RSG’s Sustainable Adventure District in Saudi Arabia

Red Sea Global has announced the opening of ADRENA, a new adventure and entertainment district launching 1 March within Saudi Arabia's Red Sea tourism development project.

The complex will offer more than 20 attractions centred around water sports and extreme activities, including what the developer describes as the kingdom's largest saltwater surf pool, a wakeboarding lake and a series of high-adrenaline slides.

The project represents a significant investment in aquatic engineering and leisure infrastructure.

Sustainable innovation in desert resort development

ADRENA showcases how large-scale tourism developments are deploying specialised packages in marine construction and water management, incorporating technology such as programmable wave pools and closed-loop seawater systems that address sustainability challenges. 

The district will draw visitors from across The Red Sea destination and beyond. Situated close to Shura Island, ADRENA will provide access to activities ranging from surfing and wakeboarding to cliff diving and skateboarding.

John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, says: "Our unique adventure and entertainment district isn't just about offering thrilling experiences, it's about embodying the freedom of a coastal lifestyle – the energy, the community, the connection with nature.

"We've built ADRENA with sustainability at its core, demonstrating our commitment to regenerative tourism and ensuring an unforgettable experience for every guest, day and night. We look forward to welcoming visitors in the coming weeks." 

Red Sea Sports & Entertainment Co. will lead and manage ADRENA. The company also operates WAMA, which specialises in water sports, Galaxea, offering underwater experiences and Akun, which delivers land-based adventures.

Kingdom's largest saltwater surf pool takes centre stage

The centrepiece attraction will be a saltwater surf pool measuring 215 metres in length, set to become the largest in Saudi Arabia when it opens. Wave heights can reach a maximum of 2.1 metres, with customisable settings that allow adjustment based on the rider's skill level. Delivering this demands advanced hydraulic wave generators, reinforced basins and saltwater corrosion-proofing..

The facility will feature a wakeboarding lake, snorkelling trails and a six-metre-deep diving pool. Families can enjoy a children's water play area and a floating inflatable obstacle course. 

Additional amenities include a skatepark, BMX pump track and beach sports areas for football and volleyball. For thrill-seekers, there's an overwater zip line and a 10-metre-high 'slip 'n' fly' slide.

Accessibility has been incorporated into the district's design, with zero-depth entry points at many of the pools and adaptable options for activities including bodyboarding, paddleboarding, diving and snorkelling, allowing all guests to access the facilities.

Closed-loop water systems anchor environmental approach

ADRENA's construction follows Red Sea Global's sustainable development approach. The district operates a closed-loop system that draws seawater in, filters and circulates it through the various attractions, then returns it clean and filtered.

Any freshwater used across the district is reused for irrigation purposes, reducing environmental impact.

The Red Sea destination welcomed its first guests in 2023 and currently has nine hotels operating, along with Thuwal Private Retreat located off the coast of Jeddah.

Red Sea International Airport serves as the gateway to the destination for both guests and residents, offering a regular schedule of domestic and international flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai, Doha and Milan.