Saudi Arabia’s Asir region is set to execute major projects, including the Seven Entertainment Complex, by 2025. The Asir Development Authority aims to attract 8 million tourists by 2030, collaborating with key stakeholders and leveraging investments totaling approximately SR28 billion to enhance the region’s tourism potential. The region is also preparing for hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
In anticipation of a transformative decade for tourism, Saudi Arabia’s Asir region is progressing towards the execution phase of several significant projects scheduled for completion in 2025. According to Hashem Al-Dabbagh, Acting CEO of the Asir Development Authority, the region aims to attract approximately 8 million tourists by 2030. Key developments like the Seven Entertainment Complex by the airport will mark the transition from planning to actual investment within this year.
The Asir Development Authority is collaborating with various governmental and private entities to facilitate these developments. Over the past three years, the authority has established key agreements with stakeholders such as the Ministries of Tourism, Investment, and Culture. Al-Dabbagh emphasized the mandate of the authority to oversee and coordinate these projects, ensuring successful implementation through partnerships with both public and private sectors.
In addition, Al-Dabbagh outlined various investment efforts being made within the region. Currently, the authority has approximately SR28 billion (about $7.45 billion) worth of investments in the pipeline. These investments, however, comprise only a portion of the overall financial influx, which includes significant contributions from the Public Investment Fund. Al-Dabbagh reiterated that while some projects will come to fruition, others may evolve or not materialize as initially planned.
He assertively stated, “Asir is the place to be if you are looking to invest in the tourism sector or adjacent sectors in Saudi Arabia.” This aligns with the government’s strategic vision to position Asir as a year-round premier destination, leveraging its unique cultural and natural assets. Furthermore, Asir will play a vital role in hosting events like the FIFA World Cup in 2034, further enhancing the region’s visibility as a tourist hub.
The third Saudi Tourism Forum, organized in collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Tourism Development Fund, serves as a vital platform for showcasing developments in the kingdom’s tourism sector. The event comprises over 100 exhibitors, providing insights into major investment projects and collaborative opportunities aimed at boosting national tourism growth.
The Asir region of Saudi Arabia is undergoing significant developmental changes aimed at transforming it into a major tourist destination. With a strategic plan set to attract millions of tourists by 2030, the Asir Development Authority is facilitating numerous projects to enhance tourism in the area. The region’s diverse cultural and natural offerings are being leveraged to establish it as a year-round destination, which is essential for Saudi Arabia’s larger tourism goals, including hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
In summary, the Asir region’s shift towards executing major tourism projects marks a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to elevate its global tourism profile. With a clear focus on collaboration and strategic investment, the Asir Development Authority is poised to make significant progress in achieving its target of welcoming millions of tourists by 2030. The upcoming developments, including the Seven Entertainment Complex, symbolize this commitment to transforming Asir into a premier destination.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
