, with first handovers scheduled for end-2025. The entire development operates on renewable energy as part of regenerative tourism principles.

Red Sea Global estimates its destinations will create 120,000 new jobs whilst driving economic growth and sustainable development across the region.