The Eastern Province is expected to witness the implementation of more than 650 tourism projects valued at over SAR12.7 billion (approximately $3.39 billion).
With the addition of investments in new projects exceeding SAR21 billion ($5.6 billion), total tourism investments amount to around SAR33.7 billion (nearly $9 billion), reflecting a growth in the sector.
Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb said tourism investments in the region are experiencing qualitative growth, adding that the Eastern Province enjoys competitive advantages that make it attractive for tourism investment.
The minister said the region has achieved positive results in sector performance, welcoming more than 13.4 million tourists whose spending exceeded SAR18.5 billion ($4.9 billion), underscoring the rising demand for tourism services.
Tourism Diversity
Al-Khateeb revealed that more than 650 approved tourism projects would contribute to improved tourism, in addition to strengthening partnerships and supporting private sector participation. This, he said, reflects the rapid growth pace and the achievements that the tourism sector in the Eastern Province has witnessed.
High-quality projects in the region enhance competitiveness, supported by the Tourism Development Fund, said Al-Khateeb. These projects contribute to improving quality of life and offering integrated visitor experiences, reinforcing the region’s position as a leading tourist destination on the Arabian Gulf coast, he added.
The minister met with Eastern Province’s tourism employees, who briefed him on promising opportunities and made proposals aimed at developing career paths for workers in the sector.
Al Khobar Season
Al Khobar Season 2025 has achieved remarkable success since its launch, featuring a seasonal program spanning nearly 90 days. Supported by the Sharqia Development Authority and the Saudi Tourism Authority, the season hosted events across more than 20 locations, attracting over one million visitors and involving more than 50 partners from the private sector.
Al Khobar Season enhances the Eastern Province’s status as a major tourism and entertainment destination through experiences that blend entertainment, culture, arts, and sports. This contributes to improving quality of life, achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, and developing the tourism sector.