The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) has awarded the design contract for Red Sea International Airport in Saudi Arabia to Foster + Partners. The airport is set to serve one million passengers by 2030.
John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC, the developer behind the ambitious Red Sea tourism project, said, “Awarding the contract for the design of our airport is an important milestone and the first of the underlying infrastructure projects of the destination.
“Foster + Partners and its engineering subconsultant, WSP Global, have demonstrated their ability to deliver projects in line with world-class development and our sustainability standards. We look forward to collaborating with them to develop an innovative design that will enhance the visitor experience, meet our sustainability goals, and enable us to deliver an airport for the future.”
The airport is due for completion in 2022 and will feature an eco-friendly and sustainable design. Its architecture will be informed by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape and represent the vision of the Red Sea project.
Gerard Evenden, head of studio, Foster + Partners, added, “The Red Sea Airport has been envisaged as a gateway to one of the most unique resorts in the world and an integral part of the visitor experience. Inspired by the colors and textures of the desert landscape, the design seeks to create a calm and luxurious journey through the terminal and will become a transit hub for visitors coming in by both land and air. We look forward to working with the Red Sea Development Company to fulfill the vision for this ambitious one-of-a-kind project.”
Ian Williamson, chief project delivery officer, at TRSDC added, “The airport will be a cutting-edge facility providing a unique experience for our visitors. Smart technology will play a vital role in the development of the airport and it was key for us to work with a company who could assemble a team with the skills to ensure the airport would be smart by design.”
The Red Sea Project will see the development of a new luxury destination by the end of 2022. In addition to the dedicated airport, the first phase of the development will include up to 14 hotels, as well as commercial, retail and leisure facilities and other infrastructure.