Pioneers Shaping the Future of Tourism

Pioneers shaping the future of tourism are leading the charge with innovative ideas, sustainable practices, and a focus on enhancing the travel experience. These trailblazers are reimagining how destinations engage with travelers, introducing eco-friendly practices, and using technology to create personalized experiences. Their efforts are redefining the tourism industry by prioritizing environmental sustainability, community engagement, and transformative travel, setting the stage for a more responsible and enriching future in global tourism.

The Women Leading Red Sea Global’s Luxury Tourism Destinations

When imagining Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, visions of crystal-clear waters, pristine coral reefs, and lavish resorts often come to mind. However, behind this idyllic image is a dynamic team of women who are reshaping the future of Saudi tourism. These trailblazers, working at Red Sea Global (RSG), are at the forefront of transforming the Kingdom’s global tourism profile.

As of December 2024, RSG has firmly established itself as a world-class developer, overseeing not just the Red Sea destination but also AMAALA. Both projects reflect Saudi Vision 2030's goals of economic diversification and sustainable development. These destinations champion regenerative tourism, cultural preservation, and luxury. Yet, what sets RSG apart is its unwavering commitment to empowering women who are leading innovation in traditionally male-dominated industries. These women bring expertise, a deep understanding of the region's culture and heritage, and a shared vision for a sustainable future, making them invaluable to the organization and the nation.

Here, we meet three leaders driving this transformation: Khloud Alkhalaqi, Senior Manager of Social Development; Areej Alhussan, Senior Manager of Adventures and Sports; and Layla Alamri, Senior Manager of Education. Their stories reflect the journey of Saudi women shaping the future of tourism.

Khloud Alkhalaqi - Senior Manager of Social Development

For Khloud Alkhalaqi, joining RSG was a natural next step in her mission to create meaningful socioeconomic impact. With a career focused on sustainability and cultural preservation, Khloud saw RSG’s vision of regenerative tourism as aligning perfectly with her values.

“The opportunity to contribute to developing Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast as a world-class luxury tourism destination while promoting local heritage and empowering communities inspired me to take on this role,” she explains. Her work includes initiatives like Cultural Reflection, Green Coast, and the Red Sea Classic Sailing Race—projects designed to protect cultural traditions while driving economic growth. These initiatives demonstrate how tourism can bridge the preservation of history with a sustainable future, ensuring local traditions remain alive and relevant.

For Khloud, the most rewarding part of her work is witnessing tangible results. “Seeing local communities empowered and environmental resources protected affirms the value of this work,” she shares. Her projects offer a model for balancing cultural preservation with economic progress, a cornerstone of Vision 2030.

As a Saudi woman in a leadership position, Khloud acknowledges the challenges posed by traditional perceptions. “Navigating traditional views and ensuring equitable opportunities were some initial challenges,” she admits. Through measurable results and fostering collaboration, she has defied stereotypes and reshaped expectations. Her advice to other women is straightforward yet powerful: “Believe in yourself and your ability to inspire and lead. Your efforts pave the way not just for your success but for others to follow.”

Areej Alhussan - Senior Manager of Adventures and Sports

Areej Alhussan joined RSG at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a global tourism hub. “When Vision 2030 was announced, I took a leap of faith to support the Kingdom in this ambitious mission,” she recalls. Today, she is a driving force behind the unique adventures and sports activities that set RSG destinations apart.

One of Areej’s proudest moments was witnessing the construction of Shebara, a design once deemed too complex to build. “I remember fearing the design wouldn’t live up to expectations due to its complexity,” she shares. “But with strong leadership, we turned the impossible into reality!” The success of Shebara not only exemplifies architectural and engineering innovation but also underscores RSG’s commitment to pushing boundaries.

Areej also finds fulfillment in seeing Saudi families experience world-class hospitality at RSG destinations. “The awe and speechlessness of my family and friends when they visit is priceless,” she says. It’s moments like these that highlight RSG’s societal impact, fostering pride and a sense of belonging among Saudis.

Navigating a male-dominated field was an initial challenge for Areej, particularly as she worked to break stereotypes surrounding Saudi women in sports. “I often had to prove myself in ways my male counterparts didn’t. It required a delicate balance between asserting my abilities and adhering to cultural expectations,” she reflects. Her resilience and creativity helped her overcome these obstacles. Her advice to aspiring women leaders: “If you have a dream, go for it! Knock on doors, and they will open.”

Layla Alamri - Senior Manager of Education

For Layla Alamri, her role at RSG is more than just a job - it’s a personal mission. “Joining a project aligned with Vision 2030 was not just a career milestone, but a personal dream come true,” she says. As Senior Manager of Education, Layla focuses on empowering Saudi talent through innovative programs designed to transform students into global leaders.

One of the highlights of her work is watching graduates from these programs thrive in luxury hotels across RSG destinations. “These local talents not only excel in their roles but also become ambassadors of excellence, embodying the vision of a vibrant, skilled Saudi workforce,” she explains. This success showcases the transformative power of education and mentorship - principles Layla is passionate about.

Balancing a demanding career with her responsibilities as a mother of three has its challenges. “Ensuring my children’s smooth educational journey and transition into employment requires dedication,” she shares. Layla manages this by prioritizing quality family time, allowing her to excel both professionally and personally.

Her advice to other women: “Success isn’t about mastering what you’re already good at - it’s about continuously improving, evolving, and staying open to new possibilities.” Layla’s journey illustrates that with dedication and support, women can balance both personal and professional aspirations.

Shaping a New Era

The stories of Khloud, Areej, and Layla reflect not only the growth of RSG but also the wider transformation of Saudi Arabia. Their leadership, resilience, and vision are breaking barriers, paving the way for a new era of women in the Kingdom and beyond. Together, they represent the future of a workforce that is innovative, empowered, and deeply rooted in its cultural heritage.

As RSG continues to redefine tourism, it’s clear that its greatest asset isn’t just its pristine beaches or luxurious resorts - it’s the women shaping its success. Their work exemplifies the power of Saudi Vision 2030 in action, demonstrating how ambition, collaboration, and a commitment to cultural integrity are driving the nation’s transformation.

For questions or comments write to writers@bostonbrandmedia.com

Source: arabianbusiness‍