JEDDAH: Ecotourism has gained significant traction in recent years as more people become aware of the environmental impact of their travel choices.
The growing trend of ecotourism presented a unique opportunity for investors to not only profit but also contribute to sustainable development and conservation efforts.
Additionally, the market is expanding across all regions, driven by rising environmental awareness and government-backed sustainability initiatives.
According to Global Growth Insights, the market size was valued at $629.85 billion in 2024, projected to reach $753.43 billion in 2025, and expected to climb to $901.25 billion by 2026.
Interestingly, Middle Eastern countries are emerging as key destinations for luxury ecotourism and desert conservation experiences. Among those nations is Saudi Arabia.
Cave resorts in Al-Baha's Shada Al-Asfal Mountain are emerging as favorite destinations in the southwestern region's tourism destinations. (SPA)
Through Vision 2030, the Kingdom is investing in sustainable tourism mega-projects and ecotourism. Sustainable tourism has emerged as a significant segment within Saudi Arabia’s vast tourism industry, given its importance and impact.
Over the past few years, there has been increasing interest in Saudi Arabia, much of it attributed to the Kingdom’s diverse eco-tourist destinations.
Indeed, Saudi Arabia recognizes the potential of ecotourism and is working to become the region’s destination of choice.
Farasan islands in Jazan region is one of the Kingdom's favorite ecotourism destinations. (SPA file photo)
With its vast and varied landscapes, the Kingdom has several high-priority regions, including Asir and Jazan in the south and the Red Sea islands in the west. If all goes well, ecotourism is projected to contribute to the Kingdom’s target revenue of $133 billion in tourism by 2030.
From initiatives to preserve natural landscapes to projects to repopulate regions with native wildlife, the country is gearing up to open its doors to a world of nature lovers and travelers seeking the next breathtaking ecotourism spot.
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Speaking to Arab News during the 27th session of the Near East Forester and Range Commission, Hoda Al-Bugami, general director of investment at the Saudi National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, said that there are numerous investment opportunities within the center’s plan to enhance environmental sustainability and open new horizons for natural tourism in the Kingdom.
“Ecotourism is a promising sector growing at a rate of 3-5 percent annually. Consider the camping and caravan market in national parks, which represents a vital economic sector with annual spending estimated at approximately $48 billion,” Al-Bugami said.
Sustainable tourism has emerged as a significant segment within Saudi Arabia’s vast tourism industry, given its importance and impact. (Supplied)
In addition, she noted that direct ecotourism spending in Canada amounts to $7.5 billion, while annual nature tourism spending in Europe reaches $40 billion.
She added: “The center works to prepare sites in several aspects, including protecting vegetation cover and preventing environmental violations such as logging and overgrazing, developing natural resources and biodiversity, and creating natural environments and habitats.
“All of these factors attract investors, offering seasonal investment opportunities of up to three months and long-term investment opportunities that provide flexibility for investments of up to 25 years.”
DID YOU KNOW?
• Ecotourism can help reduce people’s negative impact on the environment through raising their awareness and appreciation for nature.
• The IUCN defines ecotourism as environmentally responsible visits to relatively undisturbed natural regions to enjoy and appreciate nature.
• Tourism is a billion-dollar industry, and many countries are investing in it, including countries in Europe as well as Australia.
She also affirmed that investment in ecotourism within Saudi Arabia’s natural reserves strengthens the economy, bolsters local communities, and aligns with the strategic vision for a sustainable green economy.
“Forests and rangelands are the backbone of improving livelihoods for the local community and increasing the gross domestic product,” she said.
Ecotourism offers more than an opportunity to explore unique landscapes. Saudi Arabia is home to various locations that make it special to explore, such as AlUla with its beautiful and ancient oasis, Asir with its mountains and coastline, the wonders of the Red Sea, and Al-Ahsa Oasis, which is the World’s largest oasis.
From initiatives to preserve natural landscapes to projects to repopulate regions with native wildlife, the country is gearing up to open its doors to a world of nature lovers and travelers seeking the next breathtaking ecotourism spot. (Supplied)
Ecotourism investment opportunities are abundant for local investors seeking to align their financial goals with sustainable development objectives.
Whether it is through supporting green accommodations, wildlife conservation initiatives, community-based tourism projects, or renewable energy infrastructure, these investment opportunities not only foster long-term profitability but also position business owners as leaders in the vital transition towards more sustainable tourism practices.
