Al-Ahsa, a region in Saudi Arabia, experienced a remarkable 500% increase in tourism, welcoming over 3.2 million visitors in 2024 compared to 2019, as announced by Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb at the Al-Ahsa Forum 2025. Tourist expenditures exceeded SR3.3 billion ($897 million) last year, marking a 400% rise since 2019.
This surge aligns with the Ministry of Tourism’s initiatives to attract investment and develop local talent, enhancing Al-Ahsa’s appeal as a premier destination. The hospitality sector has seen significant growth, with licensed tourism facilities increasing by 52% from 2023 and available rooms reaching 2,700 by the end of 2024.
The Tourism Development Fund has financed several key projects in the region, including the five-star Hilton Al-Ahsa, Radisson Blu, and Hilton Garden Inn hotels. Additionally, the ministry has implemented various initiatives and incentives, resulting in projects worth SR3 billion benefiting the governorate.
From 2023 to the present, over 5,300 training opportunities have been provided to local residents, surpassing 50% of the ministry’s target for the area. This effort underscores a commitment to developing national talent and improving the region’s tourism infrastructure.
In November, during discussions with investors and entrepreneurs, Al-Khateeb highlighted the Kingdom’s allocation of more than SR3.5 billion for 17 tourism projects in Al-Ahsa. These developments aim to enhance the region’s infrastructure and add over 1,800 hotel rooms, leveraging Al-Ahsa’s natural and cultural attractions to draw both domestic and international tourists.
The Al-Ahsa Forum, established in 2003 and organized biennially by the Al-Ahsa Chamber with ARAMCO as a strategic partner, serves as a platform to discuss economic and social issues pertinent to the governorate. The 2025 forum focused on investment opportunities and challenges, aiming to align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives and position Al-Ahsa as a leading investment destination.
Al-Ahsa’s strategic location, rich cultural heritage, and rapid urban development contribute to its growing appeal. The region’s proximity to other Gulf Cooperation Council countries, robust connectivity via air, rail, and road, and numerous historical sites, including the UNESCO-recognized Al-Ahsa Oasis, make it an attractive destination for tourists and investors alike.
The recent expansion of Al-Ahsa International Airport, which doubled its capacity to accommodate one million passengers annually, further supports the region’s tourism growth. The airport now features two international halls and ten gates for domestic and international travel, enhancing accessibility for visitors.
In summary, Al-Ahsa’s impressive tourism growth reflects successful strategic initiatives, substantial investments, and a commitment to developing local talent, solidifying its status as a premier destination in Saudi Arabia.
