Saudi Arabia’s AlUla to be developed into world’s largest living museum

Saudi Arabia revealed plans at the 10th UN World Urban Forum to establish AlUla as the world’s largest living museum and a major heritage, cultural, arts and adventure tourism destination.

AlUla, covering 22,561 square kilometers, is known for its natural beauty as well as its archaeological diversity, instrumental in shaping a new cultural landscape in Saudi Arabia.

“We invite experts from around the world to join us to learn and innovate together. We see a clear road ahead as we attract investment and continue to protect, preserve, share and celebrate our heritage and nature with the world,” Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) CEO, Amr AlMadani, said.

Saudi Arabia aims to host 2 million visitors a year in AlUla by 2035. The RCU estimates the project will create more than 67,000 new jobs - almost half of them in the tourism sector.

“We have launched a new airport with potential to become a transport and logistics hub for North-West Saudi Arabia, as well as Maraya, our 500-seat theatre and home for entertainment, business and celebratory gatherings which is also the largest mirrored structure in the world,” AlMadani added.

The RCU has already engaged hospitality training for residents to create teams of Rowah (tour guides), wildlife rangers, and Hammayah (heritage guardians).

“A number of major infrastructure plans have already been realized and it is anticipated that we will introduce new building permits and design guidelines to AlUla as early as March,” Francesca Arici, the RCU’s Acting Chief County Zoning and Planning Officer, said.

Around 80% of AlUla County will be protected, including cultural and natural heritage sites, where the RCU will work with the local community to ensure sensitive protection, preservation and development.