Aseer Development Strategy

Aseer Development Strategy is a national strategy launched by the Crown Prince, Chairman of the Council of Ministers, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, in 2021 under the slogan "Qimam and Shiyam" (Peaks and Morals). The strategy aims to transform the Aseer region, located in the southwestern part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, into a global tourist destination that will attract more than 10 million visitors by 2030. The Aseer Development Authority is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the strategy.

The strategy aims to achieve comprehensive development for the region by allocating SAR50 billion to finance projects and develop tourist attractions in Aseer, with the goal of becoming a global tourist destination year-round. The strategy also aims to attract and facilitate local and international investments, contributing to supporting the national economy by promoting tourism and culture in the Aseer region, which are considered pillars of economic development in the region.

By 2030, the strategy aims to create new job opportunities and improve the quality of life by enhancing essential services and infrastructure such as transportation, healthcare, and communications, among others.

The strategy works to develop the region in several areas and focuses its interests on three main domains, namely economy, people, and land. The strategy supports the Kingdom's economy through seventeen programs divided into four main pillars, including tourism, agriculture, small and medium enterprises, and facilitating business practices.

The strategy also introduces eight initiatives that focus on the individual, divided into two axes: the first is revitalizing heritage and culture, and the second is building a cohesive society with solid foundations. Additionally, two programs are offered within the framework of environmental preservation, focusing on nature conservation and architectural identity.

The strategy is based on the natural assets that the region possesses, as the Aseer region has 651 archaeological sites and approximately 4,275 heritage villages. The mountains of the region also provide opportunities for engaging in various sports activities. One of the key pillars of the strategy is the art of al-Qatt al-Aseeri, which is renowned in the region and listed in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Aseer region is also distinguished by its moderate climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 24°C in the summer. It features diverse landscapes, including coastal areas, plains, mountains, plateaus, and deserts, and it is known for its rich vegetation, which constitutes around 70 percent of the kingdom's vegetation cover.