The Lungs of the Sea

“Seagrass is the lungs of the sea. Bubbles from the leaves of the seagrass provide oxygen for marine life,” Amgad explains. Unlike seaweed, which is an algae, seagrass is a true plant and is the only known species of flowering plant that has evolved to live completely submerged in saltwater.

Like mangroves, this essential vegetation is also a highly effective carbon sink, locking away carbon dioxide and helping to buffer the effects of climate change.

The health of the seagrass is deeply interconnected with the wider marine environment. Amgad stresses that these systems cannot be managed in isolation:

“Seagrass is not isolated from coral reefs and mangroves. They are completely connected. We need to ensure the three ecosystems are productive and thriving.”

This integrated, regenerative approach underpins all of the development decisions at RSG, which is committed to achieving a net conservation benefit at its destinations. The company’s master plan has already set aside the majority of The Red Sea destination’s island archipelago as undeveloped or protected areas, allowing these natural systems the space to flourish.

We follow Amgad and his team through the process of RSG’s pioneering seagrass transplantation and rescue initiative – the first of its kind in the Red Sea.

“The idea is to transplant tropical seagrasses from impacted spots to safe habitats to help this critical ecosystem and boost ecosystem services,” he says.

A member of our team surveys the seagrass meadows that help keep our marine ecosystems healthy and thriving.

A green sea turtle grazes across the seagrass meadows that serve as vital feeding grounds for marine wildlife.

A rare dugong glides through the water as a powerful reminder of why seagrass protection is central to our conservation work.

Conducting close-up assessments of seagrass density to better understand and safeguard these crucial carbon stores.

One of our team members prepares for a routine marine survey along The Red Sea’s coastline.

Aerial view of one of our island resorts, where sustainable design blends seamlessly with pristine Red Sea landscapes.

The team begin with surveys of the area using a drone. Amgad explains: “Before approaching our sites, we identify any marine animals on the surface. In particular some of the endangered species: dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles.”

This critical step is mandated to prevent vessel-related incidents. Slow-moving, protected animals – such as dugongs – must surface to breathe, making them highly vulnerable to being struck by vessels.

Their vigilance pays off: the team spotted a seaturtle surfacing. Their monitoring ensures they can stop work or reroute immediately, upholding RSG’s commitment to zero harm for the Red Sea's most vulnerable inhabitants.

The necessity of the seagrass work is quickly and tangibly proven by the life it sustains. On the drone monitor, Amgad and his team examine the shallow seabed, where they can see distinct, sweeping arcs visible in the meadows – the unmistakable feeding trails left behind by a foraging dugong.

“We have evidence that this spot is a feeding ground for the dugong,” Amgad notes, confirming the importance of their conservation work. “Without these habitats, we cannot see any of these animals.”

RSG’s approach allows The Red Sea and AMAALA destinations to offer a new model of regenerative tourism. Visitors can be confident that their luxury experience is not only designed in harmony with nature, but is actively contributing to the enhancement of one of the world's most precious marine environments.

For guests, this translates into truly unparalleled experiences. “I think it’s a very good opportunity for the guests to see something very special. It’s amazing!” Amjad concludes.

"Seagrass is the lungs of the sea. Bubbles from the leaves of the seagrass provide oxygen for marine life."
Amgad El Shaffai, Associate Director of Environmental Marine Programs at Red Sea Global