Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has launched the master plan for the development project of Al-Soudah and parts of Rijal Almaa, titled "Summits of Al-Soudah." This initiative aims to develop a luxurious mountain tourism destination atop the highest peak in Saudi Arabia, at an elevation of 3,015 meters above sea level, in a unique natural and cultural environment in the Asir region in the southwestern part of the Kingdom. This aligns with the Public Investment Fund's efforts to empower promising vital sectors and supports the development strategy of the Asir region, "Summits and Visions."
The Crown Prince stated that the Summits of Al-Soudah will reflect a new face for luxury mountain tourism by providing an unprecedented living experience. The project is expected to contribute to achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the growth of the tourism and entertainment sector, supporting economic growth by helping to increase the cumulative GDP by more than 29 billion riyals and providing thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
Bin Salman said, "The master plan confirms our efforts to activate global initiatives to preserve the environment and natural and heritage resources for future generations, contributing to diversifying income sources and building an economy attractive to international and local investments."
He added, "The project will bring a qualitative addition to the tourism sector and highlight the cultural aspect of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, making the Kingdom a global tourism destination. The world will have the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Summits of Al-Soudah, learn about its unique heritage, authentic culture, and hospitable community, and engage in unforgettable experiences amidst nature and on the clouds."
The "Summits of Al-Soudah" project will provide luxury hospitality services for two million visitors annually. The master plan will rely on local architectural identity in its designs, featuring six main areas centered in distinguished locations: Tahlal, Sahab, Sabr, Green, Rijal, and the Red Rock. The facilities will vary between luxury hotels and mountain resorts, palaces, and residential units with captivating views and high-end shops, in addition to entertainment, sports, and cultural attractions. By 2033, the project is set to develop 2,700 hotel rooms, 1,336 residential units, and 80,000 square meters of commercial space.
The master plan for the Summits of Al-Soudah consists of three main phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2027. This phase includes the development of 940 hotel rooms, 391 residential units, and 32,000 square meters of commercial space.
"Summits of Al-Soudah" spans a vast area of forests and mountains covering over 627 km², with a built-up area of no more than 1 percent, reflecting the commitment of Al-Soudah Development Company to environmental protection and sustainability standards, maintaining and developing natural resources in the project area comprising Al-Soudah and parts of Rijal Almaa, supporting the efforts of the Saudi Green Initiative.
It is worth noting that Al-Soudah Development is one of the Public Investment Fund's companies, aimed at developing a distinguished mountain tourism destination while preserving natural environments and human cultural heritage in the project area.
