Red Sea Global brings SAF to Saudi Arabia for 1st time
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Real-estate developer Red Sea Global announced Feb. 26 a deal to bring sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to Saudi Arabia for the first time.
RSG and DAA International, the operator of the Red Sea International Airport (RSI), struck the deal with the airport’s fuel supplier, Arabian Petroleum Supply Co.
Airlines operating at RSI now have the option of refueling using SAF.
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RSI’s SAF supply is blended at 35 percent SAF and 65 percent standard Jet A1, which in turn reduces the produced carbon emissions resulting directly from each aircraft that uses this fuel by up to 35 percent, according to RSG.
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“Travel is a way to bridge cultures, broaden horizons and regenerate the mind, body and soul,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global. “But travel has a cost, especially for our planet. That is why we promised to transform the industry, moving it towards a sustainable, regenerative future. By bringing sustainable aviation fuel into the kingdom, we are dramatically reducing our guests’ personal carbon footprint from the moment they arrive and even after they leave. More than this, we’re supporting the wider aviation sector to start making choices that are better for the environment.”
As part of its ambition to achieve net zero, RSG’s subsidiary air operator, Fly Red Sea, which provides seaplane transfer, charter and scenic tour services across its destinations, will refuel its fleet exclusively with fuels that ensure aviation is more sustainable such as SAF and lower-carbon aviation fuel (LCAF).
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“Introducing sustainable aviation fuel at Red Sea International Airport marks a significant milestone in our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability,” said Michael White, RSI’s chief commercial officer. “This groundbreaking initiative not only reduces carbon emissions but also aligns with our broader mission to protect the Red Sea’s unique and fragile ecosystem.”
The Red Sea welcomed its first guests in 2023, with five of its hotels now open.
RSI has been receiving a regular schedule of domestic flights since September 2023 and international flights began in April 2024, with a twice-weekly route between The Red Sea and Dubai International.
Upon full completion in 2030, the destination will comprise 50 resorts, offering up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites.
The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, entertainment and leisure facilities.