It’s been a quiet week; Saudi Arabia hadn’t announced a new megaproject, but old habits die hard, and the Kingdom is back with another giant tourist attraction. The Rig is Saudi Arabia’s newest oil rig-inspired adventure resort, offering a unique spin on offshore vacations. Developed by the Oil Park Development Company (OPDC), owned by the affluent Public Investment Fund (PIF), The Rig sprawls over a gross floor area of more than 300,000 sq m. Located 40 km from the coastline near Al Juraid Island and the Berri Oil Field in the Arabian Gulf, it features luxurious accommodations in three hotels with a total of 800 rooms, catering to those who seek a laid-back, luxurious time off.
Gastronomes can delight in 11 restaurants offering top-notch gourmet food. The Rig is a haven for adventure-seekers and adrenaline enthusiasts, with its extreme sports and adventure park being the hub of action.
Other activities include a diving center, an amusement park, a splash park, an e-sports center, an immersive theater, and a multi-purpose arena. From board, bungee, and base jumping, to scaling a giant climbing wall, or enjoying a Ferris Wheel, The Rig aims to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032.
It will also boasts a world-class 50-berth marina and helipad to accommodate ships of the sky and high seas. Per Arab News, Raed Bakhrji, The Rig’s CEO, stated, “The Rig is expected to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing to a wide range of domestic, regional, and international audiences, including adrenaline seekers, explorers, balanced holidaymakers, and relaxation seekers.” The Rig will adhere to standards and practices aligned with the environmental preservation goals of Vision 2030. PIF explained: “This project is a unique tourism attraction, expected to attract tourists from around the world while being especially popular with citizens and residents of the GCC countries in the region.”
