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Updated October 2023
Saudi Arabia is a nation driven by a profound vision. It aspires to unveil its multifaceted culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes to the world through the lens of tourism and travel. To realize this ambitious aspiration, Saudi Arabia recognizes the imperative of nurturing its human capital and priming its workforce for the global hospitality industry.
In this article, Wego delves into the exciting journey and promising future that the Riyadh School of Tourism and Hospitality brings, setting the stage for a new era in hospitality education within the Kingdom and beyond.
Table of Contents
School of Tourism and Hospitality explained
The School of Tourism and Hospitality in Saudi Arabia is a pioneering initiative announced by the Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al-Khateeb. It is envisioned to become a world-class training center specializing in the fields of tourism and hospitality.
The school represents Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the global community, aiming to provide top-tier training and education in tourism and hospitality. This initiative is not just a local project, but a gift from Saudi Arabia to the world, aiming to elevate the standards of tourism and hospitality education globally.
The School of Tourism and Hospitality is part of the larger Qiddiya initiative, which was launched by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman. The Qiddiya initiative aims to create the world’s largest cultural, sports, and entertainment city, transforming Saudi Arabia into a global hub for diverse entertainment options and tourism attractions.

School of Tourism and Hospitality opening date
The opening date for the school is planned for the year 2027. However, it will start accepting students from Q4 2024 at an interim facility at Princess Nourah University. By 2030, it is expected to have a student intake of more than 25,000 per year.
School of Tourism and Hospitality expected cost
The School of Tourism and Hospitality in Saudi Arabia is indeed a significant investment. The project is estimated to cost over USD 1 billion. This financial commitment underscores the country’s dedication to establishing a world-class training center in the fields of tourism and hospitality.
School of Tourism and Hospitality location
While currently in the planning stages, the School of Tourism and Hospitality in Saudi Arabia is slated to be situated in Qiddiya. This strategic location has been selected for the school’s future development, covering an expansive five million square meters. Once completed, it will provide students a dynamic and vibrant environment to pursue their studies and engage with tourism and hospitality.