Insane scale of world’s first floating ‘extreme tourist destination’ built on Saudi oil rig

Saudi Arabia has been busy developing its first-of-its-kind attraction - a floating theme park.

Located off Al Juraid Island, this extraordinary venue is located atop a decommissioned oil rig hence its name 'The Rig'.

Spreading across 74 acres, the unique attraction is 40 km away from the nearest piece of land in the Arabian Gulf.

The Rig is set to host 10,000 visitors per day by 2032 during peak periods.

Offering over 70 activities including ziplines, obstacle courses, rollercoasters, cable cars, guests won't be short of something to do.

Adrenaline junkies will find their fix with the many extreme sports available, whilst the non-thrillseekers can enjoy the pool, Ferris wheel and flying restaurant.

The Rig

Additionally, there is to be a theatre and a multifunctional arena, a diving facility, an e-sports centre and a range of aquatic activities.

Guests will have their pick from three hotels with 800 rooms, 11 restaurants, and 70 different activities over 74 acres (think 42 Olympic-sized swimming pools).

Development of the 1.6 million square foot amusement park is underway under the eye of Saudi Arabia’s Oil Park Development Company (OPDC) and its CEO, Raed N. Bakhrji.

Early images of the park reveal its vast scale. For the most part, the aerial photos make it seem like nothing more than a quiet oil rig.

But looking closer, the amusement park can be seen at the end of the rig, complete with bright, vibrant lights and a dynamic atmosphere.

Other photos showcase the unique bedroom interiors as well as guests enjoying what appears to be an underwater bar.

The Rig

First announced in 2021, the overall project cost to build this offshore endeavour costs over $5 billion, and is being funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

If this all sounds pretty exciting, the project cost hints that tickets will be far from cheap. Prices are a long way off being announced or even hinted at as yet, but you’d expect a visit to this extraordinary attraction would come at a premium price. Especially, when you realise the only way to get there is by cruise ship, ferry, plane, or even, helicopter.

The Rig's official website writes: “It’s an extreme destination, an entirely new playground for adventure tourism. The true scale of adventure."