Al-Baha advances development with over US$327m in projects, expanding investment, agriculture and tourism

SAUDI ARABIA – Al-Baha continues to record steady gains as municipal projects, farm activity and tourism combine to raise living standards and draw investors to the southern Saudi region.

Municipal leaders say the region has rolled out a wide set of public works over the past five years, with clear links to jobs, services and private sector interest.

Dr. Ali Al-Sawat, secretary of the Al-Baha Region, said the municipality completed 125 projects during this period at a total value exceeding SR1.23 billion [US$328M]. “The municipality has implemented 125 projects over the past five years at a total value exceeding SR1.23 billion [USD 332.1M],” he said.

He added that the works covered road paving, sidewalks, lighting, flood control, municipal facilities, urban development and consultancy services. According to Al-Sawat, these efforts helped open 2,237 investment opportunities in the same period.

“The initiatives have contributed to creating an attractive investment environment,” he said, noting their role in supporting economic growth and improving daily life for residents.

Agriculture rooted in landscape

Agriculture remains a key strength for Al-Baha, supported by its climate and varied terrain. Fahd Al-Zahrani, director general of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the region, said local conditions allow farmers to maintain steady output across several crops.

“The region’s agricultural strength stems from its diverse climate and varied topography,” Al-Zahrani said. He noted that Al-Baha’s agricultural terraces produce more than 8,000 tons of pomegranates each year and about 1,250 tons of honey. The terraces, which shape much of the local landscape, also play a role in soil care and water use.

These assets have gained wider attention after the UN Environment Program announced that Saudi Arabia will host the 2024 World Environment Day, with agricultural terraces in the southern region highlighted in related materials.

History and tourism links

Beyond farming and infrastructure, Al-Baha draws on a long human history that supports tourism. Researcher Ahmed Qashash said the region served as a key station along caravan and pilgrimage routes. “The region historically served as a key station along caravan and pilgrimage routes,” he said.

Qashash pointed to traditional irrigation systems, stone villages, archaeological sites and early Islamic inscriptions as central to Al-Baha’s identity. These features continue to attract visitors interested in culture and heritage, while adding value to local tourism plans.

Officials say the mix of public investment, farm output and cultural assets places Al-Baha on a stable path. With more than US$327m already spent on core projects and new investment openings emerging, the region aims to keep growth tied to services, land and community needs.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.