Laheq, a New Coastal Chapter at The Red Sea
Set against the backdrop of the Red Sea’s ecological diversity, Laheq marks the next stage in Saudi Arabia’s growing portfolio of coastal destinations. Currently under development, the island is scheduled to open in 2028 and will introduce a new blend of residential living and resort hospitality.
Positioned near the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef, Laheq is surrounded by waters that support over 2,000 species of marine life, many of them unique to the region. The island’s landscape has informed every part of its design. Foster + Partners has shaped the masterplan around the idea of a ‘forever garden’, a place where architecture responds to the local climate and ecosystem rather than imposing upon it.
The development will include two hotels. One will focus on wellness, offering quiet space for restoration. The other will take a more active approach, catering to travellers drawn to movement, exploration, and outdoor pursuits. Together, they will be supported by an 18-hole golf course, a 115-berth marina, a sports field, watersports facilities, and a racket club. A dedicated fitness centre will house specialist equipment for individual training.
Alongside hospitality, Laheq presents a new opportunity for private ownership within The Red Sea. The residential properties, ranging from apartments to villas, are shaped by the island’s terrain and climate. Materials are chosen to reflect the surrounding land and sea, with interior spaces designed to bring in natural light and coastal air. Garden courtyards, shaded walkways, and open living areas allow movement between indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the day.
The broader Red Sea project continues to evolve. Five resorts are now open, with a further phase of hotels launching through 2025. Red Sea International Airport receives both domestic and international flights, and new infrastructure is in place to support future demand.
Laheq sits within Red Sea Global’s long-term approach to regenerative tourism. Rather than simply conserving its location, the development aims to support biodiversity, particularly coral reef systems. Upon completion, Laheq will be powered entirely by renewable energy, contributing to what will become the largest destination of its kind operating on 100 percent clean power.
The island does not seek spectacle. Its ambition lies in balance—between land and water, architecture and ecology, travel and settlement. Laheq is being shaped as a place to live well, quietly rooted in its coastal setting.
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