The Red Sea, extending out from the western coast of Saudi Arabia, has transformed itself into a significant tourism hotspot through the pioneering vision of master developer Red Sea Global. Combining sustainability and luxury into a uniquely harmonious blend, a pristine Saudi archipelago is evolving into the destination of the future.
The anchor point for the new Red Sea project is Shura Island, a naturally dolphin-shaped landmass that is the setting for 11 branded resorts and exceptional residential projects complemented by a plethora of lifestyle experiences. A key component of that lifestyle is the Shura Links Golf Club, a first-of-it-kind island golfing experience in the region which opened for play in September 2025. The club is an excellent addition to the Middle East’s golfing portfolio and a showcase for the diversity of Shura Island’s landscape.
Green in More Ways Than One
Designed by acclaimed golf architect Brian Curley of Curley-Wagner Golf Design and managed by Golf Saudi, the golf course at Shura Links provides a unique playing experience for players of all skill levels. Curley took full advantage of Shura Island’s unique topography when designing the course and, in line with RSG’s sustainability goals, made sure to not disrupt the island’s native flora or fauna in the process. Richard Haas, Executive Director of Red Sea Global and himself an experienced golf architect, oversaw the construction and landscaping work of the course.
The result is an 18-hole par-72 course that spans 7,400 yards from the standard tee positions, with the possibility of extending the playing area to 7,700 yards. High-performance Platinum TE Papsalum turf is used throughout, known for its drought-resistance, salt-tolerance, and rich dark green appearance. This type of turf is also resistant to wear, grows well in low light conditions and has a quick recovery time, allowing for regular use over a longer term. A Toro irrigation system keeps the turf in excellent condition throughout the year while maximising water efficiency.
Each hole on the course is visually distinct, framed by pristine white dunes, lush mangroves, or the contours of the coastline and the azure waters beyond. The course seemingly blends into the landscape, a deliberate choice by Curley so that the vistas across the island remain uninterrupted and unmarred. Open expanses also help with easy ball recovery, as Curley has witnessed too many desert courses that punish players with areas of thick vegetation.
Sustainability extends to the design of the clubhouse as well. Conceptualised by Foster + Partners, the master architects of the Red Sea project, it follows their ‘Coral Bloom’ design vision, which draws inspiration from indigenous plant species and natural formations to create unique silhouettes. The clubhouse is made up of five lightweight structures clustered around a central courtyard, resembling the petals of a blossoming flower when seen from above. Set along the coastline, it offers views over the 18th green and various lifestyle experiences.
A Premium Experience
While the course at Shura Links will provide a solid challenge for the most seasoned players, the golf club is designed to offer a richer experience for everyone. A putting course located adjacent to the clubhouse is designed for families to enjoy a fun day out, with excellent playability for all ages and skill levels. Two returning nines also extend out from the clubhouse, offering the flexibility of playing individual nine-hole circuits or a full 18-hole game.
Skills can be honed on the expansive practice course or the putting green, and novice players can take advantage of instruction from PGA-qualified coaches.
After a day out on the greens, guests of Shura Links can head into the magnificent clubhouse, which has curated retail boutiques selling a variety of golf merchandise. They can also indulge in fine dining or unwind at the clubhouse pool.
The Beating Heart of the Red Sea
Shura Links is just one part of an entire ecosystem that is coming together on Shura Island, the anchor point of the Red Sea archipelago being developed by Red Sea Global.
As the destination’s main lifestyle hub, the island will have a total of 11 world-class resorts by the end of 2026, with the first three slated to open by the end of 2025. Some of the leading names in hospitality, such as SLS, Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton will operate hotels and will also offer limited residential collections. North American wellness brand Miraval and the UAE’s award-winning Jumeirah Group will mark their first forays in the Kingdom as well.
Apart from its resort and residential components, Shura Island will offer a comprehensive family lifestyle defined by leisure and relaxation. The Shura Links golf club will be one component of that, along with a marine centre where residents and visitors can explore a variety of water-based activities including deep sea diving amongst the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs. A yacht marina is set on one side of the island, as well as a waterfront retail and entertainment centre. Additionally, visitors to the island will have the opportunity to learn all about the sustainability initiatives of the Red Sea and to discover the marine ecosystem.
The Future of Sustainable Tourism
An integral part of Saudi Vision 2030, The Red Sea is a sprawling megaproject that will feature resorts and residences masterfully blending design ambition with an eco-conscious, sustainable approach. Of the 90 islands clustered around the Saudi Arabian coast, only 22 are being developed, along with 6 onshore destinations. The remainder of the island will be designated as conservation zones to maintain the integrity of the ecosystem. All of the development taking place on Shura Island and other parts of the Red Sea is fully sustainable, and visitor numbers to the area are expected to be capped annually to reduce the impact of human habitation.
Shura Island is situated just 25 minutes from Red Sea International Airport on the mainland. A dedicated fleet of electric cars provides access on and off the island, adding to its sustainable footprint. The Red Sea is roughly one hour and a half away from both Jeddah and Riyadh, and roughly 85% of the world is within an 8-hour flight, making it a truly global destination.
