Saudi Gazette report

Jeddah — A number of projects announced on Sunday during the launch of Al-Ula Vision will contribute SR120 billion in growth to the Kingdom’s GDP, attract over two million visitors, and create 38,000 jobs by 2035.

Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, deputy premier, minister of defense, and chairman of the Royal Commission for Al-Ula (RCU), patronized the ceremony of launching the Vision for Al-Ula on Sunday evening.

The Crown Prince announced RCU’s plan to responsibly develop Al-Ula, the place of heritage for the world, into a destination centered around the conservation of the region’s spectacular natural and cultural heritage, hand-in-hand with the local community.

The projects announced include the Sharaan Nature Reserve, Sharaan Resort and the establishment of the Global Fund for the Arabian Leopard.

RCU is engaging the local community heavily in these projects through the Hammayah program, in which 2,500 residents will train to be advocates for Al-Ula’s natural and human heritage.

The Royal Commission has launched a second round of its successful international scholarship program, which helps connect qualified applicants with study abroad opportunities in the United States, the United Kingdom or France in fields that relate to the development plans for Al-Ula.

As part of its mission to protect and responsibly develop the Kingdom’ world heritage site, the Royal Commission maintains strong partnerships with international experts, one of which is the partnership with France, namely with the French Agency for Al-Ula Development (AFALULA).