NEOM, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has unveiled Magna, a new coastal region prepared to redefine luxury sustainable tourism. This ambitious challenge, spanning 120 kilometres along the Gulf of Aqaba coastline, is a key element of NEOM’s local sustainable tourism portfolio. Magna encompasses twelve unique destinations: Leyja, Epicon, Siranna, Utamo, Norlana, Aquellum, Zardun, Xaynor, Elanan, Gidori, Treyam, and Jaumur. Each location, distinct in its offerings, will seamlessly merge, forming a unified and harmonious region.
Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, Magna hopes to diversify the Kingdom’s economy through cutting-edge technology, world-class architecture, and ultra-modern amenities that blend effortlessly with nature. The project is set to establish a new global standard in high-end eco-friendly tourism, featuring 15 luxury hotels, 1,600 hotel rooms, suites, and apartments, and over 2,500 premium residences, designed for the most selective residents and guests.
According to Nadhmi Al-Nasr, CEO of NEOM: “NEOM’s premier coastal region of Magna is a treasure of tomorrow, steeped in natural beauty and advanced technology. Aligned with our three pillars of redefining business, conservation, and livability, Magna will play a key role in building a strong tourism ecosystem within NEOM. Importantly, Magna will contribute positively to the national economic diversification efforts and to the broader Saudi Vision 2030 goals, helping to position the Kingdom as a global leader in luxury tourism.”
Sustainability and Conservation Focus
Magna’s advancement embodies the principles of conservation, preservation, and rejuvenation of native flora and fauna, seamlessly blending with the breathtaking natural scenery. Sustainability is at the leading edge of the project’s design, construction, and long-term maintenance, creating 15,000 jobs and contributing SAR2.6 billion to the Kingdom’s GDP by 2030. With an expected influx of over 300,000 overnight visitors annually, Magna is slated to become the iconic cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s luxury tourism industry.
This project has attracted the expertise of some of the world’s most innovative architects, each renowned for their distinctive contributions to sustainable design and architectural excellence.
Shaun Killa, founder of Dubai-based Killa Design, is renowned for integrating renewable energy solutions like wind turbines into iconic projects such as the Dubai Opera House and Bahrain World Trade Centre. Mario Cucinella Architects (MCA), led by Mario Cucinella, excels in environmental sustainability with offices in Paris and Bologna, integrating cutting-edge technologies to reduce energy consumption. Nathalie Rozencwajg, co-founder of RARE Architecture, specialises in adaptive reuse and urban conservation, blending historical preservation with contemporary design principles internationally. Mark Foster Gage, principal architect at Mark Foster Gage Architects in NYC and Yale School of Architecture pushes aesthetic and technological boundaries. Tobias Wallisser, co-founder of LAVA and professor at Stuttgart University, pioneers digital workflows and sustainable materials.
