Saudi Arabia boosted its tourism credentials in 2021: mega-projects and music festivals
The kingdom has spearheaded a raft of new developments over the past year and is all set to continue in the same vein in 2022. Part of the country’s ambitious 2030 plan to bring Saudi Arabia to the world, historic AlUla, home to the country’s first Unesco heritage site at Hegra, continues to expand its offering, with experiences such as Hegra After Dark and art events such as Desert X AlUla 2022.
Global hotel chains are investing heavily in the country, fuelled by its newfound openness and the fact tourist visas can now be secured online for many nationalities. This year, Marriott signed a number of agreements for new properties in the country, including the world’s largest Aloft, The Jeddah Edition, and JW Marriott Riyadh.
Food and beverage operators, both regional and international, are also recognizing the potential of the country. Michelin-lauded chefs, celebrity brands and home-grown concepts are all carving a space for themselves in the kingdom.
Source Credit: The National