Whether looking to rest and restore, play and connect, or inspire yourself, Hurghada’s tourist promenade offers something for everyone. From the best beaches starting at Sigala, Sahl Hasheesh, and Makadi Bay, to exploring the marine life and coral formations, many activities exist.

Experience the Rich Marine Life and Coral Formations in Hurghada

Hurghada is a diving paradise with warm and clear waters that offer excellent visibility, making it a favourite destination for divers worldwide. For those who want to get PADI certified this season, this is the perfect place to do so. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the Red Sea’s marine life and coral formations, as well as wreck diving, such as at Shadwan Island. With a range of diving centres in the region, you can rest assured that you’ll find the perfect diving experience that fits your preferences and skill level.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Tini Ba (@tini_ba_)

Island Hop to Giftun Islands and Gota Abu Ramada

If you’re a snorkelling and scuba diving fan, you must take advantage of the chance to island hop to Giftun Islands. Also known as “The Aquarium,” the islands are home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Here, you can enjoy a day of snorkelling or scuba diving in crystal-clear waters while enjoying the magnificent blue-gold landscape. Gota Abu Ramada, a dive site, is also located here.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Yevgen Sukharenko (@ysukharenko)

Read More: Sindalah, Red Sea’s First Luxury Island Destination

Adventures in the Mountains and Desert when at Hurghada

While Hurghada is famous for its beaches and diving spots, there’s much more to explore in this stunning region. If you want a more adventurous experience, head into the mountains and the desert. Enjoy quad biking, Jeep expeditions, and dune buggy trips in the desert, or book a Bedouin dinner tour for a more cultural experience. Of course, the stunning mountains of Hurghada are also worth exploring, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and trekking.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Travel | Love | Creators ♡ (@betterexploretogether)

Kitesurfing and Wakeboarding in El Gouna

El Gouna is a small town 25 kilometres north of Hurghada and is known for its luxury resorts, stunning beaches, kitesurfing and wakeboarding. This is an excellent place for adventure enthusiasts to enjoy water sports, with plenty of equipment rental shops and expert instructors to help you master the sports. So whether you’re an experienced kitesurfer or a beginner, El Gouna has something to offer everyone.

Luxurious hotels & resorts to stay when at Hurghada

Hurghada has its fair share of luxurious resorts in Egypt. Among the best resorts are The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay, Chedi El Gouna, Casa Cook El Gouna, Rixos Premium Magawish Suites and Villas, and Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh. These resorts offer breathtaking views of the Red Sea and world-class amenities such as private beaches, infinity pools, and spa facilities.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Oberoi, Sahl Hasheesh (@theoberoisahlhasheesh)

The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, for instance, is a serene sanctuary with a private beach, lush gardens, and luxurious rooms and suites. Meanwhile, Chedi El Gouna offers a contemporary retreat in a picturesque setting, featuring stylish rooms and villas, a spa, and an infinity pool with views of the lagoon. So whether seeking a romantic getaway or a family vacation, these resorts offer the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and relaxation.

The new, eco-friendly Serry Beach Resort in Hurghada

The latest luxury hospitality offering in the Red Sea region is the Serry Beach Resort in Hurghada, a prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts – Lifestyle member. This newly opened private beachfront property boasts 453 scenic accommodations of seven different types, including penthouses, signature suites, and up to four-bedroom suites.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Serry Beach Resort (@serrybeachresort)

The resort prides itself on being the first sustainable luxury resort in the capital of the Red Sea and the first environmentally friendly luxury resort in the region. Its ecologically friendly architecture and decor are inspired by earthy, minimalist Arabesque Zen and Egyptian culture, with each room, chalet, and suite designed to provide a sense of peace and cosiness.

The resort uses natural and locally manufactured furniture, handcrafted clay pots, and paintings, working with community carpenters, farmers, artists and artisans. In addition, it uses natural stone, solar energy, and water recycling to lessen its carbon footprint.

Serry Beach Resort offers a unique cultural and culinary experience through five different outlets inspired by local heritage and an array of bespoke experiences, including a certified five-star PADI diving centre. This resort is an excellent option for travellers who seek both luxury and authenticity to the city’s tourist promenade.

Hurghada offers a plethora of activities for every traveller, from beach bums to adventure enthusiasts. With its magnificent beaches, incredible marine life, and fascinating desert landscapes, this resort town is an ideal destination for a unique and unforgettable vacation experience.

Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

© This article was first published online in Apr 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Hurghada: Egypt’s Red Sea Gem – Diving, Mountains & Luxury first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

The proposed leading gateway to the Red Sea offering bespoke nautical experiences, Sindalah, the first of 10 regions, is expected to start welcoming guests to enjoy its outstanding facilities and exclusive offerings from early 2024.

Extending over an area of approximately 840,000 square meters, Sindalah is one of a group of islands that will be developed in NEOM, each according to its unique vision and design.

His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Chairman of the NEOM Company Board of Directors said: “Sindalah will be NEOM’s first luxury island and yacht club destination in the Red Sea, providing a scenic gateway to the Red Sea that will become the region’s most exciting and attractive tourism location.”

“It will be a destination where travellers can experience the true beauty of NEOM and Saudi Arabia, above and below the water, making Sindalah the future of luxury travel.”

Reimagining the yachting & luxury travel culture at the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Sindalah will reshape the luxury international yachting calendar, offering a new season for visitors and guests to enjoy. It will feature a prestigious 86-berth marina, an ideal destination for accommodating luxury vessels, while 75 offshore buoys will house superyachts.

Providing one-of-a-kind nautical experiences, Sindalah will offer 413 ultra-premium hotel rooms, 88 villas in addition to 333 top-end serviced apartments spread across three luxury hotels. A luxe beach club, glamorous yacht club, 51 luxury retail outlets, three rooftop lounges, 38 unique culinary offerings and nine fine dining restaurants will provide an incomparable experience in the Red Sea.

With its incredible amenities, state-of-the-art marine facilities, strategic location and exceptional natural landscapes, Sindalah is expected to become one of the most alluring islands in the Red Sea.

NEOM is developing the island to be a premium destination surrounded by a stunning and diverse marine environment with one of the world’s most beautiful coral reserves.

Sindalah is also expected to become a popular golfing destination by offering enthusiasts the opportunity to experience a world-class 6,474-yard (5,920 meters) par 70 course. With its 18 tees, the Sindalah golf course will deliver two unique nine-hole experiences.

Sindalah the island

The cultural and events calendar at Sindalah, Saudi Arabia

From spectacular sporting extravaganzas to creative cultural events and glamorous social galas to imaginative experiences, Sindalah will curate a dazzling range of opulent activities each season.

From December to February, dubbed the ‘Social season’, be enchanted by music concerts and artful culture events held at inspiring creative venues.

The ‘Glamour season’ will run from March to May, then from October to November, and will coincide with the peak yachting event season. The ‘Active season’ from June to September will offer guests a range of family-friendly beach and recreational activities

Read More: 10 Incredible Experiences In Saudi Arabia

The Sindalah island development is part of the greater NEOM mega project that includes THE LINE and TROJENA, its global mountain tourism destination that will be Arabian Gulf’s first outdoor skiing retreat.

Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

© This article was first published online in Dec 2022 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Sindalah, Red Sea’s First Luxury Island Destination first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Saudi Arabia might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of cruise holidays, but the Red Sea is fast becoming a buzzing destination for those looking for something different. With plenty of activities onboard world-class cruise ships that port in Saudi Arabia and unique historic sites, heritage, cultural experiences and natural wonders inland, this Arabian coastline should definitely be on your travel radar.

Saudi Arabia is an untapped destination with a coastline that has been off-limits for years despite being right in the middle of the world’s busiest marine traffic highway, linking the Indian Ocean to the Suez Canal. However, Saudi Arabia is now opening up its coastline for cruise ships and is becoming a new destination for cruisers.

Saudi Arabia – a growing port of call for major cruise lines

Since the start of the 2021 cruise season, more than 70 cruise ships have made port calls in Saudi Arabia, including major cruise lines such as Viking Ocean, Silverseas, Scenic and MSC. The luxurious MSC Bellissima, one of MSC’s newest family-friendly cruise ships calls Jeddah Islamic Port her homeport. In addition, MSC Virtuosa made its maiden call to Jeddah in April this year while on her way to the Mediterranean and the British Isles for the summer season.

As part of the ‘Cruise Saudi’ initiative, cruise lines have added Saudi Arabia to their itineraries, and travellers are excited to explore this new destination. With Cruise Saudi’s continued efforts, it is only a matter of time before Saudi Arabia quickly becomes an established cruise destination in the Middle East.

Major destinations along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Coastline

Saudi Arabia’s coastline on the Red Sea is home to a fantastic array of coral reef habitats. These reefs, along with the mangrove forests found along the Saudi coast, play a vital role in the health of the Red Sea ecosystem. In addition, the coral reefs provide a critical source of food and shelter for many fish and other marine creatures.

The Red Sea coastline is dotted with the ruins of ancient trading ports that attest to the region’s rich seafaring history. These sites provide valuable insights into the trade routes and settlement patterns of the past. But, perhaps most impressive are the still-surviving settlements that were developed as fishing and trading ports. These settlements offer a glimpse into the everyday life of Red Sea merchants and fishermen.

The diverse coastline has over 1150 islands, most with sandy beaches that offer stunning views towards its coastlines or coral reefs just offshore where snorkelling enthusiasts can explore under waterfalls pools filled with colourful fish.

The Farasan Islands are a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. This beautiful archipelago sits at the southern tip of Saudi Arabia, west of Jazan City along its coastline. It contains some absolutely breathtaking scenery and natural habitats for nesting sea turtles and seabirds.

Jeddah Islamic Port

Jeddah Islamic Port is a launch point to explore the Saudi Arabian coastline. From Jeddah, travellers can explore the city’s mix of ancient and modern architecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Balad, Jeddah’s old town.

Read More: 10 Incredible Experiences In Saudi Arabia For 2022

Al Wajh

A port call at Al Wajh is an invitation to explore the history of Arabia through sand and stone. The city’s white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters are a stark contrast to the surrounding desert sands, and visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports such as snorkelling, diving and windsurfing.

In addition to its natural beauty, Al Wajh is also rich in history and culture. The city was once an important trading hub on the Incense Route, and its ancient fortresses and markets offer a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s past.

A three-hour drive from this coastal city takes us to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra and Al-Ula. Hegra is a forgotten city of the ancient world, hidden in plain sight. This site was designated by UNESCO for its incredible preservation abilities and seems to be lost amongst sand dunes that date back centuries ago when it served an important role as one piece within another larger puzzle – the Nabatean civilization.

Continue the exploration to the ancient city of AlUla with its citadel dating back to the 10th century. The old town has 900+ brick houses and 400 shops, with plenty of alleyways to explore.

Yanbu Al Bahr

Yanbu Al Bahr is one of the most popular ports of call on this coastline. The city is located on the Red Sea coast and is known for its beaches, warm waters and excellent scuba diving.

The Ras Al Abyad, also known as Coastal White Head for its pristine beaches on the coastline near Yanbu, features stunning beaches with pristine water and white sand and contains some all-female areas for those who want an escape without distractions.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Thamer S. Habis (@thamer.habis)

Yanbu can become a true paradise for water lovers. Yanbu offers a good array of watersports opportunities, from scuba diving and snorkelling to windsurfing and kitesurfing. Yanbu is high on the list of places to scuba dive in the Red Sea.

The clear waters and abundant marine life make Yanbu a diver’s paradise. From the Seven Sisters Coral Reef to shipwrecks teeming with fish, Yanbu, ‘the Pearl of the Red Sea’ has something for everyone. And with a year-round climate that is perfect for watersports, Yanbu is the ideal place to enjoy the water, no matter your passion.

Ras Al-Sheikh Hameed and Sindalah Island

Heading north along the Saudi Red Sea coastline, towards the edges of Egypt’s Sinai and across from the waters of the world-famous Sharm el-Sheikh, we come to Ras Al-Sheikh Hameed and Sindalah Island, touching the Gulf of Aqaba and Strait of Tiran.

The Ras Al-Sheikh Hameed is a beautiful sandy cape with coral reefs and rich marine life just beyond the beach. Head to this cape for a stunning view of the Sinai Mountains of Egypt across the straits and gorgeous sunsets that silhouette the Sinai and the Red Sea.

Sindalah, an exclusive private island in the Red Sea, is a luxurious getaway for the privileged few. With five Royal Cabanas, an opulent spa, a beach club and two fine restaurants, Sindalah offer its guests the height of luxury and relaxation. The crystal-clear turquoise waters of Sindalah are a haven for snorkellers and scuba divers, and the beautiful sandy beaches are perfect for lounging in the sun.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Goran Tomic (@goran_tomic_ccl)

Yuba and Shusha are great spots for snorkelling, while Sanafir and Tiran offer breathtaking views of their rocky shores. The smaller islands of Baraqan, Wallah, Sila, Al Farshah, Umm Qusur and Shujayrat are also well worth a visit. They’re home to rare birds and sea life, including green and hawksbill turtles.

Read More: Epic Views & Thrills At Family Friendly Schilthorn, Switzerland
Read More: Travel With Your Family To Zurich And Enjoy The Vacation Of A Lifetime!
Read More: Canton Of Vaud – A Family Destination For Adventure Sports, Culture & Relaxation
Read More: Experience The Thrill Of A Lifetime At The Jungfrau Region 
Read More: Saint Bernards, Thermal Pools & Mountains – This Is What Makes Switzerland Special

If you love cruising, Saudi Arabia is a destination you won’t want to miss. With its sparkling turquoise waters and diverse landscape, the Red Sea coastline of Saudi Arabia offers explorers plenty of opportunities to discover new things. The cruise season has just begun, and there’s already excitement in the air for what this year will bring. So if you’re looking for a new and exciting cruise destination, put Saudi Arabia on your list.

Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

© This article was first published online in Apr 2022 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Red Sea & Saudi Arabia, The Next Buzzing Cruise Destination first appeared on World Travel Magazine.