A new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s coastal transformation has just been revealed as Laheq Island.
Slated to open in 2028, this island isn’t just another tourist destination. It’s the first private residential island in the Kingdom, offering buyers the chance to own a slice of Saudi Arabian paradise within the fast-growing, luxury Red Sea Global development: Laheq Island will feature two distinct luxury resorts, totalling 300 keys: a tranquil wellness retreat and an adventure-oriented destination.
Here’s what to expect from the latest luxury destination set to make waves.
So, what exactly is Laheq Island?
Laheq Island is Red Sea Global’s first residential-focused project. While earlier developments like Shura Island focused on resorts and high-end hospitality, Laheq will be residential-first, offering homes designed for full ownership—think ultra-exclusive villas, private beach access, and concierge-level service. Of course, for those interested in visiting the Red Sea region, the project will also include a number of hospitality offerings, so residents and visitors alike can tap into the same five-star amenities.
The Laheq Island project part of the wider Red Sea Global (RSG) vision, which is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and leading the country’s charge into sustainable tourism and regenerative development.
Where is it?
Laheq is located along Saudi Arabia’s western coast and sits within an archipelago of 92 untouched islands. The area is home to one of the world’s largest barrier reefs, which supports more than 2,000 marine species, many of them rare and found nowhere else.
You’ll be able to get there easily thanks to the Red Sea International Airport, which is already operating and directly links the region to global and domestic hubs.
What’s it like?
The island spans 400 hectares, giving it enough room to feel like an ultra-private retreat but still packed with world-class lifestyle facilities. Red Sea Global has teased a mix of recreational options—from wellness retreats and nature trails to diving, sailing, and sustainable adventure sports.
Laheq Island will offer a range of accommodations, including a 115-berth marina for luxury yachts, and two luxury resorts (300 keys) catering to the diverse interests of wellness and adventure. Within these resorts, there will be an estimated 500 private villas, and 300 condos, each complete with canopies and courtyards. On land, residents and guests can also enjoy a tennis / padel club, a top-of-the-range fitness centre, a beautiful family-friendly park, and an 18-hole golf course.
Expect architecture that blends luxury with sustainability. All infrastructure on the island will be powered entirely by renewable energy, part of RSG’s broader commitment to making the Red Sea destination the world’s largest tourism site powered 100% by clean energy.
Who designed Laheq Island?
World-renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners is behind the design of Laheq Island, and the firm is already playing a significant role in Saudi Arabia's ambitious developments, exemplified by their innovative designs for the Saudi Arabian Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan and several other Red Sea based projects such as the soon-to-open Equinox Resort Amaala, Six Senses Southern Dunes and the Coral Bloom of Shura Island.
The British firm's commitment to sustainable architecture and blending with the natural landscape is evident in various projects across the Kingdom, contributing to its transformative vision.
And encompassing this commitment, the Laheq Island is encircled by the world's fourth-largest barrier reef and has a vibrant ecosystem teeming with over 2,000 marine species, thus the Foster + Partners-designed "Forever Garden" promises a harmonious blend of lush, sustainable architecture, epitomised by the central 800-meter Ring structure housing luxury apartments, retail, and hotels.
Why does it matter?
Laheq marks a significant shift in Saudi Arabia’s development strategy. It’s a blueprint for eco-conscious coastal living, one where residential development is paired with environmental regeneration. RSG has committed to planting 50 million mangrove trees, restoring coral reefs, and enhancing marine habitats in the area. The goal is to protect the environment and actively improve it while creating a high-value destination for long-term residents.
What’s next?
While Laheq is set to open in 2028, development across the Red Sea region is ramping up fast. The first five resorts opened in 2023, and by the end of 2025, all 16 phase-one resorts are expected to be operational. Over the coming years, the destination will expand to 50 resorts, 8,000 hotel rooms, and more than 1,000 residential units spread across 22 islands and six inland locations.
