Red Sea Global partners with NTT Data for smart digital solutions in its destinations
Red Sea Global, the developer behind major tourism destinations in the Red Sea region, has signed a strategic partnership with NTT Data to jointly develop digital solutions and technology services in areas such as smart cities, hospitality and connected living.
Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Red Sea Global is one of the major vehicles supporting Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions under Vision 2030. The integrated developer is responsible for building large-scale luxury tourism, hospitality, residential, infrastructure and leisure assets along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast.
The group’s overall portfolio covers around 32,000 square kilometres of development, including 90 islands and around 30 hotels. Major developments include The Red Sea, a major luxury tourism ecosystem that includes its own airport; AMAALA, a development focused more on ultra-luxury lifestyle; and Thuwal Private Retreat, a private-island luxury destination focused on privacy and highly personalised luxury.
NTT Data
Under the framework agreement, NTT Data will provide its expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), systems integration, cloud and digital transformation, as well as deep know-how of emerging technologies such as the internet of things, digital twins, private 5G and smart-city technology. The aim is to help Red Sea Global develop next-generation digital solutions for its developments.
“Technology has enormous potential to transform how destinations are designed, operated and experienced,” said Sultan Moraished, Group Head of Technology and Corporate Excellence at Red Sea Global. “Through this strategic partnership with NTT Data, we will explore innovative digital solutions that can enhance guest experiences, optimise operations and help shape the future of hospitality in Saudi Arabia and international markets.”
As part of the partnership, the two companies will also explore the creation of a flexible digital services platform that could support the continued growth of Red Sea Global’s portfolio.
“As AI and intelligent technologies reshape industries, organisations are looking for new ways to deliver more connected, personalised and sustainable experiences,” said Rami Beidas, Managing Director at NTT Data. “Through this partnership, we have an opportunity to help accelerate innovation, unlock new digital business models and create unique solutions for Red Sea Global.”
Smart cities
The partnership comes at a time of growing interest in turning cities into smart cities, fuelled by smart technology and modern management approaches to urban, societal and sustainability challenges. Currently valued at around $850 billion, the global smart cities market is projected to reach more than $1.5 trillion by 2030, according to research from Markets and Markets.
Headquartered in Japan and with a relatively large operation in the Middle East, NTT Data is a recognised leader in smart city technology, with deep expertise in areas including the internet of things, digital twins, AI, edge computing and connectivity. The firm’s end-to-end capabilities also cover areas such as urban planning, regenerative models, mobility, public safety, energy, infrastructure and sustainability.
