But there's good reason for this $400 million (€365 million) business deal: Saudi Arabia is pouring billions into its tourism sector. Fastest tourism growth in the Middle EastAfter a yearslong publicity barrage, it's difficult to find impartial analysis of Saudi Arabia's tourism plans. Businesses like Habitas previously said their first hotel in Saudi Arabia, Habitas AlUla, would use solar power and refrain from single-use plastics. In 2019, after influencers began posting pictures on social media about Saudi tourism, some fans were critical. "But [Saudi Arabia] is a particularly controversial destination and does pose an ethical dilemma for travelers."

Source: New York Times June 24, 2023 17:17 UTC