01 September 2024

Plans for The Rig., the world’s first offshore adventure tourism project inspired by oil platforms, have advanced with the developer Oil Park Development Company (OPDC) having signed a partnership deal last month with International Maritime Industries (IMI) to set up the maritime logistics and infrastructure essential for seamless access to the unique destination off the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia.

IMI, a premier global provider of maritime products and services, will supply ferries and additional services designed to optimise the visitor experience at The Rig. The destination will be accessible through special transport modes, including fast ferries, private yachts, helicopters and seaplanes. Terminals will be built on the mainland to manage and operate the fast ferries, helicopters, and seaplanes. Cruise lines will also be able to anchor nearby, with tenders taking visitors to and from the destination.

The masterplan for The Rig. was launched by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns OPDC, in early January this year.

Designed to celebrate the legacy and history of Saudi Arabia’s long oil and gas heritage while creating new horizons for adventure tourism, The Rig. will consist of four decommissioned and newly built platforms, whose concept and model are inspired by offshore oil rigs. It will be built 40 km from the shoreline in the Arabian Gulf, near Juraid Island and Berri Oil Field, with a gross floor area of more than 300,000 sq m

The Rig. aims to attract more than 900,000 visitors by 2032 and will target extreme sports and adventure lovers, those interested in oil and gas heritage, yachting and cruise line tourists, families and relaxation seekers.

The destination will feature three hotels with a total of 800 rooms and 11 food and beverage outlets, a world-class marina and helipads. Hotels and amenities will have industrial characteristics, designed by world-class designers.

The Rig. will include around 72 entertainment and attraction offerings, including a water activities centre, an extreme sports and adventure park, an amusement park, a splash park and a diving centre.  It will also offer indoor activities, retail shops, a cinema, a kid’s centre, a multi-purpose arena, an edutainment platform, and an e-sport centre. Peak visitor numbers are estimated to be more than 10,000 per day.

According to OPDC, The Rig. is being developed to the highest international standards, with a focus on environmental impact, community empowerment and facilitating eco-experiences. 

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