Saudi Arabia is undergoing a monumental transformation, one that is reshaping its tourism and leisure landscape. At the heart of this transformation are several mega-projects designed to diversify the economy, showcase the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage, and establish Saudi Arabia as a global hub for luxury, tourism, and entertainment. With investments totaling hundreds of billions of dollars, these developments are a critical part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to reduce its dependence on oil revenues by expanding sectors like tourism, entertainment, and technology. These ambitious projects are poised to revolutionize Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry and position it as a global tourism powerhouse, attracting millions of visitors each year.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF), one of the Kingdom’s most powerful economic tools, has been central to funding these initiatives, managing over $620 billion in assets. As part of its Vision 2030 strategy, the PIF is spearheading projects like Neom, the Red Sea Project, Qiddiya, Diriyah, and the Red Sea International Airport, which together are set to reshape Saudi Arabia’s tourism, leisure, and entertainment sectors. From the high-tech city of Neom to cultural heritage sites like Al-Ula and the ultra-luxurious resorts along the Red Sea, these developments promise to make Saudi Arabia a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
According to real estate experts at Knight Frank, the value of real estate and infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia has surpassed $1.25 trillion since the National Transformation Plan was launched in 2016. Al Jawhara Magazine, a key source of news and analysis in the region, continues to cover these developments extensively as they are set to drastically transform the country’s tourism landscape.
Neom: A Futuristic Mega-City Redefining Urban Living
At the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s mega-projects is the Neom project, a futuristic $500 billion city being built from the ground up in the northwest of the Kingdom. Envisioned as a city unlike any other, Neom aims to be fully powered by renewable energy, relying on clean energy sources like solar and wind to meet its energy needs. Neom will feature innovative urban designs with a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technologies such as autonomous vehicles and advanced public transportation systems.
One of Neom’s most ambitious components is “The Line,” a 170-kilometer-long city that will feature two parallel skyscrapers 500 meters high, designed to accommodate millions of residents in a space-efficient and eco-friendly manner. The city will offer all the conveniences of modern living while minimizing its environmental impact, making it a global leader in sustainable urban development. By 2039, Neom is expected to house over nine million people, providing them with world-class amenities, job opportunities, and a lifestyle centered around sustainability and innovation.
Neom’s creation is being led by a blend of Saudi government backing and private sector investment, positioning the city to become one of the most technologically advanced urban centers in the world. As Neom continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly become a focal point of Saudi Arabia’s tourism and economic diversification efforts.
The Red Sea Project: A Luxury Tourism and Eco-Resort Hub
The Red Sea Project is one of the most ambitious tourism developments in Saudi Arabia, covering an area of 28,000 square kilometers along the Kingdom’s pristine western coastline. The project is designed to turn the Red Sea region into a world-class luxury tourism destination, with over 90 islands, coral reefs, and ancient archaeological sites at its heart. Expected to cost around $15 billion, the Red Sea Project will feature luxury resorts, eco-friendly villas, marinas, and a variety of recreational and wellness facilities, all built with sustainability in mind.
By 2030, the project aims to feature over 50 hotels with more than 8,000 rooms, along with 1,000 residential properties. The development will attract millions of tourists from around the world who are drawn to Saudi Arabia’s rich natural beauty and the opportunity to explore this largely untapped region of the world. The Red Sea International Airport, which opened in September 2023, is a critical part of this development, facilitating direct flights to the region from major cities around the world, including Riyadh and Jeddah.
The Red Sea Project will also focus heavily on sustainability, integrating renewable energy systems, water desalination plants, and environmental conservation efforts into every aspect of the development. The region is home to some of the world’s most stunning coral reefs, making it an attractive destination for divers and marine enthusiasts. As part of the project’s commitment to eco-tourism, it will operate with a zero-carbon footprint, ensuring that the natural environment is preserved for future generations.
Al-Ula: A World Heritage Site and Cultural Tourism Gem
Al-Ula, located in the northwestern region of Saudi Arabia, is a city of immense historical and cultural significance. Home to ancient rock formations, tombs, and archaeological sites, Al-Ula is being developed as one of the Kingdom’s foremost cultural tourism destinations. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the region is steeped in history, with roots dating back more than 2,000 years.
The Royal Commission for Al-Ula, established in 2017, has been tasked with preserving and developing the region, including the famous Madain Saleh, the first UNESCO-listed site in Saudi Arabia. The Commission is working on restoring the ancient tombs and sandstone cliffs that date back to the Nabatean and Roman eras. In addition to preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage, the Commission is planning to build a wide range of new facilities, including hotels, resorts, and cultural centers.
The development will include over 7,500 hotel rooms, 5,000 residential units, and a series of cultural and heritage attractions. One of the most ambitious components of the Al-Ula project is a new arts and cultural district, which will feature galleries, museums, and performance spaces to showcase both Saudi and international talent. The development will also include a variety of recreational and wellness facilities, making Al-Ula a major hub for cultural tourism in the Middle East.
Diriyah: A Monumental Heritage and Historical Preservation Project
Diriyah is one of the most historically significant areas in Saudi Arabia, as it was the original seat of the Saudi royal family and the capital of the first Saudi state. The Diriyah project, valued at $62.2 billion, is focused on preserving the Kingdom’s heritage while creating a world-class tourism destination that attracts both local and international visitors.
The Diriyah Gate Development Authority is working on restoring many of the city’s historical sites, including the At-Turaif District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with plans to complete restoration work by 2025. The project will feature a variety of new developments, including luxury hotels, cultural centers, retail outlets, and entertainment facilities. Diriyah is also set to become a cultural hub, with plans for an opera house, theaters, and other venues for the performing arts.
In addition to preserving its historical and cultural significance, Diriyah is being developed as a modern tourism destination that will host millions of visitors every year. The project is expected to create thousands of new jobs and attract investments from around the world. With its rich heritage and stunning architecture, Diriyah will become one of the key attractions in Saudi Arabia’s tourism portfolio.
Qiddiya: A World-Class Entertainment and Leisure Destination
Qiddiya is another landmark project that will redefine the entertainment and tourism landscape in Saudi Arabia. Located just outside Riyadh, the $10 billion development will be one of the largest entertainment complexes in the world, covering 334 square kilometers. Once completed, Qiddiya will feature a range of attractions, including a Six Flags amusement park, a water park, a sports stadium, and a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course.
Qiddiya’s design focuses on providing something for everyone, from families seeking fun and adventure to thrill-seekers looking for the next big adrenaline rush. The development will also include a variety of cultural and recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for both domestic and international tourists. It is expected to attract millions of visitors annually, contributing significantly to the Kingdom’s tourism sector.
In addition to its entertainment offerings, Qiddiya will also focus on sustainability, integrating green technologies and eco-friendly practices into every aspect of the development. The project is set to be a key player in Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil exports.
Amaala: The Ultimate in Luxury and Wellness Tourism
Amaala is another ultra-luxurious tourism project that is set to redefine the global hospitality and wellness industries. Spanning over 4,000 square kilometers along the northwest coast of Saudi Arabia, Amaala will be a year-round luxury destination designed to attract high-net-worth individuals from around the world. The project will feature a series of luxury resorts, spas, and wellness centers, all set against the backdrop of the Red Sea’s stunning natural beauty.
Amaala’s focus is on providing the ultimate in wellness, relaxation, and luxury, with a range of health retreats and rejuvenation programs aimed at promoting mental and physical well-being. The first phase of development, including the Triple Bay Resort, is set to be completed by mid-2024, with additional phases of the project rolling out over the next few years.
Amaala will also be powered entirely by renewable energy, ensuring that the resort’s environmental impact is minimal while maintaining the highest standards of luxury and sustainability. This commitment to environmental preservation is central to the project’s overall vision, which aims to provide visitors with an unparalleled experience while minimizing its carbon footprint.
King Salman Park: The Kingdom’s Green Oasis
King Salman Park is a massive urban development project in Riyadh that aims to create one of the largest parks in the world. Covering 13.4 square kilometers, King Salman Park will offer residents and visitors a green space for relaxation, recreation, and cultural activities. The park will feature a variety of attractions, including sports facilities, a golf course, an equestrian center, and a cultural complex that will showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich history and culture.
The project is part of the Saudi government’s broader efforts to improve urban livability and create more green spaces for residents in the Kingdom’s rapidly growing cities. With its focus on sustainability, green spaces, and outdoor recreation, King Salman Park is expected to become a key component of Riyadh’s urban development and a major draw for tourists.
Makkah Pathway: Connecting Visitors to the Holy City
Makkah Pathway is another significant project designed to improve the flow of visitors to the holy city of Makkah, one of the most important religious destinations in the Islamic world. The 1.2-square-kilometer urban development will feature a wide range of infrastructure improvements, including pedestrian streets, hotels, and religious facilities, designed to accommodate the millions of pilgrims who visit Makkah every year. With its focus on improving accessibility and enhancing the overall experience for visitors, Makkah Pathway will play a key role in Saudi Arabia’s broader tourism strategy.
