Soudah Development Project

The Soudah Development (SD) Project is a Saudi megaproject that aims to develop infrastructure and introduce new entertainment sectors and advanced tourist destinations in Aseer, southwest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This project aims to transform the mountainous region in Aseer into a world-class destination, in line with the Public Investment Fund’s investment strategy that focuses on the development of the entertainment and tourism sectors to achieve the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030.

The project was launched on February 24, 2021, following an announcement by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, who serves as the crown prince, prime minister, and chairman of the board of directors of the Public Investment Fund. The aim is to enhance and expand the tourism industry within the Kingdom, with the aspiration of making a significant contribution of approximately SAR29 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030.

The project offers a range of local and international investment opportunities and facilitates the establishment of high-quality partnerships with both the private and public sectors. This collaboration aims to develop sustainable tourism infrastructure tailored to the needs of the region and its visitors. The project places a special emphasis on the development and preservation of the natural environment by adhering to the urban planning code and erecting projects to ensure the attraction of more than two million visitors annually by 2030.

SD is a closed joint-stock real estate development company owned by the Kingdom's Public Investment Fund. Spanning an area of 627 km, it aims to develop al-Soudah area and parts of Rijal Alma Governorate in Aseer Region, southwest of the Kingdom.

The project has been allocated a budget of SAR14 billion, with a dedicated SAR3 billion for infrastructure. The project encompasses thirty commercial and entertainment projects, which will yield approximately 10,700 employment opportunities. Furthermore, the project aims to deliver 2,700 hotel rooms and construct 1,300 housing units by 2030. The project is committed to preserving the area's resources, celebrating its rich history and heritage, and drawing both domestic and international tourists.

Al-Soudah is the highest mountain peak in the Kingdom, towering at around 3,000 m above sea level. The region is also geographically diverse, with abundant high mountains, deep valleys, flat plains, and scenic vistas overlooking villages from high altitudes. The region is also renowned for its cool weather year-round.