Saudi Arabia unveils its first island golf course, fusing sustainable play with luxury coastal living.
Red Sea Global (RSG), the visionary developer behind The Red Sea and AMAALA, has officially launched Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course. Located on Shura Island at The Red Sea, the project is a milestone in the Kingdom’s ambition to position itself as a global hub for sports, luxury tourism, and regenerative development.
Designed by world-renowned golf architect Brian Curley and managed by Golf Saudi, the par-72, 7,400-yard course offers a true coastal links experience. The layout winds across dunes, native mangroves, and shoreline landscapes, combining world-class design with the island’s natural topography. Built with minimal environmental interference, it reflects RSG’s commitment to sustainability and regeneration.
“The opening of Shura Links is a landmark achievement in the Kingdom’s pursuit of global leadership in sports and tourism. It reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and underscores PIF’s commitment to unlocking new sectors that diversify our economy and elevate quality of life. Situated at the heart of The Red Sea, Shura Links is more than a world-class golf course, it is a powerful realization of how this unique destination can be transformed into an engine for investment, luxury tourism, and sustainable opportunities for future generations,” said H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Chairman of Golf Saudi.
A Social Hub on the Shoreline
At the heart of Shura Links lies its beachfront clubhouse, a vibrant hub for golfers and visitors alike. With panoramic views over the 18th green, the clubhouse draws inspiration from local flora and fauna while offering elevated dining, boutique retail, and serene relaxation areas.
“Shura Links sets a new benchmark for the game of golf in the region. It’s more than just a course, it’s a place to connect, challenge yourself, and experience the full beauty of The Red Sea. This is another proud milestone in our mission to reshape global tourism through sustainability and design, and a significant step in building Red Sea Global’s diverse sports portfolio, aligning perfectly with Vision 2030’s goal of establishing Saudi Arabia as a premier global sporting destination,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.
A Premium Golfing Experience
Shura Links is not just a course, but a complete destination for players of all levels. Its features include:
- Family-friendly adventure putting course, suitable for all ages
- Premium Callaway practice balls, as used on professional tours
- A curated boutique offering leading golf brands and merchandise
- Elevated clubhouse dining, both indoors and poolside
- Expansive grass practice facilities, including a short-game area
- Tailored green fee options for 9- and 18-hole play
- PGA-qualified professional coaching for individuals, families, and groups
Brian Curley, Principal of Curley-Wagner Golf Design, explained: “From the onset, Shura Links was designed to blend seamlessly with its natural, brilliant white, sand dunes surroundings, while delivering a one-of-a-kind golf experience. It’s a course built to challenge seasoned pros from the tournament tees, yet the ‘find your ball’ theme is also inviting for those trying golf for the first time. With Shura Links opening its doors, golfers from around the world can experience its unique character and world-class design.”
A Landmark Destination
Shura Island is the beating heart of The Red Sea destination, which is set to welcome guests in phases over the coming weeks. The initial phase introduces global luxury brands such as SLS, EDITION, and InterContinental, with further hotels including Faena, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah, Miraval, Raffles, and Rosewood soon to follow.
Shura Island will also feature exclusive residences, with the first homes already announced and expected for handover in 2025. Residents and visitors alike will enjoy pristine beaches, cultural programming, and access to some of the world’s most iconic resorts.
Accessibility is provided through Red Sea International Airport (RSI), which connects to major global hubs. Within three hours’ flying time of 250 million people and eight hours for 85% of the world’s population, RSI is fast becoming a gateway to global tourism. Qatar Airways will soon operate direct flights three times a week, with more international routes expected.
Noah Alireza, CEO of Golf Saudi, summed up the significance: “Through our close partnership with Red Sea Global, we reaffirm our commitment to building an integrated investment environment that positions Saudi Arabia as a premier destination where natural beauty, innovation, and sustainability converge. Shura Links is not only a showcase of this vision, but also a foundational touchpoint in creating the Kingdom’s golf tourism trail, an entryway for international visitors to experience Saudi Arabia’s growing stature as a world-class tourism hub. It stands as an inspiration to golf enthusiasts, investors, and decision-makers around the globe.”
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