While taking a vacation on an oil rig might not sound like your holiday of choice, we’re buzzing with excitement at the sound of The Rig. There are tourism destinations and then there are world-first tourism destinations, and The Rig is set to be the first-ever holiday spot to be inspired by offshore oil platforms.
Yes, that’s right – the country famous for its black gold has announced it will use offshore oil rigs to create its next blockbuster tourism project. The upcoming holiday hotspot is all part of Saudi Vision 2030’s plans to diversify the kingdom’s economy (funnily enough, away from oil), and to become an international tourism destination.
Located on the Arabian Gulf, on Saudi’s east coast, The Rig will span a whopping 150,000 square metres and will have everything from resorts to adventure sports. There are currently plans for three hotels with a total of 800 rooms, which will boast spectacular views of the waterscape.
Eleven restaurants will be coming to The Rig. Whether you’re craving tapas, desire underwater dining or want a big brand name, you’ll be able to take your pick from almost a dozen dining options at The Rig.
Thrill-seekers will love The Rig, as it promises that it is “no theme park, it’s an extreme park”. With bungee, board and base jumping, we can see why. Plus, you can experience the world’s biggest offshore multipurpose structure. Translated: a giant climbing wall.
Even getting to the destination itself will be an experience. Travellers will be able to arrive via ferry, yacht, cruise or helicopter (for those who want to travel in style, of course), as it has its very own helipad.
Saudi Arabia already has UNESCO World Heritage sites, beach breaks and city breaks, but it’s yet to have a rig break, so we can’t wait to check it out. The Rig hopes to attract locals as well as residents across the GCC. With all the fun activities in a unique setting, it’ll be one to have on your travel bucket list.
For now, you have to wait until it opens before you can throw yourself into the deep end and get your adrenaline rush.
But if this has all sparked a sense of wanderlust in you, then find out where you can fly to from Riyadh right now.
Buzzing? Don’t wait to head out. For all the best things to do in Riyadh right now, click here.
