Expats Flock to Saudi as Thriving Entertainment Scene, Tourism Boom Boost Quality of Life

Expats Flock to Saudi as Thriving Entertainment Scene, Tourism Boom Boost Quality of Life

Saudi Arabia’s recent efforts to bolster its entertainment scene have significantly improved the quality of life for residents, potentially attracting more expatriates who were previously hesitant to relocate due to a perceived lack of lifestyle options, an expert told sources.

“It is essential to offer world-class lifestyle experiences that cater to different groups, whether it’s art lovers with Riyadh Biennale, HNW [High Net Worth] tourists in AlUla or beach clubs in Jeddah,” said Christophe Castagnéra, Head of Strategy at event management firm Imagination Middle East.

“The speed and breadth of development is staggering and there is no doubt that there will be a larger uptick in tourism growth as many destinations, such as Qiddya open their doors from 2024/5 onwards.”

The tourism sector is expected to add $70-80 billion to the Saudi economy by 2030. This year, the sector experienced a remarkable 10 per cent growth in GDP.

Saudi Arabia launched Vision 2030 in 2016, a reform program set out by the government to diversify the economy away from its reliance on oil, and improve citizens’ quality of life through various economic, social and cultural initiatives by 2030.

“Tourism’s contribution to the economy was summed up brilliantly by the CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority,