Image Source: Visit Saudi
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast is fast emerging as one of the world’s most captivating family travel destinations. With pristine marine ecosystems, futuristic resorts, and curated experiences for all age groups, the region is redefining luxury tourism with a family-first lens. From overwater bungalows to coral reef adventures, the Red Sea’s newest resorts offer a blend of nature, culture, and comfort that’s hard to match.
Key highlights from the Red Sea tourism boom
1. Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Project is set to feature 50 resorts and over 8,000 rooms by 2030, with 16 luxury hotels opening by the end of 2025
2. The region’s appeal lies in its untouched coral reefs, private islands, and year-round sunshine, making it ideal for family vacations
3. Resorts like Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and The St. Regis Red Sea have already opened on the Ummahat Islands, offering exclusive family-friendly amenities
4. Shura Island, the central hub of the Red Sea development, will host 11 luxury hotels including Four Seasons, Faena, and Edition Hotels
Top family-friendly resorts and experiences
1. Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- Located on Ummahat Islands, this ultra-luxury resort offers spacious overwater bungalows with private pools
- Families can enjoy snorkeling, marine discovery tours, and curated stargazing experiences inspired by the resort’s name, which means stars in Arabic
- The minimalist design blends desert hues with oceanic serenity, creating a calming environment for both adults and children
2. The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
- Also on Ummahat Islands, this resort features private butler service, family suites, and wellness-focused amenities
- Activities include coral reef diving, paddleboarding, and desert excursions tailored for all age groups
- Dining options cater to diverse palates, with kid-friendly menus and gourmet experiences for parents
3. Four Seasons Resort at Shura Island
- Scheduled to open in late 2025, this resort will offer 149 rooms and suites with unobstructed views of the Red Sea
- Facilities include tennis courts, three outdoor pools, and two beaches—one for families and one adults-only
- The Kids For All Seasons program will provide supervised activities, allowing parents to relax or explore
Adventure and nature for all ages
1. Coral reef diving and snorkeling are among the most popular family activities, with guided tours available at most resorts
2. Kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing offer safe and exciting options for older children and teens
3. Desert hikes and mountain biking excursions provide land-based adventure, with scenic trails and cultural storytelling
4. Night diving and marine bioluminescence tours offer a magical experience for families seeking something extraordinary
Wellness and relaxation
1. Resorts like Six Senses Southern Dunes and AMAALA’s upcoming properties focus on holistic wellness, with spa treatments, hammams, and yoga sessions
2. Parents can unwind while children engage in supervised play or educational nature walks
3. Wellness escapes are designed to restore balance, with packages that include massages, nutrition workshops, and mindfulness sessions
Accessibility and infrastructure
1. The Red Sea International Airport is nearing completion, offering direct access to the resort islands
2. Fly Red Sea seaplane tours provide breathtaking aerial views and convenient transfers between resorts
3. Sustainability is a core focus, with resorts built to preserve marine life and minimize environmental impact
What’s next for family travel in Saudi Arabia
1. With more resorts opening each quarter, families will have increasing options for tailored experiences
2. Cultural integration is key, with resorts offering Arabic language classes, local cuisine tastings, and heritage tours
3. Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy aims to welcome 100 million visitors annually by 2030, with family travel as a central pillar
Sources: Dream Overwater, What’s On Saudi Arabia, Visit Red Sea Official Portal
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