Red Sea Global Launches Saudi Arabia’s Second Water Aerodome

Red Sea Global (RSG) has launched the second water aerodome in Saudi Arabia.

On Thursday, August 29, the real estate development company obtained its second license to operate a water aerodome. Aerodomes are an open area of water for the arrival and departure of seaplanes and other amphibious aircraft.

Opening Shebara to the world

General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej handed RSG CEO John Pagano the operating license. Also present at the ceremony was Minister of Transport and Logistics, His Excellency Saleh Al-Jasser.

Pagano remarked, “This license is one of the final stepping stones toward opening Shebara to the world. Soon, guests will be arriving by seaplane to this iconic resort in anticipation of enjoying a truly peerless escape.”

In addition, Pagano also spoke about Red Sea Global’s privileged position to be able to operate two water aerodomes.

“As owners of the Kingdom’s first seaplane airline and its only two water aerodromes up until now, we are firmly establishing ourselves as leaders within tourism and aviation,” he said.

Red Sea Global’s second aerodome will serve, in particular, the Shebara resort, on Sheybarah Island. Shebara is famous for its 30 to 40-meter reef drop-offs near the beach. To reach the island, guests must travel for 30 minutes by boat or 20 minutes by seaplane.

The resort is also popular for “reflective overwater orbs” or stainless steel villas that reflect the colors of the sea. Because it is by the reef, it also makes for an excellent diving spot.

Red Sea Global’s first water aerodome

Operating the kingdom’s second water aerodome supports the GACA’s aviation transformation program, increasing competition and investment in the industry. It also promotes the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, such as enhanced connectivity and greater aviation infrastructure.

It was in 2023 when Red Sea Global obtained its license to operate the first water aerodome. This aerodome was at Ummahat Island, on which the exclusive Ummahat resort sits. The resort is famous for its coral reefs, white-sand beaches, as well as diving and water sports facilities.

This first aerodome seves guests traveling to and from the St. Regis Resort and Nujuma, a Ritz Carlton reserve. For the first half of 2024, it has served over 520 flights with 1,200 passengers. Moving forward, Red Sea Global hopes to transport 3,800 passengers by the end of the year. RSG also plans to link the St. Regis resort and Nujuma to other Red Sea destinations.

Fly Red Sea and the SCHF Partnership

It was also in 2023 when Red Sea Global announced that it was launching Fly Red Sea. Fly Red Sea is Saudi Arabia’s first seaplane company and water aerodome operator. It hopes to operate fully electric seaplanes and it also aims to pioneer the use of hydrogen-electric propulsion technology.

Apart from luxury tourism, Red Sea Global also promotes adventure tourism. In July 2024, it announced its partnership with the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation for various hiking and climbing events.

Photo: X/Red Sea Global