DestinationsFrom the mountains to the Red Sea, tourism developments power ahead.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ‘opportunity on steroids’

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Saudi Arabia plans a new luxury mountain destination, Soudah Peaks.
Saudi Arabia plans a new luxury mountain destination, Soudah Peaks.

Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans for a new luxury mountain destination, Soudah Peaks.

Set within a natural park in the southwest of Saudi Arabia, the destination is 3,015 metres above sea level, the country’s highest point. Phase one will see the building of nine low-rise boutique and five-star hotels.

The Saudi Tourism Authority said the resort will offer adventure experiences and wellness retreats, “in an immersive cultural environment”.

The authority’s chief executive Fahd Hamidaddin, speaking at World Travel Market 2023, detailed his country’s Vision 2030 tourism plan, which he said is vital for the country’s future.

“Vision 2030 is a national transformation agenda,” he said, explaining Saudi Arabia’s population was 60% below the age of 30 and that unemployment was a threat, which tourism could alleviate.

“To us, Vision 2030 is opportunity on steroids,” he declared, adding tourism was “expected to be our greatest bridge with the world”.

The country’s first Red Sea resort opened on 1 November, with two more resorts due next year.

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