Tourism gigaprojects for Saudi Arabia

HRH Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Crown Prince and Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s public Investment Fund (PIF), has had discussions in New York re the NEOM project.

The Crown Prince has reiterated the importance of these projects to the future of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the region both in terms of economic impact and social well-being. He emphasized his commitment to placing environmental stewardship and sustainability at the heart of these efforts.

NEOM is a planned 10,230-square-mile (26,500 sq km) transnational city and economic zone to be constructed in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia close to the border region of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt. It will be the world’s largest special economic zone spanning three countries. The Red Sea Project is a new luxury tourism destination. And, Qiddiya is the country’s first entertainment, sporting, and cultural district.

Since their launch, Saudi Arabia has been identifying world-class experts to engage as it moves forward with these key projects. The purpose of today’s discussions was to engage with these advisers; review progress to date; and seek their ideas in addition to insights as the Kingdom reaches out to potential global investors and partners.

John Pagano, Chief Executive Officer of The Red Sea Project, said: "The meeting was extremely useful in helping us advance our vision. We are working to position the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the global sustainable tourism map and to do that we need to gather the best advice from the global sustainability experts, as well as, thought and industry leaders from all over the world."

"It is through this process that we will create something truly special for the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that will inspire the next generation, as well as, being a catalyst for wider economic growth", added Michael Reininger, Chief Executive Officer of Qiddiya.

NEOM’s Chief Executive Officer, Klaus Kleinfeld, reiterated the vision to be "the world’s greatest place to live and work" and held discussions on sustainability, new forms of mobility, advanced manufacturing and implementing the world’s first 100% renewable energy system.

In the coming months, formal Advisory Boards will be constituted for each of these projects to provide ongoing counsel and enhance international awareness and understanding of the opportunities these transformative projects provide.

Valere Tjolle

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