The Royal Commission for AlUla has officially launched the AlUla Academy, a groundbreaking initiative in vocational training in the tourism sector. The academy has partnered with Hotel.School to provide hospitality training to students starting in July. The goal of the academy is to create memorable experiences for visitors to AlUla and to serve as a global hub for tourism employees. The development of AlUla as a global tourist destination is part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to create 1.3 million jobs for Saudi citizens.
AlUla, an ancient oasis with a history spanning over 7,000 years, is being carefully developed by Saudi authorities to attract tourists from around the world. The region offers a variety of visitor experiences, including historical sites, wellness offerings, nature exploration, arts, and cultural immersion. The AlUla Academy will play a crucial role in achieving the objectives of the Development and Diversification Plan under Vision 2030 by providing vocational training and creating employment opportunities.
Philip Jones, chief tourism officer of the commission, stressed the importance of learning centers like the AlUla Academy in maintaining excellence in visitor experiences while preserving Saudi authenticity. The academy will accelerate the training process and improve professional skills development to international standards. Anita Mendiratta, special adviser to the UN Secretary General and member of the Royal Commission Advisory Board, highlighted the commitment to improving visitor experiences through local skill development.
The Academy’s partnership with Hotel.School will provide intelligent education solutions and cutting-edge technologies for online learning experiences. Adnan Sawadi, acting director of Hotel.School, expressed their commitment to supporting the committee’s mission in achieving excellence in vocational training in AlUla and the wider region. AlUla has been praised for its success in tourism development and the improvement of local skills, attracting attention from various stakeholders in the tourism industry.
The AlUla Academy is set to be a beacon of excellence in vocational training in the tourism sector, offering a wide range of courses to students who wish to work in the hospitality industry. With its partnership with Hotel.School, the academy aims to provide high-quality training to employees involved in creating memorable experiences for visitors to AlUla. By investing in skills development and maintaining authenticity, the commission aims to strengthen AlUla’s position as a global tourism and hospitality hub.
Through the AlUla Academy, the commission is paving the way for sustainable tourism development in the region, creating employment opportunities for Saudi citizens and providing visitors with enriching cultural experiences. With its rich history and diverse offerings, AlUla is poised to become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the region’s heritage and natural beauty. The academy’s launch marks a significant milestone in the commission’s efforts to achieve its goals under Vision 2030 and further solidify AlUla’s reputation as a top tourist destination.