In a press release issued today, Red Sea Global announced that The Red Sea has become the first destination ever to receive this distinction. The recognition follows a year of rigorous preparation and detailed assessments designed to elevate hospitality standards across the entire destination.
Working closely with Forbes Travel Guide, Red Sea Global developed and implemented exceptional service benchmarks covering five key stages of the guest journey: reservations, land transport, marine transport, air travel, and on-site experiences.
John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea Global, said the accreditation reflects the company’s belief that true luxury is defined by how guests feel throughout their journey, not simply by a destination’s natural beauty. He emphasized that the recognition represents a fully integrated, destination-wide service culture embedded across every team and operator touchpoint—going far beyond individual hotel standards.
Forbes Travel Guide
Hermann Elger, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide, congratulated Red Sea Global and The Red Sea team for earning the world’s first Verified Destination accreditation. He noted that delivering and maintaining service excellence at a destination scale requires deep commitment at every stage of the guest experience—from booking to departure—and described the achievement as a new international benchmark for tourism destinations.
To ensure consistent excellence, Red Sea Global established 182 detailed service standards grouped into eight core categories: personalized service, courtesy, efficiency, cleanliness, luxury, comfort, technical expertise, and professional presentation. Moreover, these standards are supported by a comprehensive framework encompassing training, communication, and ongoing performance reviews, ensuring guests experience seamless quality throughout the entire destination.
Alongside this milestone, the first resorts at The Red Sea were also recognized in this year’s Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards. Additionally, the honored properties include Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea, The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
Forbes Travel Guide’s ratings are globally respected for their objectivity and independence. Anonymous inspectors evaluate properties against hundreds of rigorous standards focused on service quality and facilities, while also assessing intangible elements such as a property’s ability to enhance well-being and create a strong sense of place through design and setting.
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