19 Saudi Hospitality Projects Approved With SAR 6.7 Billion Investment

Saudi Arabia has approved the first 19 projects under the Hospitality Investment Enablers Program, with the pipeline expected to unlock SAR 6.7 billion in investment across five tourism destinations.

The approved projects are projected to add more than 3,000 hotel rooms and create over 17,000 jobs. Around 40% of the planned rooms will be located in coastal destinations.

The Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Investment said the programme provides incentives intended to reduce operating costs and improve the viability of hospitality projects, while encouraging greater private-sector participation.

The projects are also expected to generate activity beyond accommodation, including food and beverage, retail, entertainment and other visitor services. By 2030, the approved developments are projected to contribute more than SAR 2.4 billion directly to GDP each year and over SAR 5.3 billion to local content through demand for locally sourced goods, services and materials.

The first project is scheduled to open by the end of 2026, with further openings planned through 2029. The additional hospitality capacity comes ahead of major events including Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.