Saudi Arabia has become a sustainable tourism and hospitality leader in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It is positioning itself as a trendsetter in developing sustainable tourism initiatives at a global level and designing new-age hospitality experiences that are aligned with carbon-emission goals.
The Kingdom is promoting a variety of projects across the country involved in sustainable hospitality as well as eco-friendly programs that incorporate the environmental goals part of Saudi’s Vision 2030.
From the Red Sea coast to Al Ahsa Oasis, new cutting-edge sustainability projects are emerging to cut emissions, preserve natural habitats, create local job opportunities, and much more. These include flagship projects from Red Sea Global and NEOM, highlighting Saudi’s commitment to become a leading force in luxury sustainable tourism.
Foreign investment from leading companies in the hospitality industry such as the Four Seasons luxury wellness resort in Amaala and ENVI Laguna Bay in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) are introducing innovative approaches to minimize impact on the environment. This includes initiatives like carbon offsetting, waste management, and community engagement to reflect the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.
Saudi Arabia has combined both private and public investment to drive the Kingdom towards ambitious sustainable development projects. In addition to this, Saudi’s launching of the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge and the Dan Company for agritourism and ecotourism projects provides a 360-degree perspective on the Kingdom’s sustainable tourism goals.
Through this initiative, Saudi Arabia is not only changing its tourism industry but also making a new global standard for a responsible hospitality sector. It is doing so by promoting local materials to embracing renewable energies like solar power. Saudi Arabia is certainly emerging as a global leader in cultivating more responsible and sustainable tourism practices.