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Additionally, plans have emerged to develop KAEC into a tourism destination in its own right, featuring luxury accommodations and easy access to the Red Sea. This ambition, if realized, could create a unique niche within the Saudi tourism market that balances religious devotion with luxurious experiences.
Conclusion: A Waiting Game
The future of the King Abdullah Economic City remains ambiguous. It holds promise as an engine for economic development and a solution to urban migration; however, it also risks becoming a cautionary tale of ambition unfulfilled. The factors that will ultimately determine its trajectory involve investment commitment, strategic planning, and the willingness of Saudi leadership to adapt to an ever-evolving urban landscape.