The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism project, has released the findings of a new study into the perceptions of Saudi youth and their parents towards the tourism and hospitality industries.

The research, based on more than 850 face-to-face interviews, found that young Saudis are less interested in careers in more ‘traditional’ sectors such as petrochemicals and oil and gas, but favour those within the country’s strategic growth industries aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

In total, nine in 10 (91%) young Saudis were interested in pursuing a career in tourism, compared to just over three quarters (77%) who were interested in a career in petrochemicals. “We are only at the beginning of Saudi Arabia’s exciting transition to a new and diversified economy and future generations have a chance to play their part,” said John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC.

“A career in tourism or hospitality offers a range of opportunities like no other. From managing an international hotel group, to becoming a world class chef or entrepreneur, the sector has something for everyone. The Red Sea Development Company is at the heart of this emerging industry and once completed our destination will support 70,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs providing opportunities to people throughout the country,” he added.

Young Saudis and their parents are acknowledging the roles that tourism and hospitality will play in the country’s new diversified economy with two thirds (69%) and six in 10 (59%) respectively believing the sectors will become more important for the Saudi economy over the next 10 years.

They are also optimistic that these roles will be a key driver of employment for Saudi nationals, with over two thirds (69%) of young Saudis believing that expanding tourism and hospitality industries would provide jobs for Saudi nationals.

The appeal to young Saudis of a career in tourism or hospitality is driven by the perceptions of the lifestyle it will provide. Over eight in 10 (84%) believe that a career in tourism and hospitality will give them the salary and resources they expect to sustain themselves.