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UN Tourism Applauds Saudi Arabia's Historic Milestone of 100 Million Tourists

• All Regions
• 26 Feb 2024

In a testament to its strategic vision and robust sector growth, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has welcomed over 100 million tourists, marking a significant milestone in its journey to become a global tourism powerhouse.

In an exceptional achievement, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has welcomed over 100 million tourists , a milestone celebrated by the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). This remarkable accomplishment achieved seven years ahead of its original schedule, not only underscores Saudi Arabia's emergence as a global tourism powerhouse but also highlights its leading role in the economic diversification and sustainable development of the tourism sector worldwide. This milestone, marked by the arrival of over 27 million international tourists and over 79 million domestic tourists with a combined total spend of over USD 67 billion, not only showcases the Kingdom's robust tourism sector but also underscores the Saudi Ministry of Tourism's commitment to advanced data gathering and statistical analysis, a priority echoed by UN Tourism.

The Kingdom's success story is built on a foundation of strategic initiatives and reforms that have propelled its tourism sector to new heights. With a staggering 390% increase in demand for tourism activity licenses in 2023 and the contribution of tourism to the non-oil GVA estimated to exceed 7%, Saudi Arabia's vision for the future is clear. With the tourism sector's direct contribution to the GDP estimated to exceed  4 %, the country has showcased its resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Leadership

UN Tourism has closely collaborated with Saudi Arabia, recognizing its efforts in developing a robust tourism infrastructure and statistical analysis capabilities. The inauguration of UN Tourism's Regional Office for the Middle East in Riyadh in 2021 marked a significant step towards fostering tourism innovation, education, and rural development. This partnership has been instrumental in positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in sustainable tourism practices and statistical excellence.

Elevating its global position in the tourism sector, Saudi Arabia has distinguished itself by leading the G20 in international tourist growth rate in 2023 compared to 2019. This recognition underlines the Kingdom's pivotal role in the global tourism sector's recovery following the pandemic. Moreover, the Middle East has emerged as the sole region not only to rebound but also to outpace pre-pandemic tourism levels , with a 122 percent recovery in international tourist arrivals in 2023 compared to 2019. At the forefront of this remarkable growth, Saudi Arabia witnessed a staggering 156 percent recovery in international tourist arrivals compared to 2019, underscoring its central role in the region's tourism boom.

A Testament to Resilience and Innovation

The Kingdom's tourism sector has shown remarkable resilience, with inbound spending reaching over USD 37 billion in 2023 and a significant increase in hotel keys across the kingdom. These achievements are a testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to creating a prosperous and sustainable tourism sector.

Empowering the Workforce

The employment opportunities created by the tourism sector are a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's success. As of 2023, with 925.5 thousand jobs in the tourism sector and significant investments in training, the Kingdom is on track to make tourism the second-largest employer by 2030. This focus on workforce development ensures that the benefits of tourism growth are shared widely and sustainably.

Gratitude and Future Vision

UN Tourism extends its congratulations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this historic achievement. We commend the leadership, the Ministry of Tourism, and all partners for their unwavering support and dedication. As Saudi Arabia continues to drive towards its goal of 150 million tourists by 2030, UN Tourism looks forward to supporting its journey, celebrating its successes, and promoting a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive future for global tourism.

Saudi Arabia's achievement of welcoming over 100 million tourists in 2023 is a beacon of what is possible through collaboration, innovation, and a clear vision for the future. The Kingdom not only promises a diverse and rich tourism experience but delivers on that promise, paving the way for a brighter future for the global tourism industry.

Related links:

• Download the News Release on PDF
• International Tourism to Reach Pre-Pandemic Levels in 2024

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Saudi Arabia launches $11.2 billion tourism initiative, aims for 120,000 jobs

Saudi Arabia is launching a significant new initiative to boost its hospitality sector, aiming to create 120,000 jobs in tourism and attract roughly $11.2 billion in investment. The Kingdom’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel Al Khateeb has introduced the Tourism Investment Enablers Program, which is designed to facilitate business practices and make the country more attractive to both local and international investors. Working in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, the Ministry of Tourism has also announced the Hospitality Sector Investment Enablers Initiative as part of this ambitious program.

Introducing the Tourism Investment Enablers Program (TIEP) designed to support local and international investors in the tourism sector, attract investment and make doing business more seamless #AmbitionandProsperity pic.twitter.com/XPVkWArEmi — وزارة السياحة (@Saudi_MT) March 4, 2024

Read more: 45 percent of tourism sector employees in Saudi Arabia are women, says vice tourism minister

Projected revenues and contribution to GDP by 2030

The initiative ‘s main goal is to expand and diversify tourism offerings, increasing the capacity of hospitality facilities in specific tourist destinations throughout Saudi Arabia. It aims to attract investments worth approximately SAR42 billion (approximately $11.2 billion) in the hospitality sector, with projected revenues of about SAR16 billion ($4.26 billion) contributing to the country’s GDP by 2030.

Al Khateeb also expressed that Saudi Arabia possesses rich and diverse tourism resources, making its tourism industry appealing on a global scale. He emphasized that the country’s Vision 2030 outlines the roadmap for becoming a sought-after global destination, recognizing the tourism sector as a key driver of the national economy. Al Khateeb also highlighted the significant increase in demand for tourism activity licenses in the past year, indicating the Kingdom’s substantial investment in the tourism sector over the next decade. This investment will provide opportunities and a favorable investment environment for both local and international investors.

Enablers for cost and ease of doing business

The initiative further encompasses various enablers strategically designed to improve the cost and ease of doing business. These measures include facilitating access to government lands under favorable conditions, streamlining project development processes, addressing investor challenges, and developing laws to reduce operational costs, all aimed at fostering growth in the tourism industry. The initiative is expected to have numerous social and economic benefits, including the creation of approximately 42,000 new hotel rooms and around 120,000 job opportunities in targeted destinations by 2030. This will have a positive impact on talent development and support efforts to increase local employment.

For more news on hospitality & tourism, click  here .

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Saudi Arabia leads in commitment to sustainable tourism

The kingdom has seen record-breaking growth within the travel sector this year.

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea destination has begun welcoming its first tourists. Photo: Red Sea Global

Saudi Arabia has become a “must-see destination”, Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, said in Riyadh during the opening ceremony of World Tourism Day this weekend.

“This is a country that always looks forward, and in big ways,” he continued. “Saudi Arabia is now the second-biggest place for foreign direct investment projects in all the Middle East and Africa. I’m proud to say we count on the support of Saudi Arabia.”

The UNWTO has celebrated World Tourism Day in September since 1980. Every year, world leaders meet to discuss objectives and milestones to further boost the tourism sector, and this year was no different as about 500 top officials from 145 countries convened at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh to talk about the industry's latest developments, with a focus on sustainability, humanity and prosperity.

Winston Duke speaks in Saudi Arabia for World Tourism Day

“This World Tourism Day, we focus on the vital need to invest in building a more sustainable sector for people, planet and prosperity,” said Pololikashvili. “The day also makes clear why UNWTO underscores the need for investment in education and for greater innovation as the foundations for long-term growth and transformation.”

The kingdom's dynamic tourism industry was also under the microscope, as leaders congratulated the country on its vision and discussed issues of climate change, governance and empowering people across the world.

Saudi Arabia is the chair of the UNWTO Executive Council this year as Riyadh is home to the organisation's first regional office for the Middle East. Last year, Saudi Arabia also hosted the 116th session of the UNWTO Executive Council with a focus on advancing sustainability across the board, from governance to investing in infrastructure and youth.

The fastest growth in the Middle East

Around the world, the tourism sector accounts for 1 in 10 jobs, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) said, although it's an industry that was significantly affected by the pandemic. Saudi Arabia, however, has seen unprecedented growth over the past few years, since it opened its borders to recreational visitors.

“Since embarking on our tourism journey, Saudi Arabia has been committed to enhancing the sector and generating an impact that extends beyond borders,” said Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al Khateeb.

Fahd Hamidaddin, chief executive of Saudi Tourism Authority, said the country is “blessed to experience a growth like no other”.

“The last seven months have seen a record-breaking growth for Saudi Arabia. We are experiencing an economic revolution … and all of this is a manifestation of a new leadership,” he said.

The value of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is expected to reach $93.4 billion in 2023, said Arnold Donald, chairman of WTTC. He said it makes up 10 per cent of Saudi Arabia’s GDP and they expect the sector to “grow at the fastest pace in the Middle East”.

By 2030, the country hopes to welcome more than 100 million visitors annually.

The sector will also add one million jobs over the next 10 years, the Ministry of Tourism announced earlier this month. At the event, Al Khateeb also unveiled plans for the Riyadh School for Tourism and Hospitality, an ambitious project that will cost more than $1 billion. It aims to be a student-centric facility, which will span five million square metres in Qiddiya and offer a hybrid curriculum that aims to bridge the global tourism skills gap.

“The Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality is Saudi Arabia’s gift to the world,” he said. “Through its pioneering curriculum, that will offer comprehensive higher education courses covering all aspects of the tourism and hospitality industry, the school represents Saudi Arabia’s commitment to providing comprehensive, progressive education that empowers individuals, both domestically and internationally.

“As we invest in the next generation of tourism professionals, we are not only securing the industry’s future, but also fostering a legacy of excellence that will drive prosperity, stimulate individual growth of citizens and foster cultural exchange for years to come.”

Saudi Vision 2030 focuses on sustainability and regenerative tourism

The $500 billion megacity Neom in Tabuk , north-western Saudi Arabia, will be the country's first city to have zero carbon emissions and 95 per cent of the development will remain untouched for nature and conservation.

Sunset in Neom's Hisma Desert. All photos: Getty Images / Unsplash

In a major step in Saudi Arabia's shift away from an oil-based economy, Neom will also be powered entirely by clean energy, with no carbon-emitting vehicles.

Elsewhere, Red Sea Global is pioneering regenerative tourism with its Red Sea project, located on Saudi Arabia's western coast, as it aims to preserve the kingdom's pristine and untouched waters, coast and to further enhance coral reefs. The development, which is already in the first stage of opening , spans 28,000 square kilometres of land, including an archipelago of more than 90 islands, promising turquoise-lined coastlines, unrivalled marine life and a variety of upscale accommodation options.

The under-construction King Salman International Airport in Riyadh will also incorporate green technology in its design and aims to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) platinum certification, the Saudi Press Agency said, which means it generates less waste, consumes less energy, water and other resources, making it more resilient and environmentally friendly.

A sustainable hospitality industry

Hotels in the kingdom have also aligned with the Saudi Vision 2030, to lead and build with the most sustainable practices.

Guests are paying more attention than ever to how a hotel leaves its mark on the world around it, with an increasing number deciding to book a stay based on a property’s carbon footprint and how it supports the communities in which it operates, said Haitham Mattar, managing director at IHG Hotels & Resorts, which currently operates 40 hotels across Saudi Arabia.

“New destinations such as the Red Sea Development and Neom, for example, are incorporating key initiatives to ensure environmental sustainability.

“With a massive footprint across the globe, the tourism and hospitality sectors play an important role in working towards a sustainable future. As one of the world’s leading hotel companies, we embrace our responsibility and opportunity to make a positive difference and help shape the future of responsible travel.”

Guenter Gebhard, regional vice president and general manager at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, told The National on the sidelines at World Tourism Day that the hotel takes its sustainability initiatives seriously. “The hotel does not use plastic water bottles, we only use glass. We will have a hydroponic plantation, we will start growing tomato, salads, herbs and more higher up rather than on ground,” he explained.

“We have changed our lighting systems into LED to reduce our electricity load and we intend to do the same with ACs,” he added. “We're just finishing off our water bottling plant, which will go active hopefully by either December this year or January of next year. That means we're not even bringing water in any more. We have our own water purification system – that will then be bottled as still and sparkling and will go out into the restaurants and into the rooms. This will be free.”

Radisson Hotel Group also aims to remain steadfast in its commitment to a sustainable future, with a goal to become net zero by 2050, said Basel Talal, the group's managing director for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the Levant.

Park Inn by Radisson Makkah Al Naseem hotel, for example, utilises a state-of-the-art food recycling system, transforming 75kg of daily food waste into organic compost, reducing waste volume by about 90 per cent.

“It is imperative to strategise on how tourism can be a catalyst for fostering opportunities for people, spearheading a green transformation, and manifesting sustainability for the planet, thus paving the way for inclusive prosperity,” said Talal.

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Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Tourism Vision: Targeting 150 Million Visitors by 2030

Nasser Alshareef

*By: Dr . Nasser Alshareef

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector has been experiencing rapid growth and has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism destinations. Certainly! Saudi Arabia’s focus on contributing to local development investment aligns with its vision to become the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination. By focusing on local development investment, Saudi Arabia ensures that the growth of its tourism sector benefits the local communities, contributes to their economic well-being, and preserves their cultural heritage. This approach not only positions Saudi Arabia as the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination but also creates a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry that positively impacts the lives of its people. The country’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, has set an ambitious goal of attracting 150 million visitors by the year 2030. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has undertaken significant efforts to develop its tourism industry and open its doors to international visitors. The kingdom has implemented various initiatives and reforms to enhance its tourism infrastructure, improve accessibility, and promote its rich cultural heritage and natural attractions.

One of the key drivers of Saudi Arabia’s tourism growth is the Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the country’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil revenue. The plan recognizes tourism as a vital sector with immense potential for job creation and economic development. It focuses on developing tourist destinations, building world-class attractions, and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Saudi Arabia boasts a wealth of cultural and historical sites, including UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the ancient Nabatean city of Al-Ula, the rock art of Hail, and the historic areas of Jeddah. The kingdom is also home to stunning natural landscapes, such as the Red Sea coast, the Empty Quarter desert, and the Asir Mountains, offering opportunities for adventure tourism, ecotourism, and wellness tourism.

اقرأ المزيد

Building a better saudi arabia: vision 2030 shaping economy, attracting fdi, and ensuring sustainable prosperity, new horizons in leadership: empathy and agility, the artificial intelligence revolution and the opportunities and challenges of the labor market.

To attract a diverse range of visitors, Saudi Arabia has been actively promoting its cultural festivals, sports events, and entertainment industry. The country has hosted high-profile events like the Formula E Championship, the Dakar Rally, and the Riyadh Season, which have garnered international attention and showcased Saudi Arabia’s potential as a vibrant tourism destination. In addition to the development of physical infrastructure, Saudi Arabia has made efforts to simplify visa processes and improve overall visitor experiences. The introduction of the e-visa system and the expansion of visa-on-arrival options have made it easier for tourists to enter the country. Moreover, Saudi Arabia has been investing in the hospitality sector, with the development of new hotels, resorts, and luxury accommodations. The country aims to provide a wide range of options to cater to different visitor preferences and budgets.

Saudi Arabia Can Create an Attractive Investment Climate in the Tourism Sector, attracting domestic and international investors to contribute to the country’s tourism development goals and unlock the full potential of its rich cultural and natural heritage. Attracting investment in the field of tourism in Saudi Arabia is crucial for the country’s ambitious plans to develop a thriving tourism sector. Here are some key points on how Saudi Arabia can attract investment in this field:

• Tourism Investment Incentives: Saudi Arabia can offer attractive investment incentives to encourage both local and foreign investors. These incentives may include tax breaks, financial subsidies, streamlined bureaucratic processes, and simplified regulations for setting up tourism-related businesses.
• Public-Private Partnerships: The government can foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) to encourage investment in tourism infrastructure and development projects. By partnering with private companies, the government can share risks and attract more investment capital for large-scale projects such as hotel construction, theme parks, and transportation infrastructure.
• Showcase Investment Opportunities: Saudi Arabia should actively promote its investment opportunities in the tourism sector through marketing campaigns, investment forums, and participation in international trade shows and exhibitions. Highlighting the potential returns on investment, the country’s unique attractions, and the supportive business environment can attract the attention of global investors.
• Infrastructure Development: Investing in tourism infrastructure is essential to attract visitors and support the growth of the sector. Saudi Arabia can focus on developing transportation networks, including airports, roads, and public transportation systems, to improve accessibility to tourist destinations. Additionally, investing in utilities, such as electricity, water, and telecommunications, is crucial to support the development of tourism-related projects.
• Skills Development and Training : To support the growth of the tourism sector, Saudi Arabia can invest in training programs and vocational education to develop a skilled workforce. This will ensure that the local workforce has the necessary skills to meet the demands of the expanding tourism industry and enhance the quality of services provided to visitors.
• Sustainable Tourism Practices: Emphasizing sustainable tourism practices can be an attractive proposition for environmentally conscious investors. Saudi Arabia can encourage investments in eco-friendly accommodations, renewable energy projects, waste management systems, and initiatives that promote the conservation and preservation of natural and cultural heritage sites.
• Promote Investment in Niche Markets: Saudi Arabia can highlight investment opportunities in niche tourism markets, such as adventure tourism, wellness tourism, heritage tourism, and luxury travel. By targeting specific market segments, the country can attract investors who specialize in these areas and cater to the evolving preferences of travelers.

Saudi Arabia Achieves 156% Growth in international Arrivals in 2023 Compared to 2019,

Source: UNWTO Report

Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Tourism Projects Attract Foreign Investment

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious tourism projects have successfully attracted foreign investment, contributing to the growth and development of the country’s tourism sector. Here are some key points on how these projects have attracted foreign investment:

• Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil, has placed a strong emphasis on developing the tourism sector. This long-term vision has attracted the attention of foreign investors who see the potential for growth and opportunities in the Saudi tourism market.
• Mega Projects: Saudi Arabia has launched several mega tourism projects, such as NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya, which have captured the interest of international investors. These projects offer significant investment opportunities in areas such as hospitality, entertainment, infrastructure, and real estate development.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): The Saudi government has actively pursued public-private partnerships to develop tourism projects. These partnerships provide a platform for foreign investors to collaborate with the government and share both the risks and rewards. PPPs offer attractive investment frameworks and opportunities for foreign companies to contribute their expertise and capital.
• Regulatory Reforms: Saudi Arabia has implemented regulatory reforms to create a more favorable business environment for foreign investors. These reforms include easing restrictions on foreign ownership, simplifying licensing procedures, and providing incentives such as tax exemptions and reduced fees. These investor-friendly regulations have encouraged foreign companies to invest in the Saudi tourism sector.
• Infrastructure Development: Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in infrastructure development to support the growth of the tourism sector. This includes the construction of airports, highways, and other transportation networks, as well as the development of utilities and tourist-friendly amenities. The availability of modern infrastructure enhances the attractiveness of Saudi Arabia as an investment destination.
• Market Potential: Foreign investors recognize the vast market potential of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. The country has a large and young population, rising disposable incomes, and a strategic location that enables it to attract tourists from both regional and international markets. This market potential, coupled with the government’s commitment to tourism development, makes Saudi Arabia an attractive investment destination.
• Cultural and Heritage Assets: Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and heritage assets, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and historical landmarks, are major attractions for tourists. Foreign investors see the potential in developing tourism projects that highlight these assets, such as heritage hotels, cultural centers, and immersive experiences. The preservation and promotion of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage create investment opportunities for foreign companies specializing in heritage tourism.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a commitment to sustainable tourism practices. The development of eco-friendly projects and the preservation of natural resources are key factors that attract foreign investors interested in sustainable tourism. Initiatives such as renewable energy projects, waste management systems, and conservation efforts create opportunities for investment in green tourism projects.

By offering attractive investment opportunities, implementing regulatory reforms, and showcasing its unique assets, Saudi Arabia has successfully attracted foreign investment in its ambitious tourism projects. These investments contribute to the growth and development of the tourism sector, create job opportunities, and position Saudi Arabia as a competitive destination on the global tourism map. The tourism sector’s growth in Saudi Arabia is expected to have a significant positive impact on the country’s economy, creating employment opportunities for the local population and generating revenue from tourist spending. It will also contribute to the preservation and promotion of Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage, fostering cross-cultural exchanges and promoting global understanding. The revamped regulations have played a significant role in attracting investments to the Saudi tourism sector. The resulting influx of capital has fueled the development of tourism infrastructure, enhanced the visitor experience, and positioned Saudi Arabia as a competitive tourism destination on the global stage.

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is poised for significant growth and development in the next decade. With its status as the world’s fastest-growing tourism destination, the country has captured the attention of global travelers. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its tourism sector and implement its ambitious plans, it is poised to become a leading global tourism destination in the next decade, attracting millions of visitors and offering unique experiences that showcase its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. By leveraging its unique assets, implementing strategic marketing campaigns, and fostering partnerships with international travel organizations, Saudi Arabia has the potential to become a top choice for travelers from around the world. The next decade holds immense potential for Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector, paving the way for economic growth, cultural exchange, and global recognition.

*Dr. Nasser Alshareef

Advisor-General Department of Investment and Privatization, Ministry of Education (MoE), Saudi Arabia.

@DrNasserAlshar1

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Inside Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Ambitions

Saudi Tourism Authority + Skift

February 13th, 2024 at 9:45 AM EST

Saudi Arabia wants to welcome 150 million visitors by 2030. In the first episode of a new limited-series podcast, Skift speaks with Saudi Tourism Authority’s Hazim Al-Hazmi about the marketing strategy helping make this happen.

Saudi Tourism Authority

This sponsored content was created in collaboration with a Skift partner.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, announced in 2016, outlines a comprehensive economic transformation plan, with tourism as a central pillar . In the first episode of the Skift Travel Spotlight, Skift Creative Strategist Kate Anderson spoke with Hazim Al-Hazmi, President, Europe & Americas, Saudi Tourism Authority, to discuss progress towards Vision 2030 goals and how he sees tourism shaping the country going forward.

In this podcast:

Revised Tourism Goals : Why the Saudi Ministry of Tourism has upped its already ambitious 2030 tourism target by another 50 million visitors and how it plans to reach this significant milestone.

Global Market Engagement : Insights on Saudi Arabia’s marketing strategy to Europe and the Americas and why their influence in shaping global travel trends makes them such key markets.

Diverse Experiential Offerings : Details on what visitors to Saudi Arabia can expect beyond its renowned desert landscapes, from coastal adventures along the Red Sea to cultural immersion in historical sites like Diriyah.

Connectivity and Marketing Initiatives : Insights into Saudi’s connectivity strategy, including plans for new airline routes and strategic partnerships to facilitate seamless access for travelers.

This content was created collaboratively by Saudi Tourism Authority and Skift’s branded content studio, SkiftX .

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: saudi arabia , Saudi Vision 2030 , skift podcast

Saudi Arabia welcomes over 100 million tourists in 2023, surpasses Vision 2030 targets

Saudi Arabia celebrated a monumental tourism milestone as it welcomed over 100 million tourists in 2023, surpassing Vision 2030 expectations seven years ahead of schedule. This extraordinary achievement, acknowledged by the  UN World Tourism Organization , underscores the Kingdom’s ascent as a leading force in the global tourism landscape.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism revealed that the Kingdom welcomed 27.4 million international tourists last year. This marks a notable 65 percent increase compared to 2022. Moreover, it welcomed 79.3 million domestic tourists as well, marking a 2 percent increase compared to 2022.

Economic diversification

Collectively, both international and domestic tourists spent more than SAR250 billion ($67 billion). This constitutes over 4 percent of Saudi Arabia’s total gross domestic product (GDP) and 7 percent of its non-oil GDP.

Saudi Arabia’s tourism growth is attributed to its strategic initiatives and reforms that have propelled its tourism sector to new heights. The demand for tourism activity licenses in 2023 surged by 390 percent. Moreover, the contribution of tourism to the non-oil gross value added (GVA) exceeded 7 percent.

The UN Tourism and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) extended their congratulations to Saudi Arabia for surpassing one of #SaudiVision2030 goals of welcoming over 100 million tourists in 2023, seven years ahead of schedule. This achievement underscores the dedicated… pic.twitter.com/f560N8r2q1 — وزارة السياحة (@Saudi_MT) February 27, 2024

Strategic initiatives

UN Tourism’s collaboration with Saudi Arabia has been instrumental in positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in sustainable tourism practices and statistical excellence. Moreover, the inauguration of UN Tourism’s regional office for the Middle East in Riyadh in 2021 marked a significant step towards fostering tourism innovation, education, and rural development.

Saudi Arabia has led the G20 in international tourist growth rate in 2023. It also spearheaded the Middle East’s tourism recovery post-pandemic. Moreover, the Middle East has emerged as the only region not only to rebound but also to outpace pre-pandemic tourism levels. Its rate of recovery in international tourist arrivals in 2023 was 122 percent compared to 2019. Particularly, the Kingdom witnessed a staggering 156 percent recovery in international tourist arrivals compared to 2019, underscoring its vital role in the region’s tourism boom.

Read: NEOM expands its vision with Elanan: A sustainable nature retreat

Resilience and innovation

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector demonstrates remarkable resilience, with inbound spending surpassing $37 billion in 2023 and significant growth in hotel infrastructure. These achievements reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to creating a prosperous and sustainable tourism sector through innovation and adaptation.

Notably, employment opportunities in the tourism sector play a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s success, with plans to make tourism the second-largest employer by 2030. With over 925,500 jobs created and investments in workforce development, the Kingdom ensures equitable distribution of tourism’s benefits.

As Saudi Arabia aims to welcome 150 million tourists by 2030, UN Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s journey. Collaboration, innovation, and a clear vision for the future continue to drive Saudi Arabia’s tourism success, promising a brighter future for global tourism.

For more news on hospitality & tourism, click  here .

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Opening Up To The World: Saudi Arabia's Tourism Goals Gateway industries such as tourism, local manufacturing and smart services are generating jobs for future Saudi youth –and for the first time– opening Saudi Arabia to the world.

Aug 7, 2022

You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

This article is a part of Bringing the World to Saudi , a special report sponsored by Saudia and developed by Entrepreneur Middle East in partnership with Lucidity Insights.

In 2016, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that it was embarking on a unique and transformative economic and social reform called Saudi Vision 2030 that would open up Saudi Arabia to the world.

Vision 2030 is a deeply ambitious plan to unlock the Kingdom's vast potential, by creating a diversified, innovative, and world-leading nation. It has been designed to free the Kingdom from its dependence on oil exports, ushering in a new era of economic diversification and opportunity, driven by investment into key strategic sectors.

Vision 2030 works on three major areas of focus: creating a vibrant society, developing a thriving economy, and ensuring an ambitious nation. To shed light on just how far-reaching the implications of implementing the strategy across the country, here is just a small sample of the many ambitions set out in the Vision 2030:

To increase the share of non-oil exports in non-oil gross domestic product (GDP) from 16% to 50%. Non-oil revenues in the Kingdom have grown from US$45 billion in 2015 to $98.3 billion in 2020; though 2020 was a contraction year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the collapse of oil prices, non-oil revenues made up 47% of the government's revenues, the highest portion in Saudi's recent history.

Have three Saudi cities recognized in the top 100 cities in the world by 2030

To increase capacity to welcome 30 million religious pilgrims by 2030 (up from 8 million pilgrims received in 2016); in 2019, Saudi welcomed over 21.66 million domestic and foreign pilgrims to Mecca)

To increase private sector contribution to GDP to 65% by 2030 (from 40% in 2016). Since 2016, the Kingdom has seen a 40% rise in the number of SMEs, and 16% growth in industrial sector investment.

To lower unemployment from 11.6% to 7% by 2030. After a few years of rising unemployment, reaching a high of 13.7% in 2020, the Kingdom has managed to lower unemployment down to 11.3% by Q3 2021.

To increase women's participation in the workforce from 22% to 30%. Saudi Arabia has already met this 2030 target by 2020-year-end, when women's employment soared to 33%, driven primarily by the private sector. By Q3 2021, the figure had risen again to 34.1%. Furthermore, 38% of all small and medium sized businesses in the Kingdom are owned and operated by women.

To increase Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund Public Investment Fund's (PIF) assets from SAR600 billion to SAR7 trillion (equivalent to nearly $1.9 trillion). By 2020-year-end, PIF had $400 billion assets under management.

To increase the ratio of individuals exercising at least one time a week to 40% by 2030 (from 13% in 2016). By 2020, >1,000 education and recreation clubs were established in the Kingdom, with more than 1.7 million residents utilizing their services.

To increase average life expectancy from 74 to 80 years.

To raise the Saudi government's ranking in the Government Effectiveness Index from 80th place to 20th place globally. In 2019, Saudi was ranked in 64th place.

To rally one million volunteers a year, up from 11,000 in 2016. 409,000 volunteers were engaged in 2020, and 84% of Saudi youth have expressed a strong desire to partake in volunteering opportunities in a poll conducted at the end of 2020.

To increase FDI from 3.8% to the international level of 5.7% GDP. Saudi Arabia has already witnessed foreign investment triple from $1.42 billion USD in 2016 to $4.7 billion in 2020.

To achieve the Vision 2030 objectives, a series of programs have been designed to translate the Vision's aims into action. These Vision Realization Programs act to bring key deliverables of the blueprint to life, in wide-ranging areas from fiscal sustainability to Saudi citizen's quality of life. Five years has passed since launching Vision 2030, and the Kingdom has delivered a wave of reforms that have transformed society, with particular benefits to women and youth, and economy– accelerating the growth of the non-oil economy. Gateway industries such as tourism, local manufacturing and smart services are generating jobs for future Saudi youth –and for the first time– opening Saudi Arabia to the world.

OPENING SAUDI ARABIA UP TO THE WORLD

One of the key strategic sectors for development mapped out in Saudi's Vision 2030 is tourism. By 2030, the Kingdom expects tourism to account for 10% of GDP (up from the current 3%), creating a new tourism economy in the Kingdom that will generate at least one million new jobs for Saudi youth.

Job creation is a critical strategic driver for the Kingdom and underpins many of the strategic objectives outlined in Vision 2030, as Saudi Arabia is a youthful population with what economists call a "youth bulge". This refers to the incoming young Saudis graduating from secondary and tertiary education that will be hungry for jobs– in a job market that needs to more than double the number of jobs available since 2016 by 2030, the number of jobs available in Saudi Arabia needs to increase even more significantly, when we consider the successful drive for Saudi to engage women in the workforce. In 2010, only 55,000 Saudi women were participating in the private sector workforce; at the end of 2021, nearly one million Saudi women were working in the private sector, and the percentage of women in the workforce is climbing steadily. In 2016, only 19% of the workforce in Saudi were women. In 2021, that number has climbed to over 34%.

There are many stakeholders responsible for stewarding the National Tourism Development Strategy in Saudi Arabia. All are working together to coordinate strategic implementation of initiatives to achieve the targets set out in Vision 2030. Coordination activities are across public and private sector entities, covering strategic direction, regulation, tourism development investment, transportation and logistics infrastructure development and management, branding and promotion, visitor experience, and many other initiatives.

Developing the tourism sector in the Kingdom directly and indirectly supports the achievement of many key strategic objectives of Vision 2030, as highlighted in the figure below. Tourism will strengthen Islamic values and national identity by promoting the Kingdom as a religious destination for over 30 million pilgrims annually, strengthen the private sector (which will be the main driver of future new job growth), attract foreign direct investment, and contribute to one million new tourism jobs, driving youth employment.

Today, Saudi Arabia's tourism economy employs just over half a million people, of which 22% are roles filled by Saudi nationals. Tourism will also, of course, contribute to government non-oil revenues, as a cornerstone of the Kingdom's economic diversification plan. Saudi Arabia aims to become one of the top global tourism destinations by 2030, welcoming over 100 million overnight visitors annually.

PUTTING MONEY WHERE THEIR MOUTH IS

As the entrepreneurial adage goes, "you must spend money, to make money," and in order for the Kingdom to increase tourism's contribution to the national GDP from 3% to 10% by 2030, the Kingdom is putting money where its mouth is. In less than a year of being established, the Saudi Tourism Development Fund stated that it had deployed $533 million on tourism projects worth a total of over $2 billion; the fund was initially established with $4 billion for investment.

Meanwhile, the PIF has announced a five-year strategy that aims to invest $40 billion each year into the domestic economy until 2025, with 1.8 million jobs expected to be created. Many, though not all, of PIF's investments are geared towards tourism development projects. In late 2021, the Minister of Tourism, H.E. Ahmed Al Khateeb, publicly announced that the Kingdom had committed to spend $1 trillion towards tourism projects over the next 10 years.

With this investment and the various tourism initiatives across the country, Saudi Arabia is looking for a return on investment that would see an increase of more than 5x on 2018 tourism spend in the Kingdom and contribute 10% to the Kingdom's GDP. In following with global tourism trends, the Kingdom expects more than half of those tourism revenues to come from leisure tourism– a tourism sector that was barely existent in the country a few short years ago.

Though Saudi Arabia is new to opening its borders to the general international public, the Kingdom's religious tourism has thrived for thousands of years. Once a year, Muslims of every ethnic group, color, social status, and culture gather in Mecca, the holiest site in Islam, and worship together. By no means is "welcoming foreigners" a new concept in Saudi. In 2019, Saudi Arabia welcomed over 21 million Muslim pilgrims inside its borders for Hajj and Umrah. Due to the prominence of these pilgrimages, the city of Mecca regularly lands itself on Mastercard's Global Destination Cities Index. In the 2019 ranking (which covers 2018 figures), Mecca was ranked as the 13th most visited city in the world, with 10 million overnight visitors, and ranked second for international visitor spend, at over $20 billion.

In September 2019, Saudi Arabia opened its doors to the world for the first time, as one of the few "final frontiers" of tourism. Prior to this, besides Muslim pilgrims, only business travelers invited by Saudi companies and organizations could gain entry to the Kingdom on a business visa. Within the first four months of accepting tourism visa applications, more than 300,000 applications were filed.

Unfortunately, shortly after the "grand opening," the newly opened borders were then subsequently closed in 2020, along with most of the borders around the world, due to the Covid19 Pandemic that affected mobility globally. Despite this, the Saudi Tourism Authority says that Saudi Arabia was able to garner 5% of its tourism revenue from the leisure tourism sector in 2019. In fact, Saudi Arabia's Tourism Minister told Bloomberg TV in an October 2021 interview that the country was on track to have tourism contribute to 4% of its GDP that year.

Related: Driving Economies: Breaking Down The Significance Of The Global Tourism Industry

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Saudi Tourism Authority initiatives boost tourism with cultural immersion

Friday, March 8, 2024 Favorite

During a recent trade roadshow in Kuala Lumpur, the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) disclosed a plethora of initiatives, collaborating with an array of 18 Saudi entities encompassing destination management companies, hotels, transportation allies, and travel agencies. These efforts are designed to tap into the leisure market, underscore Saudi’s dedication to Malaysian visitors, and herald Saudi Arabia’s openness to international tourists. This initiative is a crucial step toward fulfilling Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030” ambitions, which include the goal of attracting 150 million visitors annually by the decade’s end.

The initiatives also highlighted the aviation sector’s pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s tourism infrastructure, showcasing it as a conduit to the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Notably, over the past year, airline capacity has swelled, with more than 700,000 seats available across three major airlines—Air Asia X, Malaysia Airlines, and Saudia. Plans are underway to further amplify flight frequencies to meet the escalating travel demand.

A key announcement during the roadshow was the introduction of enhanced Umrah+ packages for Malaysian pilgrims, facilitated through the “Nusuk” platform. This initiative is poised to streamline the e-visa application process and offer meticulously curated experiences, encouraging Malaysians to delve into Saudi’s cultural depth, historical richness, diverse landscapes, and unique events and festivals. The Nusuk platform stands as the inaugural official channel for planning, booking, and experiencing journeys to Makkah, Madinah, and beyond, tailored specifically for Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages.

Furthermore, STA emphasized the broad spectrum of tourism experiences Saudi Arabia has to offer to Malaysian travelers, ranging from cultural and historical explorations to natural wonders. With seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites and over 10,000 archaeological sites, Saudi Arabia is a goldmine for those keen on historical ventures. Places like Historic Jeddah, At Turaif in Diriyah, and Al Hijr (Madain Salih) in AlUla provide a deep dive into the nation’s heritage.

Saudi Arabia also stands out as a leading leisure destination with iconic landmarks such as VIA Riyadh and Bujairi Terrace, offering a perfect mix of cultural immersion and luxury. Additionally, exclusive events and festivals like Riyadh Season, AlUla Skies Festival, and the winter celebration at Tantora present unique opportunities for cultural festivities and entertainment, promising memorable experiences for travelers.

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Privacy Overview

Saudi Arabia eyes aviation expansion to get in on crucial tourism market

Making up for lost time, the kingdom is moving to challenge regional players, attract travellers and boost its income.

Saudi Arabia has concluded a successful Hajj season, an annual event that, along with year-round Umrah pilgrimages, makes the kingdom an estimated $12bn.

So far, religious pilgrimages and going there for work are the main reasons people think of when travelling to Saudi Arabia is mentioned.

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Even for those trips, visas were hard to get, and the kingdom did not have a reputation as a tourist destination. Saudi Arabia has been known instead for being a deeply conservative country that has been criticised on human rights grounds.

But as travel continues to pick up in a post-pandemic world, the kingdom is working to increase its income from tourism as well as transporting people and goods.

To do that, it is showcasing a more relaxed side to the world, promoting its tourist destinations, and simplifying entry requirements.

It is also planning to replace one of its busiest airports, the capital Riyadh’s King Khalid Airport, with the massive King Salman International.

Quadrupling capacity, fast

These developments are part of Vision 2030, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s (MBS) signature project to get his country away from a reliance on oil revenues and diversify its economy.

Billions are going into developing ancient sites like Hegra (Madain Salih) and al-Ula, as well as coastal and desert destinations, to attract luxury-seeking tourists and those who want to explore lesser-known locations, according to Charles Phillips, an Oxford-based researcher and consultant.

“The government is highly committed to the sector’s development – and it knows that with Saudi Arabia’s incredible and diverse landscapes, tourism could be big,” Phillips told Al Jazeera.

But, in the past, visiting sites like Hegra – built by the Nabateans and reminiscent of their more famous capital Petra – was discouraged because of associations with idolatry in this conservative nation.

In addition, “so far, the Saudi infrastructure, especially airports, [does] not have the capacity to entertain the amount of traffic Saudi needs to be a real diversified economy,” said Alghashian Aziz Alghasian, a fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.

But Saudi Arabia’s plans to build over King Khalid International, which has a capacity of about 25 million passengers a year, and replace it with the massive King Salman International will mean that Riyadh city will be able to accommodate 120 million passengers a year by 2030.

While King Salman International will be smaller in size than Saudi Arabia’s own King Fahad International in Dammam, it will be among the biggest in the world and will be far busier than King Fahad, and is expected to bring in an additional $7.18bn annually to the kingdom’s non-oil GDP.

“[The airport is] one of several projects designed to propel the country into rapidly globalising markets,” said Joseph A Kechichian, a senior fellow at the King Faisal Centre for Research and Islamic Studies in Riyadh.

“For a country that has long been seen as a closed-off society and unknown destination, expanding connectivity with the rest of the world and increasing the ability to bring people to Saudi Arabia will be very important,” explained Phillips.

Competing regionally, but differently

To date, the busiest airports in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the vision for King Salman International is to not only compete with Doha’s Hamad International and Dubai International but surpass them.

“In order for many flights to reach both Doha [and] Dubai, they need to travel over Saudi airspace,” said Alghashian. “The reason why Saudi cities were never real hubs was that the infrastructure and opportunities were not there, and that is what the crown prince is doing – generating the opportunities.”

Qatar and the UAE – followed by Bahrain and Oman – have created top-tier air facilities that serve Qatar Airways, Emirates Airlines, Etihad, Gulf Air and Oman Air.

Qatar and the UAE have greatly benefitted from being hubs for international travel, with their airlines earning Doha, Abu Dhabi and Dubai global recognition in the aviation sector.

Earlier this year, the kingdom announced that it would be launching a second national airline as well, Riyadh Air, which will be based at King Salman International and will be reportedly headed by the former CEO of Etihad, Abu Dhabi’s airline.

King Salman International and Riyadh Air will potentially bring Saudi Arabia the same benefits being enjoyed by its smaller neighbours. Given the kingdom’s significantly larger population and size, it would not be mostly transit traffic, rather it would “chiefly accommodate the burgeoning population and, secondarily, all the expected tourists”, explained Kechichian.

Saudi officials stress that the new airport’s design incorporates green initiatives while the Saudi Press Agency reports that renewable energy will power the airport’s facilities too.

“As planned, this massive project ticks all the boxes in terms of the kingdom’s efforts to diversify the economy, contribute to a ‘green future’, and expand employment opportunities for the country’s burgeoning youth population,” John Calabrese, director of the Middle East-Asia Project at the Middle East Institute, told Al Jazeera.

“It can also serve to complement and support other sectors,” Calabrese added. “Presumably, the new airport will be equipped with a large cargo capacity, which would dovetail with the kingdom’s aim of localising production, some of whose output could theoretically be exported via air cargo.”

There is no doubt that the Saudis are highly ambitious, planning to have the airport up and running within seven years, with all the financial outlay that entails.

Yet, Calabrese warns: “While the successful execution of the airport project might succeed in carving a slice out of their neighbours’ market share, it could trigger a race to the bottom in terms of pricing and profitability.”

As such, it remains to be seen how these mega-investments will impact Saudi Arabia’s non-oil income.

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Saudi Arabia - Tourism & Culture in Facts, Figures and Statistics

Introduction, promoting tourism and culture, preserving cultural heritage, modern architectural marvels, rise of entertainment and festivals, eco-tourism and natural wonders, culinary adventures: a gastronomic journey, evolution of the hospitality sector, digital transformation in tourism, women in tourism, spiritual tourism: umrah, hajj and holy practices, cultural exchange programs, art, music and traditional crafts, sustainable practices and initiatives, saudi arabia: tourism & culture in facts, figures and statistics.

Infographics by GO-Globe Saudi Arabia

• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ranked 13th globally, advancing by 12 places on the World Tourism Organization (WTO) index, as one of the top countries receiving international tourists in 2022, compared to the 25th place in 2019.
• More than 28 million tourists are expected to visit the Kingdom this year, in 2023.
• The Kingdom continued to make progress in its tourism sector, as it received about 7.8 million international tourists for all purposes during the first quarter of 2023, representing its highest quarterly performance, up 64% compared to the same period in 2019.
• The Kingdom accomplished a new achievement within the Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI), marking the 33rd position globally
• The number of international tourists who visited the Kingdom, for all travel purposes, hit 16.6 million in 2022.
• Revenue in the Travel & Tourism market in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach US$3,819m in 2023.
• Revenue in Saudi Arabia is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2023-2027) of 3.87%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$4,446m by 2027.
• The largest Travel & Tourism market in Saudi Arabia is the Hotels market with a projected market volume of US$2,506m in 2023.
• In the Hotels market, the number of users in Saudi Arabia is expected to amount to 9.1 million people by 2027.
• User penetration in Saudi Arabia is 25.9% in 2023 and is expected to hit 27.4% by 2027.
• The average revenue per user (ARPU) in Saudi Arabia is expected to amount to US$398.70.
• In the Travel & Tourism market, 85% of total revenue in Saudi Arabia will be generated through online sales by 2027.
• Employment opportunities within the rapidly expanding Saudi tourism sector is increasing due to tourism, which now offers 880,000 jobs countrywide.
• NEOM is estimated to worth US$500 billion to complete. a business and tech canter, expected to contribute US$48 billion to the kingdom's gross domestic product and create 380,000 jobs.
• Qiddiya, The New Entertainment City, planned for completion in 2035, is going to stretch over an area of 334km.
• Qiddiya City is expected to create more than 57,000 jobs for the residents and expatriates by 2030.
• Qiddiya is expected to contribute up to SAR 17 billion of GDP to the economy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: is saudi arabia safe for tourists in 2023, q2: what are some must-visit cultural festivals in saudi arabia, q3: are women travelers welcomed in saudi arabia, q4: how can i learn more about vision 2030 and its impact on tourism.

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Inside The Rig: Saudi Arabia's offshore theme park that plans to draw one million visitors

The Rig , the world’s first tourism destination on a former offshore oil platform, will be capable of hosting up to 10,000 visitors, its chief executive has said.

The adventure tourism megaproject, with 300,000 square metres of gross floor area, will have 70 attractions, 800 hotel rooms and 11 restaurants across four areas.

Divided into four rigs, the theme park 40km off Saudi Arabia’s east coast, near the Berri oilfield and Al Juraid Island, aims to attract one million visitors a year, Raed Bakhrji, chief executive of The Rig told The National .

“We aim to attract around a million guests a year by the time the project reaches full maturity. It's designed to accommodate more than 10,000 visitors a day," he said.

Tourism is an integral part of Saudi Arabia's ambitious Vision 2030 programme , the overarching initiative tasked with diversifying the kingdom’s economy as it prepares for a post-oil future.

For those who don’t dive, underwater submarines will provide a unique view of The Rig from beneath the water Raed Bakhrji, The Rig

The kingdom has plans to attract 150 million tourists a year within six years – having reached the 100 million milestone in 2023.

To help reach those targets, it is investing heavily in tourism. Tourism Minister Ahmed Al Khateeb said last year that the country will invest $800 billion in tourism over the next decade to increase the sector's contribution to gross domestic product to 10 per cent by 2030, up from 3 per cent in 2019.

The kingdom is already seeing a return on its investments. Revenue in 2023 reached record levels of $36 billion (SAR135 billion) in 2023, an increase of 42.8 per cent in 2022, the Saudi Press Agency said last month.

Announced in 2021, The Rig will stand out among the myriad attractions the kingdom is developing.

The rigs – The Jackup, The Derrick, The Riser and the Moonpool – will offer everything from ziplining over the sea to submarine trips under the water.

Guests will reach The Rig by helicopter, ferry, yacht or cruise ship, with marina space for up to 50 berths.

The Jackup rig, previously used to drill wells, is the smallest at 106 metres in height and will feature an immersive theatre that Mr Bakhrji says will be a world first.

“It’s going [to] have the first fully immersive theatre in the world where it allows the visitors to be part of the show versus watching a show,” he said.

“When people arrive at this Jackup rig, they're immediately inside this action-adventure story, where they get to learn and experience something very new using a lot of technology.”

Mr Bakhrji said the exact details of the immersive experience are not finalised yet but said guests will be part of the show.

“There are also a lot of actors that play specific roles and the experience is being enabled by virtual or augmented reality in some ways,” he said.

“It allows the guests to have a more live and more engaged experience than just sitting and watching a show.”

The Derrick, the largest of the rigs and themed on a drilling operation, will have four restaurants, an amusement park and a five-star hotel.

“The Derrick has a 6,000-person open-air multipurpose arena, capable of hosting a multitude of events, alongside an amusement park,” Mr Bakhrji said.

The second-largest is The Riser, which is focused on extreme sports and adventure activities.

“With the Riser, you will get experiences that push the boundaries and your limits when it comes to extreme sports and adventure,” he said.

“It has a very nice extreme sports and adventure park. We also have a splash park that is our spin on conventional water parks, as well as hotel and dining options."

The Moonpool has a diving centre, an underwater restaurant and a water activity centre, plus marinas for yachts and boats, and arrival and supply jetties. It also has a boutique hotel with around 70 rooms.

"For those who don’t dive, underwater submarines will provide a unique view of The Rig from beneath the water," he said.

Mr Bakhrji said he expected the majority of The Rig's visitors to come from the kingdom and the Gulf region.

"While The Rig is a global audience destination, we expect that approximately 70 per cent of our customers, or at least people that will be coming more frequently, would be people from closer regions such as Saudi Arabia and the GCC," he said.

Large-scale project

Transforming the rigs from working deep-sea oil platforms into entertainment and activity hubs is a “large-scale project”, Mr Bakhrji said.

Engineers and specialists from around the world have been brought on board to come up with the design and plan to execute the project.

"Our approach will involve a consortium of multi-contractors that will probably build portions of it, modularly in certain areas,” he said.

"Then using offshore construction and heavy lifters to combine these smaller pieces and assemble the bigger pieces and eventually float them or move them to location, so they can be installed at the final destination."

At the current engineering stage, around 1,000 people are working on-site, which is expected to increase once it moves on to construction.

"We are about to float our construction tenders to the markets, where we are expecting to bring the new contractors on board in the near future," he said.

"The construction will see a significant increase in manpower.”

Norwegian oil and gas magazine Upstream , citing an industry source, said contracts for The Rig are “likely to be worth more than $5 billion”.

Mr Bakhrji, however, declined to put a figure on what the project will cost.

“Those are figures that may have been given by some estimators, but no official costs have been disclosed. We're still finalising the engineering details,” he said.

The tender awards are expected to be announced over the next six months to eight months.

“I think at that later stage we will be in a better position to give a value for the project from the PIF,” he said.

Mr Bakhrji was also coy on confirming an opening date.

"The moment I award an EPCI (engineering, procurement construction and installation) contractor and have a consortium of contractors committed to bringing this vision to life with us, I'll share a more concrete [opening] date," he said.

"This step is very crucial, as securing the right group of contractors is fundamental for the construction phase."

Environmental impact

The Rig is close to Juraid Island, which is an area of conservation, with programmes developed by the kingdom's National Centre for Wildlife Preservation to mitigate the project's impact.

"The environmental and social impact assessment is some of the most important work that we're doing, and it's related to the engineering work,” he said.

He said protecting the natural habitat will be beneficial for The Rig and its visitors.

“There's a lot of work that will be done to enhance the coral reefs around the island, as well as the flora and fauna. The island is home to turtle nesting and some birds native to the Arabian Gulf,” he said.

"Our goal is to maintain this ecosystem because the coral reefs provide a lot of interesting and dynamic diving opportunities for our guests, providing a nice mix of natural and industrial scenery at the destination."

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

A £4,000,000,000 floating theme park is Saudi Arabia’s latest bonkers project

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When the oil-rich countries of the Middle East announce a project designed to tempt tourists and visitors, they tend to do so with plenty of ambition .

Anyone who’s been to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or the Qatar World Cup will know that.

So when Saudi Arabia announced a wildly ambitious plan to create the world’s most unique tourist attraction, no one scoffed. And, we have to say, it looks like it’s going to be quite something.

Here’s the basic pitch: it’s going to be a giant floating theme park. It’s also going to be so much more than that, though. The scale of ‘The Rig’ is genuinely quite mind-blowing.

The project’s catchy name is quite easily explained; The Rig is being built on an old oil rig off Saudi Arabia’s eastern coast, around 25 miles from the shoreline, not far from Al Juraid Island and the Berri oilfield.

This quirky offshore tourism project was announced back in 2021 and is being funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

Part of the remit of the project is to ‘celebrate the legacy and heritage of Saudi Arabia’s long oil and gas history’, but it seems likely that’s not what will attract guests. They’ll come for the fun, glamour, glitz and magnitude of The Rig.

So, then. Onto those all important numbers. To give you a sense of scale.

There’s set to be 1.6 million square feet of space, three hotels, 800 rooms, 11 restaurants, 70 different activities, an estimated 10,000 guests per day, a marina with room for 50 boats, and one helipad. Oh, and a budget in excess of $5 billion (£4 billion).

One of the biggest and most thrilling rollercoasters in the world appears to be central to The Rig. As well as that, a sizable adventure and extreme sports park will also be built.

Along with a theatre and a multifunctional arena, the theme park will also have a diving facility, an e-sports centre and a range of aquatic activities.

The park will only be accessible for visitors by cruise ship, ferry or plane. Or, for those feeling super fancy – by helicopter. So think of it kind of like Jurassic Park. Hopefully sans killer dinosaurs.

It appears as though development is well and truly underway. The project is being developed by Saudi Arabia’s Oil Park Development Company (OPDC), under the direction of the firm’s CEO Raed N. Bakhrji.

Those pitching up to The Rig would expect to be able to take part in all sorts of fun, including: jet skiing, go-karting, bungee jumping, skydiving and zip-lining.

There are even plans to send out people for submarine rides in purpose-built submersibles.

Prices are a long way off being announced or even hinted at as yet, but you’d have to imagine that a trip to The Rig wouldn’t come cheap.

The official website describes the unusual plan like this: ‘The world’s first tourism destination on an offshore platform inspired by the design of offshore oil platforms.

‘This is no theme park – it’s an extreme destination, an entirely new playground for adventure tourism. The true scale of adventure.’

While The Rig’s boss Raed Bakhrji says this about it all: ‘The Rig draws its inspiration from Vision 2030 and its initiatives to develop the tourism sector, and it is expected to be one of the leading adventure tourism destinations aiming to attract more than 900,000 visitors annually by 2032.’

There looks set to be some pretty out-there design on show too. With some of the world’s top designers being approached to help come up with some of the looks of the hotel rooms, for instance. Form and function are balanced with aesthetics. With a constant reminder, as if you’d need it, that you’re on old oil rig.

There are plans for one of the eateries to serve fine dining while perched hundreds of feet above the ground.

Numerous rooms at the five-star hotels will provide stunning views of the ocean, while the huge planned stadium can accommodate thousands of people, as well as the booming sound of concerts featuring some of the biggest names from the world of music.

All in all, it sounds like a crazy idea. Exciting? Yes. Weird? Definitely. Everyone’s idea of a good vacation? Not at all. But for those who go, it seems pretty likely that it will at least be the best time they’ve ever spent on a oil rig.

MORE : Al-Ittihad striker Abderrazak Hamdallah whipped by supporter after Saudi Super Cup final

MORE : Tennis stars could be ‘jailed and tortured’ after £40,000,000 Saudi deal

MORE : Brits’ favourite UK city has been revealed — and London no longer tops the list

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Saudi Arabia: Deserts around Mecca and Medina are turning green due to heavy rainfall

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , SAUDI ARABIA / Updated : Apr 16, 2024, 09:53 IST

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Recent heavy rains in Saudi desert near Mecca and Medina birthed a lush oasis, attracting locals, visitors, and wildlife, showcasing biodiversity, resilience, and vibrant vegetation growth.

Recent heavy rains in Saudi desert near Mecca and Medina birthed a lush oasis, attracting locals, visitors, and wildlife, showcasing biodiversity, resilience, and vibrant vegetation growth. Read less

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Raytheon Saudi Arabia enters strategic partnership with GAMI

Raytheon Saudi Arabia and the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) have entered a series of strategic initiatives to strengthening Saudi Arabia’s defence industrial ecosystem.

Photo Caption: Mohammad AlAthel, Deputy Governor for Localisation at GAMI and Ahmad Al Salamah, managing director of Raytheon Saudi Arabia

The initiatives include exploring the manufacturing and testing of a number of key components within the Kingdom’s Patriot air defence system - including the production of the Patriot missile launcher with Arabian International Company (AIC) for Steel, the manufacturing of the GEM-T missile canister with Zahid Industries, and the final assembly, integration, and testing of the Patriot GEM-T effector with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI).

Raytheon Saudi Arabia will also work together with SAMI to train and deploy Saudi talent who will provide continuous air defence operations in the Kingdom, including maintenance and repair of critical Patriot air defence system components.

“This strategic partnership underscores our commitment to the Kingdom's defence industry, creating significant value and self-reliance to foster growth within the region,” said Ahmad Al Salamah, managing director of Raytheon Saudi Arabia. “These initiatives will provide the tools, training and resources needed to contribute to the Kingdom’s self-sufficiency and further bolster RTX’s global supply chain.”

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Saudi Vision 2030: Challenging misconceptions about women’s rights

Opinion columnists.

The country is making significant strides in advancing women’s rights

In the ever-evolving landscape of global affairs, Saudi Arabia’s recent assumption of the chairmanship of the Commission on the Status of Women stands as a significant milestone in the kingdom’s journey toward advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment on a global scale.

This move, however, has not been devoid of controversy and skepticism, particularly from certain quarters of biased Western media, who have labeled it as ‘Womenwashing,’ drawing parallels to previous unfounded accusations of ‘sportswashing’ against Saudi Arabia.

Yet, amid the cacophony of criticism and misperceptions, it’s crucial to delve deeper into Saudi Arabia’s genuine commitment to promoting women’s rights and empowerment, which remains steadfast and unwavering. The kingdom has consistently demonstrated its readiness to collaborate with the international community in advancing women’s rights, as exemplified by its leadership role in the Commission.

This leadership position not only underscores Saudi Arabia’s determination to drive positive change but also reflects its desire to foster inclusivity and equality on the global stage.

At the helm of this transformative journey are Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and King Salman, whose visionary leadership has charted a bold course with Saudi Vision 2030. This ambitious reform agenda encompasses a wide array of initiatives aimed at diversifying the economy, enhancing global competitiveness, and fostering social development.

From substantial investments in professional sports leagues to groundbreaking reforms in various sectors, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating opportunities and driving progress across different facets of society is palpable.

Protecting rights and dignity

Despite the persistent scrutiny and criticism, the strides made by Saudi women in recent years are undeniable. Breaking barriers in diplomacy, assuming leadership roles in major corporations, and actively participating in various fields, Saudi women are playing an integral role in propelling the nation forward and reshaping societal norms. Moreover, legal reforms aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of divorced women underscore Saudi Arabia’s dedication to upholding equality for all its citizens.

While the path to progress may sometimes seem gradual, Saudi society is undergoing a profound transformation, marked by increasing opportunities and inclusivity for women. Long-term residents and observers alike bear witness to the remarkable shifts occurring, fueled by a collective determination to embrace progress and build a more prosperous and equitable future for all.

As Saudi Arabia continues on its trajectory of reform and modernisation, it extends an open invitation to skeptics and critics to engage in constructive dialogue and witness firsthand the remarkable transformations underway. By fostering open dialogue and understanding, the kingdom aims to bridge the gap between perception and reality and showcase its genuine commitment to women’s empowerment and societal advancement on a global stage.

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However, this journey toward progress is not without its challenges and complexities. The transition toward a more inclusive and equitable society requires concerted efforts, not only from the government but also from civil society, the private sector, and the international community as a whole. It necessitates a nuanced approach that acknowledges the cultural, social, and historical contexts within which these reforms are taking place.

Moreover, it’s essential to recognise that meaningful change takes time. While Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in recent years, there is still much work to be done to address systemic barriers and entrenched inequalities. This requires sustained commitment, dialogue, and collaboration at all levels of society.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the Commission on the Status of Women represents a pivotal moment in the kingdom’s ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment. Despite the challenges and criticisms, the kingdom remains resolute in its pursuit of progress and inclusivity. By fostering open dialogue, embracing diversity, and championing the rights of all its citizens, Saudi Arabia is laying the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable future for generations to come.

I invite all those overseas doubters in the media to visit the country and witness with their eyes the changes before drumming up charges of women washing from their cubbyholes back home based on slanted versions in their press. That would indeed mouthwash their unfair charges.

Tariq A. Al Maeena is a Saudi socio-political commentator.

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