AlUla has become the first Middle Eastern destination to receive accreditation from the US based organization Destinations International.
By meeting over 100 performance standards, the certification highlights AlUla’s commitment to quality and professionalism.
The accreditation follows multiple awards that further cement AlUla’s status its status as a growing luxury heritage destination.
Destinations International Accreditation
AlUla, a renowned location in Saudi Arabia, is famous for its stunning desert scenery. Ever since the country welcomed tourists, it has emerged as a popular tourist spot globally. It now holds the distinction of being the first destination in the Middle East to be accredited by Destinations International.
Philip Jones, the Chief Tourism Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, expressed his delight at this significant achievement, stating,
“Completing the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program is a significant milestone for AlUla as we strive to develop a tourism industry and ecosystem that is best-in-class and future-thinking.”
Destination Marketing Accreditation Program
The accreditation, which forms part of the esteemed Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP), is a testament to AlUla’s dedication to excellence. This rigorous program benchmarks quality and professionalism among destination marketing organizations worldwide.
By successfully meeting over 100 stringent performance standards spanning governance, stakeholder engagement, financial management, and destination development, AlUla has demonstrated its readiness to welcome visitors with unparalleled experiences.
Joining the Global Community
By becoming a member of Destinations International, AlUla has gained access to a global community of destination professionals, serving as an incubator for best practices.
This milestone underscores AlUla’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and professionalism within its burgeoning tourism industry.
AlUla’s Rise
Since opening its doors to visitors four years ago, AlUla has swiftly become one of Saudi Arabia’s premier tourist destinations.
This rapid ascent can be attributed to the destination’s year-round calendar of events and its commitment to providing authentic, top-not hospitality options that cater to discerning travelers.
Achieving DMAP’s Accreditation
To achieve the DMAP accreditation, AlUla underwent a rigorous evaluation process by an independent committee comprising industry experts.
This committee sets and periodically updates the performance standards to reflect the industry’s ever-evolving best practices, ensuring accredited destinations maintain their commitment to excellence.
AlUla’s Award Winning Journey
This latest achievement adds to AlUla’s growing list of prestigious accolades, further solidifying its status as a premier luxury heritage destination.
In May 2024, the World Travel Awards bestowed upon AlUla the titles of “Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project” for the second consecutive year, “Middle East’s Leading Festival & Event Destination,” and “Saudi Arabia’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project.”
Moreover, the Royal Commission for AlUla has received a 5-star rating for organizational excellence from the esteemed European Foundation for Quality Management and an Excellence Award from the Middle East Facility Management Association.
A Sustainable Vision
AlUla’s vision extends beyond merely attracting visitors; it encompasses creating a sustainable economy that directly benefits the local community.
AlUla aims to balance economic growth and environmental stewardship harmoniously by embracing responsible tourism practices and promoting cultural preservation.
Immersive Experiences at AIUIa
Visitors to AlUla can expect a truly immersive experience that seamlessly blends arts, culture, nature, wellness, and adrenaline-fueled adventures and destinations, including Elephant Rock, Hegra, Jabal Ikmah, AlUla Old Town, and AlUla Oasis.
From exploring ancient rock formations and engaging with local artisans to indulging in rejuvenating spa treatments and embarking on thrilling desert excursions, AlUla offers a diverse array of activities to captivate every traveler.
Reshaping Tourism Excellence
As AlUla continues to garner international recognition and accolades, its future appears brighter than ever.
With a steadfast commitment to excellence, sustainable practices, and preserving its rich cultural heritage, AlUla is poised to redefine the Middle East’s tourism landscape, setting new benchmarks for luxury, authenticity, and unforgettable experiences.
More Planned Developments at AIUIa
AlUla’s Sharaan Resort Construction
Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has commenced the construction of Sharaan Resort in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
Located in the Sharaan Nature Reserve, the resort will comprise 38 luxury suites built into the sandstone mountains, providing guests with panoramic views of the area.
Along with various wellness amenities, the resort, envisioned by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, is a prominent project of RCU that combines luxury and eco-friendliness to transform the hospitality scene in AlUla.
Sidrat AlUla
The Royal Commission for AlUla has revealed plans for a new stunning real estate venture in South AlUla named Sidrat AlUla.
This ambitious project will feature 810 units, including luxurious villas and apartments, expansive parks and a sizable 26,000 square meters of retail space.
Al Akaria Real Estate, headquartered in Riyadh, will lead this eagerly anticipated initiative, aiming to seamlessly blend contemporary urban living with AlUla’s timeless natural and cultural heritage.
Al Muatadil Equestrian Village
The Royal Commission for Al Ula has revealed groundbreaking plans for the Al Muatadil Equestrian Village, a visionary project poised to elevate Al Ula into a prominent global equestrian destination.
The initiative seamlessly merges modern design aesthetics with Al Ula’s cultural heritage, actively contributing to Saudi Arabia’s tourism objectives.
Architect Erik Behrens, leading the project with AECOM, skillfully combines the region’s cultural legacy with innovative and sustainable design practices.
AIUIa’s Dream of the Desert Train
Saudi Arabian Railways and Arsenale Group, an Italian hospitality company, have reached a $53 million agreement to introduce the first luxury train service in the Middle East, Dream of The Desert.
This premium train service will cover a distance of 1300 km from Riyadh to Qurayyat, located near the northern border with Jordan.
The Dream of The Desert trains will consist of 40 lavish cabins, accommodating a total of 82 passengers, and will travel through the breathtaking landscape of Saudi Arabia. The commencement of this service is anticipated in late 2025.
Marriott’s First Autograph Collection Hotel
Marriott International has partnered with the AlUla Development Company to establish an Autograph Collection Hotel in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. The anticipated inauguration of this upscale establishment is scheduled for 2025.
The hotel features 250 rooms and suites and is set to provide guests with diverse leisure and entertainment amenities. These include four dining venues, a comprehensive spa, a swimming pool, a contemporary fitness center, a business center, meeting facilities, and retail space.
Six Senses AIUIa
Six Senses has partnered with the Al Ula Development Company to establish a luxurious Six Senses AIUIa hotel spanning 1.2 million square meters in Al Ula, slated for inauguration in 2027.
Positioned within a serene natural oasis featuring abundant palm groves, the hotel will be encircled by striking red sandstone cliffs and comprise 100 guest villas alongside 25 residences.
Aman Hegra Project
The AlUla Development Company, in partnership with Kun Investment Holding, has officially entered into a joint venture to embark on the prestigious Aman Hegra Project in AlUla.
Envisioned as a high-end luxury venture, the project is set to feature a 42-key ultra-luxurious hotel and 30 branded residences in AlUla, which stands as the kingdom’s inaugural UNESCO World Heritage site.
AIUIa’s Tramway Project
Royal Commission of Al Ula has signed a contract worth $500 million with the French company Alstom to construct the World’s Longest Battery-Powered Tramway in AlUla.
This groundbreaking project by Alstom will span 22.4km and connect 17 stations, providing unparalleled access to Al Ula’s five historical districts, including the renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites of Al Ula Old Town and Hegra Historical City.
Alstrom has a successful track record in the Middle East, having completed projects such as the Dubai tramway, the new Riyadh metro, and the Haramain High-Speed railway that links the Holy Cities Makkah and Madinah.
Keep Reading: Royal Commission for AlUla Starts Construction of Sharaan Resort
