The Rig: Inside Saudi Arabia’s oil rig adventure resort

Adrenaline junkies can join skydiving to scuba diving at the extreme park.

Saudi Arabia loves a world first, and The Rig might be one of the most memorable yet. While we know that the Kingdom is famous for its black gold, it’s now turning that concept on its head. The latest tourist destination is an oil rig, which is located off the east coast of the Arabian Gulf.

The Rig will will redefine the sea sports and leisure experience while celebrating the legacy of Saudi Arabia’s rich oil and gas heritage. The blockbuster project sounds like something straight out of an action movie, as it turns an oil rig into an adventure resort.

The Rig knows how to make an entrance, as guests will be able to arrive at the offshore platform in the Arabian Gulf via ferry, yacht or even a helicopter. Spanning 300,000 square meters, it includes three hotels, 800 rooms and 11 restaurants. The latest renders show cabin-like rooms, which have balconies with sea views. The restaurants range from a tapas venue to underwater dining, obviously.

Thrill-seeking experiences include board, bungee and base jumping. Plus, there are roller coaster rides, a splash park, an E-sports center, an immersive theater a multi-purpose arena, and scuba diving experiences. If you want to make like Spider-Man, the world’s largest multipurpose structure will be transformed into a giant climbing wall. 

For those who don’t need an adrenaline rush, there will be a Ferris Wheel and dazzling firework displays. Plus, there will be shops, shows and a 50-berth marina.

The Rig is part of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy away from oil. 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.

The Rig will seek to attract over 900,000 annual visitors by 2032, appealing to a wide range of domestic, regional and international audiences, including adrenaline seekers, explorers, and holidaymakers. The unique hospitality and adventure experience will be located 40km from the coastline, near Al Juraid Island and Berri Oil Field in the Arabian Gulf.

Would you holiday at an oil rig?

GO: Visit https://therig.sa for more information.