Pagano: Visionary Leader Shaping Saudi Arabia’s Luxury Tourism Destinations

Pagano is a seasoned leader with over 40 years of experience in delivering large-scale development projects, playing a pivotal role in reshaping the global tourism and hospitality landscape. Since January 2018, he has been at the helm of Red Sea Global (RSG), where his expertise and strategic vision have guided the company’s growth and development. His leadership has been instrumental in overseeing the creation of The Red Sea and AMAALA, two of the most ambitious luxury and environmentally sustainable tourism destinations in Saudi Arabia.

Driving Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Revolution

As the CEO of RSG, Pagano is at the forefront of one of the most exciting developments in Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. The Red Sea project is a large-scale, mixed-use development that spans more than 28,000 square kilometers of pristine coastline, offering luxury resorts, residential communities, and world-class amenities. The development is a cornerstone of the country’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and position Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourism hub.

Equally significant is AMAALA, a high-end, ultra-luxury destination on the Red Sea coast that emphasizes wellness, sustainability, and innovative design. It will feature a range of eco-friendly resorts, exclusive villas, and luxury leisure facilities, attracting affluent travelers from around the world who seek not just opulence but also environmental consciousness. Under Pagano’s leadership, AMAALA has grown into a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable tourism development.

Innovative Developments and Milestones

In October 2023, Pagano unveiled a new milestone for RSG with the launch of Thuwal Private Retreat, an exclusive destination along the Red Sea coast. The retreat is designed to offer a secluded, high-end experience that aligns with the broader vision of creating sustainable, luxury destinations that prioritize environmental preservation. This new venture exemplifies Pagano’s unwavering commitment to blending luxury with sustainability, offering an unparalleled travel experience.

The developments are complemented by significant infrastructure projects, such as the Red Sea International Airport, which began receiving domestic flights in September 2023. As of February 2024, the airport has welcomed over 11,500 passengers, marking a key milestone in facilitating access to these luxury destinations. The airport is set to play a vital role in supporting the influx of tourists to the region, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s place as a premier global tourist destination.

A Proven Track Record of Success

Before his tenure at RSG, Pagano was the founder and leader of his own company, Old Fort Capital Investments Ltd., where he honed his skills in large-scale development and investment management. His ability to navigate complex projects and turn ambitious ideas into reality has been a hallmark of his career, whether in the private sector or through high-profile development projects.

Pagano’s extensive experience in the real estate and hospitality industries has equipped him with a unique ability to blend creativity, innovation, and sustainability into his projects. His work at RSG is a testament to his ability to lead complex, large-scale initiatives that align with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision of economic transformation through tourism and luxury development.

A Commitment to Sustainable Luxury

One of the defining characteristics of Pagano’s leadership at RSG is his unwavering commitment to sustainable development. Both The Red Sea and AMAALA projects are designed with environmental sustainability at their core, featuring renewable energy sources, waste management systems, and eco-friendly materials. These efforts reflect Pagano’s belief that luxury tourism must not only offer world-class experiences but also contribute positively to the environment and local communities.

As the global demand for sustainable tourism continues to grow, Pagano’s vision has positioned RSG as a leader in responsible tourism development. Through his leadership, the company is creating luxury destinations that showcase how environmental preservation and opulence can coexist, offering travelers an experience that is both indulgent and mindful of the planet’s well-being.

Shaping the Future of Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Landscape

Under Pagano’s leadership, RSG has made significant strides in transforming Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, attracting global attention to the country’s luxury and sustainable tourism offerings. His vision for The Red Sea and AMAALA is not just about building exclusive destinations; it’s about creating iconic, environmentally conscious spaces that will stand the test of time.

As Saudi Arabia continues to develop as a global tourism hub, Pagano’s contributions will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the country’s future tourism industry, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of luxury, sustainability, and innovation. His leadership will continue to drive the growth of RSG and solidify Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a premier destination for travelers seeking unique, high-end experiences in an environmentally responsible setting.