Saudi Arabia has just taken a mighty swipe at the global golf map with the grand opening of Shura Links, the Kingdom’s first island golf course.

Set on Shura Island at The Red Sea, this 7,400-yard par-72 creation from renowned architect Brian Curley isn’t just a course—it’s a statement.

Carved between mangroves, sculpted dunes, and shoreline breezes, Shura Links was designed to tread as lightly as a caddie on tiptoe.

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind The Red Sea and AMAALA, calls it a “regenerative tourism” landmark, one that blends the old romance of links golf with the futuristic ambition of Saudi Vision 2030.

“The opening of Shura Links is a landmark achievement in the Kingdom’s pursuit of global leadership in sports and tourism. It reflects the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and underscores PIF’s commitment to unlocking new sectors that diversify our economy and elevate quality of life.

Situated at the heart of The Red Sea, Shura Links is more than a world-class golf course — it is a powerful realisation of how this unique destination can be transformed into an engine for investment, luxury tourism, and sustainable opportunities for future generations,” said H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Chairman of Golf Saudi.

Anchoring the project is a beachfront clubhouse that feels less like a 19th hole and more like a five-star retreat. Think sweeping views over the finishing green, elevated dining and retail, and a poolside scene that makes it tempting to leave the clubs in the locker.

“Shura Links sets a new benchmark for the game of golf in the region. It’s more than just a course – it’s a place to connect, challenge yourself, and experience the full beauty of The Red Sea.

This is another proud milestone in our mission to reshape global tourism through sustainability and design, and a significant step in building Red Sea Global’s diverse sports portfolio, aligning perfectly with Vision 2030’s goal of establishing Saudi Arabia as a premier global sporting destination,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.

More Than a Golf Course

The extras read like a luxury golfer’s wish list:

A family-friendly adventure putting course
Premium Callaway practice balls straight from pro tours
A boutique golf shop with leading brands and Shura Links merchandise
Expansive grass practice facilities, from range to short-game area
Green fee options for both 9 and 18 holes
PGA-qualified coaching for all ages and levels

Brian Curley himself summed it up: “From the onset, Shura Links was designed to blend seamlessly with its natural, brilliant white, sand dunes surroundings, while delivering a one-of-a-kind golf experience.

It’s a course built to challenge seasoned pros from the tournament tees, yet the ‘find your ball’ theme is also inviting for those trying golf for the first time.

With Shura Links opening its doors, golfers from around the world can experience its unique character and world-class design.”

Golf Meets Global Tourism

Of course, no Saudi development launches in half measures. Shura Island will soon play host to 11 luxury resorts—names like Four Seasons, Jumeirah, Rosewood, and Grand Hyatt—all within reach of the course.

The island is also being dotted with exclusive residences, with the first homes ready for handover in 2025.

For visitors, Red Sea International Airport (RSI) has already rolled out domestic and international routes, with Qatar Airways set to add three weekly flights starting next month.

The math is simple: within three hours, 250 million people can reach the fairways of Shura Links. Within eight hours, 85% of the planet.

Noah Alireza, CEO of Golf Saudi, put it bluntly: “Through our close partnership with Red Sea Global, we reaffirm our commitment to building an integrated investment environment that positions Saudi Arabia as a premier destination where natural beauty, innovation, and sustainability converge.

Shura Links is not only a showcase of this vision, but also a foundational touchpoint in creating the Kingdom’s golf tourism trail — an entryway for international visitors to experience Saudi Arabia’s growing stature as a world-class tourism hub. It stands as an inspiration to golf enthusiasts, investors, and decision-makers around the globe.”

The Verdict

If golf is a game of imagination, Shura Links has given Saudi Arabia the biggest canvas in the desert. It’s coastal, it’s ambitious, and it’s designed to lure both seasoned players and wide-eyed newcomers.

Whether it becomes a pilgrimage spot for the world’s golfers or just another postcard for Vision 2030 remains to be seen—but one thing’s certain: Saudi golf has just put down a very expensive, very sandy marker.