This week Melissa is joined by world-renowned tourism visionary and CEO of Saudi Arabia's Diriyah Gate ‍Development Authority, Jerry Inzerillo, about his work to transform Diriyah, which is considered the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, into one of the world’s top international destinations by 2030. Previously the Vice Chairman of Forbes Travel Guide and awarded the prestigious “Tourism for Peace” award, Jerry is a travel industry veteran who launched Atlantis in the Bahamas and Dubai, as well as Sun City in South Africa. He is one of the principal leaders in Saudi shaping the seismic shift of the country as it moves away from its dependence on oil and expands into other industries, principally tourism.

Diriyah is a massive multi-billion dollar project, considered to be one of the most ambitious projects of this century.  At Diriyah, Jerry and his team are literally building a city from scratch and transforming it into an urban oasis with sporting and wellness facilities, cultural and educational centers, and resorts.

Melissa and Jerry discuss the rapid transformation of Saudi Arabia, the changes they’ve witnessed in only the last few years, and the drastic impact tourism is having on the country. Jerry gives an inside look at how history is being made in Saudi and his hopes and plans for the future of Diriyah.

Plus, Melissa speaks with Indagare Productions Director, Kathryn Nathanson - who visited Saudi Arabia with her in the fall of 2022 - about the idea of traveling to the Kingdom today. They’ll discuss their personal experiences in the country and provide important information to better help travelers understand Saudi Arabia.