Strategic Partnership: OPDC and IMI formed a partnership to enhance marine operations at THE RIG, the world’s first offshore tourism destination designed like an oil platform.
IMI’s Role: IMI will supply ferries and maritime services to improve operational efficiency and visitor experience at THE RIG, aiming to set new standards in adventure tourism.
Project Features: THE RIG will include three hotels, 11 restaurants, 800 rooms, various retail stores, and adventure activities both above and below the sea, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s innovation in tourism.
Dammam, August 20, 2024 — On Monday, the Oil Park Development Company (OPDC), a subsidiary of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), and International Maritime Industries (IMI) entered into a strategic partnership in Ras Al-Khair. This collaboration is set to enhance marine operations at THE RIG tourism project, a pioneering venture that represents the world’s first offshore tourism destination designed to mimic the style and structure of offshore oil platforms.
Under this partnership, IMI will provide ferries and additional maritime services to support the operational needs of THE RIG project. The goal is to improve the efficiency and quality of marine operations, which will significantly enhance the visitor experience at this innovative tourism destination. THE RIG is designed to offer a unique blend of adventure and luxury, inspired by Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage in the oil and gas industry.
The collaboration aims to leverage IMI’s extensive expertise in shipbuilding, repair, and maritime services to elevate the operational standards and service levels at THE RIG. This strategic alliance is expected to play a crucial role in achieving the project’s operational objectives and reinforcing its status as a premier destination for adventure tourism. By integrating IMI’s capabilities, the partnership seeks to set new benchmarks in the tourism industry and support the growth and success of THE RIG.
Eng. Raed Bakhrji, CEO of OPDC, highlighted that this partnership represents a significant step towards delivering unparalleled visitor experiences at THE RIG. He emphasized that IMI’s extensive maritime expertise will enhance operational efficiency and contribute to the project’s overall success. Bakhrji also noted that this alliance aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to advance the tourism sector and develop new, innovative destinations.
Eng. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, CEO of IMI, underscored the importance of the partnership with OPDC, expressing that this collaboration will facilitate the achievement of mutual goals and bolster the national economy. He noted that the cooperation would benefit various sectors and help drive economic growth.
THE RIG project is set to redefine adventure tourism with its groundbreaking design, featuring three hotels with a total of 800 rooms, 11 restaurants, a variety of retail outlets, and a range of thrilling activities both above and below the sea surface. This ambitious project aims to offer an unprecedented adventure experience, combining luxury with the excitement of maritime exploration.
Overall, the partnership between OPDC and IMI signifies a major advancement in enhancing the operational and service aspects of THE RIG, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation in the tourism sector and its broader Vision 2030 goals.