The Red Sea Achieves Global Milestone with Destination-Wide Verification
In a remarkable development in the world of luxury tourism, Red Sea Global has announced that The Red Sea has become the first destination globally to achieve destination-wide verification from Forbes Travel Guide. This prestigious accolade represents a significant milestone in the hospitality industry, underlining the region’s commitment to excellence in service and tourism.
The collaborative effort between Red Sea Global (RSG) and Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) was instrumental in defining a robust set of service standards tailored to the unique experiences sought by discerning travelers. These standards were assessed through rigorous audits that monitored staff performance across five critical touchpoints: booking processes, ground transportation, marine and air transfers, and the curated experiences offered to guests.
Through a meticulous “mystery shopping” evaluation, the Red Sea’s operations and service delivery were examined to ensure they met these newly established standards, resulting in the coveted designation of a Verified Destination. This initiative saw the creation of a comprehensive framework comprising 182 service standards organized into eight key categories: personalized service, courtesy, efficiency, cleanliness, luxury, comfort, technical expertise, and staff appearance. Notably, this framework is not merely theoretical; it has been woven into the very fabric of daily operations at The Red Sea through continuous training, recognition, and follow-up auditing.
The implications of this achievement extend beyond the confines of individual hotels and resorts. By embedding these high standards throughout the entire destination, Red Sea Global has set a new benchmark for hospitality on a scale not seen before. As hospitality experts have noted, the distinction of a destination-wide verification not only enhances the guest experience but also elevates the entire region as an attractive location for luxury tourism.
In addition to the destination-wide recognition, three prominent resorts within The Red Sea, namely Six Senses Southern Dunes, St. Regis Red Sea Resort, and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, have also been honored with inaugural Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards. This recognition highlights their exceptional service and sets them apart in a competitive industry, further enhancing The Red Sea’s reputation as a premier travel destination.
Since welcoming its first guests in 2023, The Red Sea has expanded to include nine operational hotels, alongside Thuwal Private Retreat. This variety not only diversifies the accommodations available but also offers visitors a choice of unique experiences tailored to different preferences and needs. The region is now more accessible than ever, with the Red Sea International Airport serving as a critical hub connecting the destination to domestic and international flights from key cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai, Doha, and Milan.
John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, eloquently expressed the company’s vision regarding this milestone: “At Red Sea Global, we have always believed that luxury is not defined by a single place, but by how a guest feels throughout their entire journey. Achieving Forbes Travel Guide verification at a destination scale is a powerful validation of the service culture we have built across teams, operators, and every touchpoint our guests encounter. This is not a hotel standard. This is a destination standard, and we are proud for The Red Sea to be the first in the world to achieve it.”
Hermann Elger, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide, commended Red Sea Global’s efforts, stating, “Congratulations to Red Sea Global and The Red Sea team on achieving the world’s first Forbes Travel Guide Verified Destination accolade – an extraordinary milestone for hospitality. Delivering and sustaining service excellence throughout a destination requires unwavering commitment at every touchpoint – from booking to the final farewell. The Red Sea has set a new benchmark for destinations globally.”
In conclusion, the achievement of destination-wide verification is not merely a feather in the cap for The Red Sea; it represents a broader commitment to hospitality excellence that can inspire tourism initiatives worldwide. As consumers increasingly seek travel experiences characterized by quality service and memorable journeys, The Red Sea stands as a pioneering example of what a collaborative commitment to high standards can achieve. With its combination of breathtaking natural beauty and unparalleled service, it positions itself as a foremost destination in an ever-evolving tourism landscape.
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