TABUK: Red Sea Global has unveiled a “science-based model” aimed at achieving a 30 percent net-positive conservation benefit across its tourism destinations by 2040.
The framework is now available for global adoption, according to a statement released by the RSG. The report is titled “The SIIG Model: A Roadmap Toward Achieving Measurable Conservation Gains.”
Owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Red Sea Global is the multi-project developer behind ambitious regenerative tourism destinations including The Red Sea and AMAALA.
As a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, the company aims to diversify the national economy while setting new global benchmarks for sustainable, nature-positive development.
CEO John Pagano stated that sharing this detailed approach would help elevate the global tourism sector and secure a healthier environment for future generations.
Map showing the boundaries of the Red Sea Zone. (Graphic from the RSG report)
The cornerstone of this initiative is the proprietary SIIG Model, a four-step framework which includes surveying to establish biodiversity baselines and monitor long-term changes; and identifying and assessing risks to priority habitats and species.
In addition, the model includes seeking interventions to execute evidence-based actions such as regulating fishing and enhancing natural habitats; and measuring and verifying biodiversity improvements.
The report details that the model’s rollout has been backed by extensive 2022–2023 environmental baseline studies covering eight marine habitats and priority species groups.
A major intervention is the 5,015 sq. km Fishery Management Area in Al-Wajh Lagoon. The plan reserves 38 percent of the area for priority conservation — protecting 62 percent of local coral reefs — while allocating 61 percent for sustainable fishing.
According to scientific modeling, eliminating fishing in high-protection zones could increase reef fish populations by 113 percent, sharks and rays by 72 percent, and marine mammals by 24 percent.
These measures are expected to boost coral resilience, support ecosystem recovery, and protect vulnerable species including sea turtles and seabirds.
Ihab Kindi, RSG’s Red Sea destination executive director, said the model was a practical roadmap for large-scale marine recovery.
