Saudi Prince's Sky-High Vision: Soudah Peaks Mountain Tourism Project Soars

Saudi Prince's Sky-High Vision: Soudah Peaks Mountain Tourism Project Soars

By Author

Published on October 1, 2023

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of Soudah Development, has unveiled a grand vision for Saudi Arabia's future in tourism. The masterplan, known as "Soudah Peaks," will transform the breathtaking landscapes of the Aseer region, situated in the southwestern part of the country, into a luxury mountain tourism destination perched 3,015 metres above sea level on Saudi Arabia's highest peak.

This audacious project is part of the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) ongoing efforts to diversify the Kingdom's economy, with a particular focus on expanding vital industries like tourism, hospitality, and entertainment, all while supporting the broader Aseer development strategy.

HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who also chairs Soudah Development’s Board of Directors, envisions Soudah Peaks as a groundbreaking addition to Saudi Arabia's tourism sector. It represents a bold leap into the realm of luxury mountain tourism, promising visitors an unparalleled living experience while preserving the region's natural environment, cultural heritage, and rich traditions.

The ambitious project is not only strategically aligned with Vision 2030 goals but is also expected to significantly boost the Saudi economy. It's estimated to contribute more than SAR 29 billion to the Kingdom's cumulative GDP while creating thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities. In the words of HRH the Crown Prince, "Soudah Peaks will place the Kingdom on the global tourism map and celebrate its rich culture and heritage, all set against the backdrop of lush greenery and skies above the clouds."

Soudah Peaks will offer high-end, luxurious hospitality services to over two million visitors annually by 2033. The masterplan's design will showcase local traditional and architectural styles, promoting both the cultural and landscape heritage of the region. It will consist of six distinct development zones: Tahlal, Sahab, Sabrah, Jareen, Rijal, and Red Rock. Each zone will boast world-class facilities, including hotels, luxury mountain resorts, residential chalets, villas, premium mansion sites, entertainment and commercial attractions, as well as outdoor experiences dedicated to sports, adventure, wellness, and culture.

In the first phase, expected to be completed by 2027, Soudah Peaks will offer 940 hotel keys, 391 residential units, and 32,000 square metres of retail space. Throughout its development, Soudah Peaks remains deeply committed to environmental preservation, following sustainability standards and contributing to the Saudi Green Initiative. Less than 1 percent of the vast 627 square kilometres of the project area will be used for construction, underscoring its dedication to protecting and preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage of the region.

As Soudah Development Company, a closed joint-stock company owned by PIF, continues to invest in this visionary project, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a major player in the global tourism industry. Soudah Peaks will undoubtedly redefine luxury mountain tourism, attracting adventurers and seekers of opulence from around the world.


Ras Al Khaimah Launches Tourism Excellence Awards to Honour Hospitality Trailblazers

Ras Al Khaimah Launches Tourism Excellence Awards to Honour Hospitality Trailblazers

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 31, 2025

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) made a landmark move in the Emirate’s hospitality journey with the debut of the Tourism Excellence Awards, a prestigious platform honouring those transforming Ras Al Khaimah into one of the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Public Services Department in Ras Al Khaimah, the inaugural ceremony took place on 21 May 2025 at the stunning Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island.

The awards celebrated outstanding performers across six dynamic categories:

  • Corporate Hospitality Excellence

  • Individual Innovation

  • Culinary Artistry

  • Hospitality Leadership

  • Community Involvement

  • Environmental Responsibility

This comprehensive recognition structure reflects RAKTDA’s intent to spotlight excellence at every level—be it individuals, teams, or companies.

Speaking at the event, Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA, said,

“The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Excellence Awards mark an important milestone in our journey to become a leading global destination. By recognising those who go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable experiences, we are not only celebrating their achievements, but fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and community engagement.”

More than just accolades, the awards align with RAKTDA’s wider mission of building a sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich tourism ecosystem. They aim to enhance traveller confidence, elevate service standards, foster innovation, and drive collaboration between businesses, local communities, and government bodies.

Phillips added,

“These awards mark a new era of recognition and inspiration in Ras Al Khaimah’s exceptional tourism story—one driven by shared ambition, pride in local achievement, and a commitment to excellence at every touchpoint.”

For more information and interview requests, reach out to:
Nidhie Raj Singh | +91 9999 266134 | nidhies@branditindia.com
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To explore Ras Al Khaimah’s journey and initiatives, visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.com
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Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer

Vietnam Golf Coast Evokes a Sense of Place This Summer

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 28, 2025

The Vietnam Golf Coast is calling travellers this summer with its unique blend of lush landscapes, cultural immersion, and exclusive seasonal packages. Stretching across Central Vietnam, this renowned golf destination is offering more than just top-tier fairways—it’s inviting players to experience the soul of Vietnam through its rice paddies, highland mists, seaside breezes, and traditional flavours.

At Laguna Golf Lang Co, harvest season paints the course with shades of gold as rice paddies reach their peak through May and June. “This is one of the most enchanting times to play,” says Stephen Banks, Director of Golf, noting how the course deeply reflects Vietnam’s natural rhythms and traditions. This summer, golfers can enjoy curated offers like the Golf & Spa package, the time-friendly Golf Express deal, and the Golden Rice Flash Sales that celebrate the vibrant harvest.

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Nestled in the cool highlands beyond Da Nang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club offers a completely different ambiance. Surrounded by pine trees and misty mountain air, it provides a tranquil escape from the coastal heat. “Every time I walk this course, I’m reminded why golf in the mountains feels different – calmer, clearer, and more connected,” shares General Manager Simon Mees. The summer lineup includes a Twi-Night Golf package, with weekday slots available until 2:15 PM (3:00 PM on Wednesdays) at just VND2,600,000 (USD100), complete with a refreshing beer. The Night Golf experience, starting at VND2,500,000 per player, adds local flair with craft beer and Ba Na sausage.

Closer to the coast, Montgomerie Links offers the classic charm of seaside golf, where the sea breeze dances through casuarina pines and fishing boats drift along the horizon. “Montgomerie Links captures the spirit of true links golf, but with a distinct Vietnamese character,” says Club Manager Le Vo Hoang Van. Their Stay & Play package is available until September 30, 2025, starting from just VND4,770,000, offering unbeatable value by the beach.

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What sets the Vietnam Golf Coast apart is its ability to fuse sport with culture. From caddies in traditional non la hats to clubhouses serving iconic Vietnamese dishes like ca phe sua da, banh mi, pho, and bun thit nuong, every detail adds to the experience.

Off the greens, golfers are spoilt for choice. Laguna Golf Lang Co is close to the historic city of Hue, while Ba Na Hills and Montgomerie Links are a quick drive from Da Nang’s beaches, fireworks festival, and buzzing food scene. And of course, the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and timeless charm, is always worth a visit.

For golfers seeking more than just a round, this summer on the Vietnam Golf Coast promises a sense of place, pace, and unforgettable play.


Dharoi Adventure Fest Set to Begin on May 23 at Gujarat’s Dharoi Dam

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 21, 2025

Adventure seekers, get ready! The Dharoi Adventure Fest is all set to kick off from May 23, 2025, at the picturesque Dharoi Dam in Mehsana, Gujarat. This much-awaited event, inaugurated by Hon’ble CM Shri Bhupendra Patel, promises non-stop action and fun with a wide array of air, water, and land-based activities.

Recognised as Gujarat’s first and India’s longest adventure fest, the event will showcase an exciting mix of thrills—from parasailing and paramotoring to power boating, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and more. It’s a full-fledged adventure destination rolled into one unforgettable experience.

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As the sun sets, the excitement continues with cultural events, stargazing, astronomy camps, and nature walks, offering a perfect blend of thrill and tranquillity.

For those looking to stay, the festival offers a range of accommodations—luxury tents to budget dorms, all with included meals and full access to the fest.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Dharoi Dam on the Sabarmati River, the location is fast emerging as Gujarat’s newest hotspot for eco-adventure tourism.

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, the Dharoi Adventure Fest is the perfect summer getaway packed with excitement, culture, and the great outdoors.

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