Saudi Arabia’s tourism and hospitality sector is surging ahead, committed to achieving the ambitious industry targets outlined in Vision 2030. Industry leaders emphasized this commitment during a panel discussion held on Tuesday, highlighting the sector’s pivotal role in job creation and the country’s economic transformation.
Badr Alherbish, Chief Strategy Officer of Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund, underscored the significance of tourism in job creation, especially in rural areas and communities grappling with unemployment. He stated, “One in every five jobs globally today is supported by tourism, so that’s why tourism is such an important sector.”
One shining example of Saudi Arabia’s bold development efforts is the Rua Al Madinah project, a colossal mixed-use real estate development situated to the east of the Prophet’s Mosque. Ahmed Al-Juhani, CEO of Rua Al Madinah Holding, shared insights into the project’s progress, highlighting the meticulous planning required to overcome logistical challenges.
Al-Juhani stated, “Since the project’s launch, the master plan and infrastructure work have been diligently executed. We have acquired the land and successfully navigated the urban development complexities. We have also completed the design of 5,000 rooms and signed hotel management agreements with three companies for these accommodations.”
The total value of contracts and execution has now surpassed SR5.3 billion ($1.4 billion), and the company is gearing up to release tenders for the construction of the 5,000 rooms next month. Al-Juhani further revealed ambitious plans, saying, “We currently have another 7,000 rooms in the design phase and concept stage, with an additional 8,000 rooms slated to begin design in November.”
“In essence, we are looking at a staggering 20,000 rooms in various stages of development before the year concludes: some under design, some under construction, and others in the middle of the design process.”
Simultaneously, the Boutique Group, under the leadership of Mark DeCocinis, is undertaking the restoration of three historic palaces. Al-Hamra Palace in Jeddah, Tuwaiq Palace, and the Red Palace in Riyadh are set to be transformed into luxury accommodations. Al-Hamra Palace will offer 77 keys, including 33 luxury palace suites and 44 luxury villas. Tuwaiq Palace will provide 96 keys, comprising 40 luxury palace suites and 56 luxury villas, while the Red Palace will offer 71 keys, featuring 46 luxury suites and 25 luxury guest rooms.
DeCocinis expressed the group’s commitment to preserving and enhancing these historic sites, emphasizing the meticulous attention to detail required for such endeavors. He emphasized their target audience, saying, “We aim to cater to the upper echelon of regional and international travelers, aiming to provide exceptional and personalized service.”
In closing, DeCocinis boldly proclaimed, “I believe Saudi hospitality will be the new benchmark in the world globally.” His statement reflects the growing confidence and determination within the Saudi hospitality sector to not only meet Vision 2030 goals but to also redefine global standards of luxury and service excellence.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in the expansion and enhancement of its tourism and hospitality sector, it appears poised to emerge as a global leader in the field, attracting travelers from around the world and setting new standards for luxury and hospitality.
