Introduction
In 2025, Saudi Arabia is taking center stage in regenerative tourism as the world recognizes that our environment is a treasure worth protecting. Through initiatives launched during Saudi Environment Week 2025 and beyond, the Kingdom is showing how travel can actively restore nature rather than merely minimize harm. Here’s how Saudi Arabia is leading the way.
1. Large-Scale Mangrove Restoration Projects
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in mangrove rehabilitation along the Red Sea coastline. Initiatives by organizations like Red Sea Global involve planting thousands of seedlings, boosting marine biodiversity, improving coastal protection, and strengthening carbon sequestration efforts.
2. Thoughtful Development with Marine Spatial Planning
The Red Sea tourism project showcases careful, conservation-first development. Using the region’s largest marine spatial planning exercise, only 22 of 90+ islands are being developed, preserving the majority of fragile ecosystems for future generations.
3. Leading Renewable Energy Adoption in Tourism
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea resorts are powered entirely by renewable energy, including 760,500 solar panels and one of the world’s largest off-grid battery systems. This green energy model supports the Kingdom’s Saudi Green Initiative goals for a sustainable future.
4. Global Leadership at COP16
Saudi Arabia hosted the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (COP16) in Riyadh, securing over $12 billion in pledges for drought and land restoration projects. This demonstrated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental leadership on the global stage.
5. Nature-Based Experiences for Tourists
Visitors to Saudi Arabia can now participate in conservation efforts firsthand, from snorkeling in healthy coral reefs to kayaking through mangroves and even joining habitat restoration activities, making tourism a regenerative force.
6. 30% Net Conservation Target by 2040
Saudi Arabia has committed to achieving a 30% net conservation benefit by 2040. This includes restoring vital ecosystems like coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests to enhance biodiversity and climate resilience across the Kingdom’s tourist destinations.
7. Embedding Regeneration into Tourism Design
Regeneration is not just a project in Saudi Arabia—it’s a core philosophy. From water-efficient landscaping to habitat rehabilitation integrated into resort designs, every tourism development prioritizes long-term environmental benefits over short-term gain.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s leadership in regenerative tourism is redefining global standards for environmental stewardship. As millions of tourists visit each year, the Kingdom shows how responsible development can heal ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and create unforgettable travel experiences. Explore how Saudi Arabia is transforming travel into a force for good—and setting an inspiring example for the world.
Learn more about Saudi Arabia’s bold sustainability initiatives and their 2030 vision.
