Ecotourism in Saudi Arabia: Investment opportunities and 7 sites in the Eastern Province
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its rapid steps towards diversifying income sources and promoting sustainability concepts, with the ecotourism as one of the most important pillars of the green economy within the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. In this context, the National Center for Vegetation Cover and Combating Desertification revealed a package of promising investment opportunities, stressing that this sector is witnessing increasing global growth, making it the focus of attention for local and international investors.
Promising investment opportunities in the Eastern Province
Huda Al-Buqami, Investment Director at the National Center for Vegetation Cover, announced the offering of seven new environmental sites for investment in the Eastern Province . She invited investors to take advantage of these opportunities, which range from long-term contracts of up to 25 years to seasonal contracts lasting from three to six months. These sites boast natural features that make them ideal destinations for winter activities and camping, thus enhancing the region's appeal on the local and regional tourism map.
National context: Vegetation cover and Vision 2030
This investment drive comes in response to the "Saudi Green" initiative and the "Quality of Life" program, through which the Kingdom aims to protect and rehabilitate natural areas to become sustainable havens. The Kingdom boasts a unique biodiversity and rich plant life, encompassing more than 2,300 plant species distributed across its plains, mountains, and coasts, giving it a significant competitive advantage in the global ecotourism market.
Global economic indicators and local impact
Data reviewed by the center indicated that investment in ecotourism within forests and national parks is among the fastest growing globally, at an annual rate of between 3% and 5%. Al-Buqami cited successful global models, such as Canada, where direct tourism spending reaches $7.5 billion annually, and the United States, where the camping and carnival sector generates nearly $40 billion in spending. These figures reflect the enormous potential the Kingdom can realize by activating this sector, which will contribute to creating new job opportunities and stimulating economic activity in remote areas.
Geopark sites and enhancing international standing
In a move that strengthens the Kingdom's international presence, sites in northern Riyadh and Salma have been registered within UNESCO's Geoparks Network. This international recognition opens the door to developing innovative tourism products that integrate geology, nature, and culture, attracting a new segment of tourists seeking unique experiences, and reaffirms the Kingdom's commitment to global environmental standards.
Investment and partnership mechanisms
The National Center for Vegetation Cover works in conjunction with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture to promote these opportunities through the "Fursah" platform and the center's website. The center's role extends beyond simply offering opportunities; it also involves building strategic partnerships with government and private entities and studying the competitive advantages of each region to ensure viable economic returns while strictly adhering to the protection of natural resources and preserving the ecological balance.
