Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU)
The dedicated government authority overseeing the preservation, development, and global promotion of AlUla as a world-class heritage and tourism destination.
Definition
The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) is a Saudi government authority established by royal decree in 2017 to preserve, develop, and promote AlUla as a global destination for heritage, culture, nature, and luxury tourism.
Overview
The RCU was established with a comprehensive mandate covering archaeological preservation, tourism development, urban planning, environmental conservation, and community engagement in the AlUla governorate. The commission operates with significant autonomy and direct royal patronage, reflecting the strategic importance of the AlUla project to the Kingdom’s cultural and tourism ambitions.
Led by a board chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the RCU has assembled an international team of experts in archaeology, heritage management, hospitality design, and sustainable development. A landmark intergovernmental agreement with France (the AFALULA partnership) brings French expertise in museum curation, archaeological research, and cultural programming to the project.
The RCU’s work encompasses the restoration of Hegra and other ancient sites, the development of luxury hospitality (including the Jean Nouvel-designed Sharaan Resort), the creation of arts and cultural programmes, the rehabilitation of the AlUla oasis, the establishment of nature reserves, and the improvement of infrastructure including AlUla International Airport. The commission also manages community development programmes for AlUla’s existing residents.
Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Established | 2017 |
| Chairman | Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman |
| International Partner | France (AFALULA) |
| Key Sites | Hegra, Dadan, Jabal Ikmah, Old Town |
| Tourism Target | 2 million visitors annually |
| Flagship Hotel | Sharaan Resort (Jean Nouvel) |
| Airport | AlUla International Airport |
| Conservation | Nature reserves and oasis rehabilitation |
Role in Vision 2030
The RCU is the institutional vehicle through which Vision 2030’s heritage tourism ambitions are being realized at AlUla. The commission demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its multi-civilisational heritage while developing world-class tourism infrastructure. AlUla serves as a model for heritage-led economic development that creates employment, attracts investment, and builds cultural pride.
The RCU’s work also supports Vision 2030’s environmental objectives through ecological restoration and conservation programmes, and its community development initiatives demonstrate the plan’s emphasis on inclusive growth that benefits local populations.