Collaborations, such as with Italy’s Arsenale Group to introduce the Middle East’s first luxury train cruise, exemplify the Kingdom’s commitment to high-end tourism.
The “Dream of the Desert,” a 14-carriage luxury suite train designed by architect Aline Asmar d’Amman, is set to traverse a 1,300-kilometre route from Riyadh to Al Qurayyat near the Jordanian border, commencing operations next year in partnership with Saudi Arabia Railways.
This focus on upscale tourism is evident in the Kingdom’s ambitious plans to develop 320,000 hotel rooms by 2030, with two-thirds classified as “upscale” or “luxury,” according to consultancy Knight Frank.
Projects like AMAALA, a luxury destination along the Red Sea coast, and the Red Sea Global initiative, covering 28,000 km² of pristine coastline and islands, are central to this strategy.
These developments aim to attract high-net-worth individuals by offering exclusive experiences that highlight Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
However, as Saudi Arabia prepares to host global events such as the World Expo in 2030 and the FIFA World Cup in 2034, there is a recognized need to diversify tourism offerings to appeal to a broader market.
The Quality of Life Program, part of the Vision 2030 initiative, seeks to enhance culture, entertainment, sports, and tourism sectors, thereby enriching lives and promoting a more inclusive tourism environment.
This includes developing more mid-scale accommodations and attractions to cater to middle-income tourists, ensuring that the Kingdom’s tourism growth is both inclusive and sustainable.
Industry experts suggest that while the luxury segment serves as an effective catalyst for initial tourism growth and global recognition, expanding into the middle-income market is essential for sustained success.
This approach mirrors strategies employed by other regional destinations, such as Dubai, which initially focused on high-end tourism before broadening its appeal to attract a diverse visitor base.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s substantial investments in luxury tourism are positioning the Kingdom as a notable destination for affluent travellers.
Concurrently, plans are underway to develop infrastructure and services that cater to a wider audience, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030 to create a thriving and diversified economy
Tags: luxury tourism destination, Dream of the Desert Saudi Arabia
