Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind Saudi Arabia's ambitious Red Sea and Amaala destinations, has published the findings of one of the most comprehensive terrestrial biodiversity studies ever undertaken by a development company. The report, conducted in partnership with the University of Porto, not only establishes an ecological baseline for the region but also reveals the discovery of several species potentially new to science.
The "Terrestrial Spatial Habitats Assessment for Biodiversity Conservation" surveyed more than 120 terrestrial sites, spanning over 13,000km² of deserts, volcanic fields, wetlands, and mountain ecosystems. The fieldwork identified a scorpion, two species of gecko, and a small mammal that may be previously unrecorded. This finding is particularly significant given the historical lack of biological knowledge of the region and challenges the perception of deserts as having low biodiversity. The study forms the scientific foundation for RSG's commitment to regenerative tourism, a model that seeks not just to minimize environmental impact but to actively enhance and restore local ecosystems. John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, stated that by embedding this level of scientific research into the planning process, the company is proving that luxury tourism and environmental preservation can be compatible. The discoveries and the wider findings of the survey will guide RSG's land-use and conservation strategies, informing development decisions as the destinations continue to progress. This project also supports RSG's commitment to achieving a 30% net conservation gain by 2040, a goal that aims to ensure the region's habitats are more abundant and of higher quality after development than before. In addition to the new species, the report identified 11 local Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) across the Red Sea and Amaala, which are now being integrated into master planning and ecotourism strategies. This effort aims to protect species of local conservation concern, such as the Arabian Woodpecker and the Nubian Ibex, and to position these hotspots as key ecotourism destinations. The project highlights a growing collaboration between conservation science and the tourism industry, providing a model for sustainable development globally.