RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province is set for a significant tourism expansion following the approval of 17 new projects valued at over SR12.7 billion ($3.38 billion) as part of the Kingdom’s dedicated fund portfolio.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, these developments will lead to the creation of more than 2,200 hotel rooms, representing a major boost for the region’s hospitality sector.
Additionally, another 10 projects have been approved, totaling over SR10.6 billion, which will contribute an extra 1,400 hotel rooms. These initiatives are part of the ongoing efforts under the Saudi Tourism Development Fund to enhance the region’s tourism infrastructure and align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.
This announcement was made during a meeting between Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb and a group of investors and entrepreneurs from the Eastern Province. Badr Al-Reziza, chairman of the Eastern Province Chamber of Commerce, was also present, highlighting the investment opportunities in the tourism sector.
Al-Khateeb emphasized the Eastern Province’s status as a premier tourist destination, showcasing its diverse geography and historical significance.
“The region features extensive coastlines along the Arabian Gulf, providing unique opportunities for beach tourism,” he stated. He also noted the rich heritage of the province, which enhances its appeal to both local and international visitors.
During the meeting, Al-Khateeb reiterated the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with the private sector, which he identified as a primary driver of tourism development in Saudi Arabia.
He highlighted the importance of encouraging investments and facilitating investor support, including the Tourism Investment Enablers Program, which aims to reduce government fees in the hospitality sector by 22 percent. The suspension of municipal fees on hospitality facilities was also mentioned as a measure to stimulate further investment.
Al-Reziza echoed these sentiments, noting the Eastern Province’s prominence as a tourism destination. He pointed out the variety of activities and attractions available, which include cultural, heritage, and coastal experiences, along with family-friendly parks and natural resources. He stressed that tourism is a vital driver of local development, significantly improving the quality of life for residents.
The Eastern Province is already witnessing a surge in tourism, with recent statistics indicating that over 19 million tourists, both domestic and international, visited the region in 2023—a substantial increase from previous years. Tourist spending in the area reached SR27.8 billion, reflecting a 27 percent rise compared to the prior year.
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is flourishing, having seen a 656 percent increase since 2019, with 17.5 million international visitors projected for 2024, according to the Ministry of Tourism. This growth underscores the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance its tourism offerings and attract global travelers.
A key factor in this expansion was the introduction of the first tourism visa in 2019, which significantly boosted international tourism. Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to welcome 100 million tourists by 2030—a target already achieved seven years ahead of schedule in 2023.
On a national level, tourism has become one of the largest sources of employment for citizens, with approximately 900,000 nationals currently working in the sector.
