Saudi Arabia plans massive oil rig tourist attraction called The Rig

It may sound like the next big thing in reality television, but The Rig is actually a new tourist attraction planned by the Saudi Arabian government.

Set to be built in the Arabian Gulf, The Rig will span an area of more than 150,000 square metres.

Paid for by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the attraction is aimed at strengthening "Saudi Arabia's international entertainment and tourism offering".

In a somewhat ironic twist, the project is based on an oil rig, and is seeking environmental protection for the surrounding area.

Saudi Arabia plans massive oil rig tourist attraction called The Rig
Photo credit: Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)

The Rig will offer hospitality, adventure, aquatic and sporting experiences.

"The project will follow leading global standards and best practices, further supporting the Kingdom's broader efforts on environmental protection," a press release from the PIF said.

"This project is a unique tourism attraction, expected to attract tourists from around the world, while being especially popular with citizens and residents of the GCC countries in the region."

The Rig will have three hotels, world-class restaurants, helipads, and a range of "adventurous activities," including water sports.

Saudi Arabia plans massive oil rig tourist attraction called The Rig
Photo credit: Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)

While Saudi Arabia invests in tourism as part of its "Saudi Vision 2030 objectives," the destination remains one of the most unsafe for members of the LGBTIQ community.

Saudi Arabia has risen from fourth to second in the last three years, on a list of the most unsafe destinations for members of the rainbow community, in the world.

The PIF also recently launched the Saudi Cruising Company.