The Tourism Development Fund announces a slate of major projects in Aseer and new international partnerships at the TOURISE 2025 forum, signaling robust growth for the Kingdom’s ambitious tourism vision.
RIYADH: In a powerful demonstration of its rapidly expanding tourism sector, Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Development Fund (TDF) announced strategic projects and partnerships worth SR2.9 billion ($773 million) on the first day of the “TOURISE 2025” forum.
The announcements, made under the patronage of Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Aseer Region, underscore a significant push to develop integrated destinations and diversify the Kingdom’s tourism offerings.
Aseer Region Emerges as Key Tourism Hub
A major portion of the investment is earmarked for the Aseer region, a key area being developed into a year-round destination. The TDF unveiled five integrated tourism projects that will add 1,211 hotel keys to the region’s capacity.
The projects include:
- Jared Aseer
- Ard Al Dabab
- Al-Hadhba Park
- Westin Resort
- The House Residences
Future development phases also include projects in the Heefah and Jabal Abdullah areas under the “Mantis” hotel brand.
Forging International Partnerships
Beyond regional projects, the TDF signed several key memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with international players to bring new brands and concepts to the Kingdom.
A partnership with Spain’s Melia Hotels International will develop approximately 1,000 hotel rooms and introduce new brands like “ZEL” to the Saudi market. Another MoU with ina Hospitality will see the luxury Relais & Chateaux brand enter the Kingdom for the first time.
In a landmark deal, the TDF also partnered with Italy’s Arsenale to develop “Dream of the Desert.” This project will be the first of its kind in the Middle East—a luxury train offering a hotel travel experience across 1,300 km, with stops at multiple tourist destinations to showcase Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Building a Sustainable Tourism Economy
The fund also announced the “Sareena” project, which focuses on nature-based hospitality. This initiative represents a new model for activating Saudi Arabia’s natural assets by creating trails and experiences that stimulate tourist traffic and create local economic opportunities.
With these strategic announcements, the Tourism Development Fund is cementing its role as a key enabler of Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy, building the infrastructure and partnerships necessary to position the Kingdom as a leading global destination.
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