Saudi Arabia has opened Shura Links — the kingdom’s first island golf course on Shura Island at The Red Sea development — a par-72, 7,400-yard championship course designed to blend championship play with regenerative tourism principles.
Course design & signature features
Shura Links is a par-72, approximately 7,400-yard championship course designed by renowned architect Brian Curley. The route winds through native mangroves and sweeping dunes before following the Red Sea shoreline, and was developed with a focus on minimal environmental interference and ecosystem-sensitive routing.
Facilities and visitor experience
- Beachfront clubhouse with panoramic sea views and elevated dining terraces.
- Family-friendly adventure putting course and PGA-qualified coaching programmes.
- Premium practice facilities with Callaway practice balls and a curated retail boutique.
Strategic role under Vision 2030
The opening of Shura Links supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objective to diversify the economy by developing world-class tourism and sporting experiences. Golf Saudi and Red Sea Global have described the course as a benchmark facility that helps position the Kingdom as an emerging hub for golf tourism.
Integration with The Red Sea development
Shura Island forms a central part of The Red Sea destination. Phase one opens with hotel brands including SLS, EDITION and InterContinental; an additional roster of resorts — such as Faena, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Jumeirah, Miraval, Raffles and Rosewood — is scheduled to come online across subsequent phases. Red Sea International Airport places the destination within three hours' flying time for roughly 250 million people, with new direct air links planned.
Environmental considerations & outlook
The course’s planning emphasises regenerative tourism and the protection of coastal and marine habitats. Ongoing ecological monitoring and low-impact operational practice will be essential to maintain the area’s biodiversity while scaling luxury tourism offerings.
