Innovation

The first innovation that Khaled made when establishing the Perla branch in Jubailiya was to install special external tanks to purify water and recycle grey water from showers and swimming pools to use in planting and tending the resort's external plants and washing the internal street and the external entrance of the resort in order to reduce water waste and rationalize it. This innovation is related to Goal 6 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which is Clean Water and Sanitation. It is related because the company recycles the water that comes out of the swimming pools and shower water, recycles it and uses it in alternative ways that help the environment.

The second innovation was also in the Perla Jubailiya branch in 2019, and it involved placing solar panels on the resort's roofs. It took about 8 months for them to be installed in the resort to reduce the use and rationalization of artificial electricity. This innovation is related to goal 7 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which is Affordable and Clean Energy, because the company used a renewable energy source, namely solar panels, to preserve the environment and rationalize artificial energy to reduce carbon emissions.

Inspiration

Khaled was inspired to invent solar panels because he had a farm in the north of Riyadh. He installed solar panels with an area of ​​approximately 3 metres. The purpose of these panels was to help farmers with their daily needs. “The solar panels served them with air conditioners, served them with television, and served them with refrigerators. This is a great benefit. People in the middle of the desert, and they have nothing but solar panels. What is greater than this?” After that, he liked the idea of ​​solar panels and that they preserve the environment and reduce carbon emissions that affect the ozone layer. He had prior contact with a solar energy company that was considered new to the market, but he wanted to try installing solar panels because it was a new idea for startups at the time. However, this is what increased his enthusiasm for installing solar panels, especially since not many startups had installed solar panels or any renewable energy sources. “I am probably among the first ten who installed solar panels in Riyadh for small commercial companies." From here, Khaled began to develop a plan and communicate with the solar panel company to start working on installing solar panels in the resort.

Overall impact

The sustainability initiatives at Tala'ea Al Tawreed Holiday Homes have driven both immediate and long-term benefits, enhancing its operational efficiency and market appeal. In the short term, the installation of solar panels cuts electricity costs, freeing up resources that could be reinvested into enhancing guest experiences. This led to a noticeable increase in occupancy rates and customer interest, as visitors appreciated the resort’s eco-friendly measures.

In the long term, these innovations have established Tala'ea as a frontrunner in sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia, building a brand that resonates with eco-conscious travellers. The introduction of grey water recycling not only supports water conservation but also enhances the resort's landscaping, improving its aesthetic appeal and attracting guests seeking sustainable accommodations. This commitment has led to stronger customer loyalty, reflected in repeat bookings and positive online reviews. Additionally, Tala'ea’s reputation for sustainability has unlocked new partnerships and investment opportunities.

Together, these short-term gains and long-term strategic positioning underscore Tala'ea Al Tawreed's success, demonstrating how sustainability can effectively contribute to both profitability and social responsibility in the hospitality industry.

Business benefit

Since Tala'ea Al Tawreed Holiday Homes implemented innovative practices such as solar energy utilization and grey water recycling, the business has experienced significant growth and positive outcomes. By installing solar panels, the resort reduced its electricity costs, which directly contributed to increased revenue. These financial savings allowed Khaled Aldurarbi to reinvest in the business, enhancing facilities and services that attracted more guests. As a result, the resort saw a rise in occupancy rates, leading to higher overall revenue and profitability.

Additionally, the commitment to sustainability has fostered a positive work environment, leading to increased employee retention and well-being. By hiring 120–140 employees, the resort not only provided job opportunities but also created a workplace culture that values environmental responsibility. Employees take pride in working for a company that prioritizes eco-friendly practices, which has resulted in higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates. This positive atmosphere has further contributed to the resort's success, as happy employees are more likely to deliver exceptional service to guests.

Furthermore, the innovative approach has opened new markets and investment opportunities for Tala'ea Al Tawreed Holiday Homes. The resort's reputation for sustainability has attracted partnerships with other eco-conscious businesses and investors interested in supporting green initiatives. This expansion into new markets has allowed the resort to diversify its offerings, creating new products and services that cater to environmentally aware travellers. Overall, the strategic innovations implemented by Khaled have not only enhanced the business’s financial performance but have also established it as a leader in sustainable tourism in Saudi Arabia.

Social and environmental benefit

Tala'ea Al Tawreed’s use of solar energy and grey water recycling significantly reduces environmental impact while benefiting society in multiple ways. By incorporating solar power, the resort reduces its reliance on traditional electricity sources like oil, which is widely used in Saudi Arabia. This shift not only helps lower the resort’s carbon footprint but also conserves valuable natural resources, like oil, which are typically consumed for energy production. As one of the first ten startups in Riyadh to adopt solar technology, Tala'ea sets a strong precedent for other local businesses, encouraging broader adoption of sustainable practices across the region.

Additionally, Khaled Aldurarbi's initiative to recycle grey water from showers and swimming pools has allowed the resort to reduce water waste by repurposing it for irrigation and cleaning external areas. This helps conserve clean water, a critical resource in desert regions like Saudi Arabia and promotes a greener, more attractive landscape around the resort, benefiting both guests and local biodiversity. In the long term, these practices contribute to broader societal goals, like those outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). This innovation fosters awareness of eco-friendly practices, inspiring other businesses and individuals to take similar actions, ultimately benefiting future generations and contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry. 

Interview

Khaled Aldurarbi, Founder