Saudi Arabia’s Asir region will commence execution of major tourism projects in 2025, targeting 8 million visitors by 2030. The Seven Entertainment Complex will be a highlight of these developments, backed by extensive government partnerships and an investment pipeline exceeding SR28 billion. With an approved regional strategy, Asir aims to enhance its position as a premier global tourism destination, coinciding with hosting parts of the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
In 2025, Saudi Arabia’s Asir region will transition from planning to execution of various major projects, particularly the Seven Entertainment Complex, which is anticipated to be completed by that year. Hashem Al-Dabbagh, the Acting CEO of the Asir Development Authority, stated that efforts are underway to promote tourism in the region, aiming to attract about 8 million visitors by 2030. Partnerships with several government ministries have been established, underlining the region’s aspiration to become a global tourism destination while ensuring sustainable development. Al-Dabbagh emphasized the significance of 2025 as a turning point in project execution, as multiple developments are expected to progress from ideation to actual investment. The authority is managing approximately SR28 billion ($7.45 billion) in investments across five phases, with the prospects of further partnership with the Public Investment Fund anticipated. He asserted that Asir possesses a unique strategic advantage, being the only region with an officially approved tourism strategy from the central government, expanding its potential for investments in tourism and related sectors. Additionally, the region is set to host part of the FIFA World Cup in 2034, which Al-Dabbagh noted as a substantial opportunity for increased visitor engagement in the area. The third Saudi Tourism Forum, held in Riyadh, showcased over 100 exhibitors, providing insights into ongoing tourism developments and investment strategies within the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant transformation in its tourism sector, with an emphasis on developing diverse regions to attract global visitors. The Asir region, known for its rich cultural and natural resources, is pivotal in this strategy due to its approved development plan that targets sustainable tourism growth. Asir’s plans align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to elevate the Kingdom’s profile as an international tourist destination. The region’s role in hosting global events, such as the FIFA World Cup, further underscores its strategic importance in national tourism aspirations.
The Asir Development Authority, led by Acting CEO Hashem Al-Dabbagh, is poised to initiate significant tourism projects in 2025, including the transformative Seven Entertainment Complex. The ongoing collaborations with governmental entities aim to bolster Asir’s position as a leading tourism destination in Saudi Arabia by aligning with the nation’s long-term Vision 2030. The authority’s ambitious investment plans and hosting of international events present promising opportunities for the region’s economic and cultural development.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
