The SIIG Model is a replicable approach for others to achieve regenerative tourism

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind The Red Sea and AMAALA, today released its science-based model for delivering a 30% net conservation gain (NCG) across its regenerative destinations by 2040 – and it is making the framework publicly available for global adoption.

“From the beginning, we set out to make tourism better for people and planet. Today, for the first time, we are revealing in detail how we will achieve a 30% net conservation gain at The Red Sea and AMAALA. In addition, we are sharing our science-based model so that others can replicate our approach and help ensure a better environment for future generations.” John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global

At the core of RSG’s regenerative approach is its proprietary SIIG Model, which follows four interconnected and iterative steps:

- Survey: Establishing robust biodiversity baselines and tracking change through long-term monitoring.

- Identify: Pinpointing key risks and pressures affecting priority species and habitats.

- Intervene: Implementing targeted, evidence-based conservation actions, from fisheries regulation to habitat enhancement.

- Gain: Measuring and verifying biodiversity uplift through a dedicated conservation scoring system.

In its report published today, RSG details how the SIIG Model is being applied across The Red Sea and AMAALA, using one of the most comprehensive ecological baselines (2022 and 2023) ever developed for the region, covering eight priority marine habitats and species groups.

The roadmap consolidates ongoing and planned conservation actions and evaluates predicted outcomes against a no-action scenario, ensuring informed decision-making and optimized allocation of resources. 

For example, at The Red Sea, a cornerstone intervention is the establishment of the proposed Al Wajh Lagoon Fishery Management Area, spanning 5,015 km², comprising:

- 38% Conservation Priority Zones (including 62% of coral reefs)

- 61% Sustainable Fishing Zones

- 1% Special Management Areas

Modelling shows that removing fishing pressure in highly protected zones could increase reef fish populations by 113%, sharks and rays by 72%, and marine mammals by 24%.

These results point to strong recovery trajectories, with improved ecosystem functioning that supports coral health, seabirds, and marine megafauna. Additional ecosystem benefits include:

- Restoration of natural processes that enhance coral resilience and reduce anchoring damage

- Reduced risk of incidental capture of sea turtles

- Improved prey availability for seabirds

- Elimination of a key pathway for invasive species reaching sensitive island ecosystems

Other interventions detailed by RSG are expected to lead to net conservation gains across corals, red mangroves, seagrass, sea turtles, marine mammals and island birds. 

Ehab Al Kindi, Head of the Red Sea Zone at Red Sea Global, said: “Regeneration requires science, data, and measurable outcomes. The SIIG Model is our roadmap to restoring ecosystem health at scale, reducing pressures on nature and witnessing the measurable return of life, from nesting turtles to thriving coral communities.”

The full methodology is detailed in a new report titled ‘SIIG Model: the roadmap to achieving measurable conservation gains’.

Download the report https://bit.ly/4rVm5AG