New Milan–RSI service strengthens access to world-leading luxury and regenerative tourism destinations.
Red Sea Global (RSG), the visionary developer behind The Red Sea and AMAALA, celebrated a major milestone with the arrival of the first-ever direct flight from Europe to Red Sea International Airport (RSI). Operated by beOnd, the world’s first premium leisure airline, the inaugural flight from Milan landed on November 12, marking a significant advancement in Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing tourism landscape and its broader Vision 2030 objectives.
The new route creates a seamless travel link between Europe and the Kingdom’s most ambitious luxury and regenerative tourism destinations. Travelers can expect beOnd’s signature premium experience aboard its A320-family aircraft featuring all lie-flat seating, paired with RSI’s world-class, sustainability-driven design.
The launch was commemorated at the TOURISE Global Tourism Summit in Riyadh, where RSG and beOnd formalized their partnership in the presence of key aviation and tourism stakeholders.
John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, remarked: “The launch of this direct route from Milan marks a defining moment for Red Sea Global and our destinations. It not only strengthens our connection with Europe, but also reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering extraordinary, luxury experiences. Together with our partners at beOnd, we are opening a new gateway to the Saudi Red Sea coast, ushering in the next chapter of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 journey.”
RSI, operated by daa International serves as the aviation gateway to The Red Sea and AMAALA. Developed with sustainability at its core, RSI and RSG’s wider destinations support the Kingdom’s renewed target to attract 150 million visitors by 2030, up from the original 100 million goal. Tourism’s contribution to national GDP has already increased from 3% to 7% since Vision 2030 was introduced.
Tero Taskila, CEO and Chairman of beOnd, added: “We’re proud to be the first airline connecting Milan directly to The Red Sea and AMAALA. These destinations align perfectly with beOnd’s vision for premium leisure travel. We appreciate the support from aviation authorities in both Saudi Arabia and Italy, as well as STA, ACP, RSI, and SEA Milan Airports, for enabling this historic route.”
The service will operate twice weekly, offering travelers direct access to one of the world’s most innovative, eco-centric tourism corridors.
Andrew Tyler-Smith, CEO of RSI, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome beOnd as the first airline offering direct service from Europe to The Red Sea and AMAALA. As RSI’s network expands, we are honored to partner with airlines that share our commitment to excellence and global connectivity.”
Both The Red Sea and AMAALA are powered entirely by 100% renewable energy, underscoring RSG’s dedication to generating a 30% net conservation benefit to local ecosystems by 2040. The Red Sea destination now features nine luxury hotels currently welcoming guests, alongside Thuwal Private Retreat near Jeddah. This week, RSG also announced the forthcoming launch of AMAALA Triple Bay, which will introduce six world-class luxury resorts, a yacht club, marine life institute, advanced marina, and a vibrant Marina Village.
Discover the next era of luxury, sustainability, and world-class hospitality at the Saudi Red Sea coast.