Trojena: Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Mountain Resort Redefining Winter Tourism in the Gulf

Saudi Arabia is developing Trojena, a landmark mountain destination within the $500 billion NEOM megaproject, with the ambition of becoming a global winter tourism hub. Located in the Sarawat Mountains at an elevation of 2,600 meters, Trojena is set to challenge regional norms by offering the first outdoor skiing experience in the Gulf region.

One of Trojena’s standout features is its 36 kilometers of ski slopes, made possible by naturally sub-zero winter temperatures. To ensure reliable snow coverage, the resort will employ advanced artificial snowmaking technology, combining traditional fangun systems with all-weather solutions. The system is designed to operate on 100% renewable energy while maximizing water recovery, aligning with NEOM’s sustainability goals.

Beyond its three-month ski season, Trojena is envisioned as a year-round destination. Visitors will be able to enjoy mountain biking, hiking trails, and water activities on a 2.8-kilometer man-made freshwater lake, ensuring continuous tourism throughout the year.

Trojena is also set to make history as the host of the 2029 Asian Winter Games, marking the first time the event will be held in West Asia. This milestone underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in global sports and international tourism.

As of early 2026, construction is advancing on critical infrastructure, including tunnels and the striking 32-level vertical ski village known as “The Vault.” While the original completion target was 2026, reports suggest that infrastructure challenges and rising costs may push full readiness closer to the 2029 Games timeline.

Economically, Trojena is expected to play a vital role in Vision 2030, attracting an estimated 700,000 tourists annually and accommodating 7,000 permanent residents by 2030. The project represents a bold step in Saudi Arabia’s strategy to diversify its economy, redefine regional tourism, and showcase what future mountain destinations can look like in the Middle East.