Window Seat

THE sights and smells of an industrial oil rig aren’t generally associated with being a major travel attraction, but the emerging tourism might of Saudi Arabia plans to change all of that via a new project.

Called The Rig, the middle eastern nation has unveiled plans to convert an oil rig in the Persian Gulf into a major tourist attraction boasting three hotels, 800 rooms, 11 restaurants, a roller coaster, water slides, and a giant ferris wheel.

To be made accessible by ferry, yacht, cruise, or helicopter, The Rig will also boast go-karts, bungee jumping installations, scuba diving, and a giant performance arena.

Despite the obvious issues with appearing environmentally friendly, the group behind the project, The Public Investment Fund, insists The Rig will follow “leading global standards and best practices, further supporting the Kingdom’s broader efforts on environmental protection”.

No opening date has yet been scheduled but a preview video can be viewed HERE.