Saudi Minister of Investment Eng. Khalid Al-Falih recently highlighted the significant investment opportunities available in the Al-Baha region, signaling a push to diversify the Kingdom’s economy. During a visit to the region, Al-Falih emphasized Al-Baha’s unique advantages for attracting capital in tourism, agriculture, and other key sectors, aligning with the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The visit included meetings with local business leaders and a tour of the innovative Coffee City project in Mashouqa.
The meetings and site visits took place on Monday, with Al-Falih engaging with businessmen and businesswomen at a gathering hosted by the Al-Baha Chamber of Commerce. The focus of discussions centered on overcoming obstacles to investment and fostering a more supportive environment for both domestic and foreign investors in the region. This initiative is part of a national effort to reduce reliance on oil revenue and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
Unlocking Al-Baha’s Investment Potential
Al-Falih stated that the Al-Baha region is well-positioned to attract investment due to its distinct characteristics and untapped potential. According to the Ministry of Investment, these advantages include a favorable climate for agricultural production, particularly coffee, and growing opportunities in the tourism and entertainment sectors. The Minister stressed the importance of collaboration between the government, the private sector, and regional authorities to capitalize on these strengths.
The Ministry of Investment is committed to streamlining processes and providing necessary facilities to investors, the Minister affirmed. This includes coordinating with relevant entities to address challenges and ensure a smooth experience for those seeking to establish businesses in Al-Baha. The goal is to create a competitive landscape that encourages both local entrepreneurship and foreign direct investment.
Jabal Al-Nour Medical City as a Key Project
One significant project discussed was the Jabal Al-Nour University Medical City. Al-Falih indicated this project is poised for implementation and represents a substantial opportunity for investment in healthcare infrastructure. Details regarding the project’s timeline and specific investment requirements are expected to be released in the coming months.
The development of the medical city aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on improving healthcare access and quality for citizens and residents. It is anticipated to create numerous jobs and stimulate economic activity in the Al-Baha region. The Ministry of Investment will play a crucial role in attracting investors and facilitating the project’s progress.
Coffee City: A Showcase for Agricultural Investment
Al-Falih’s visit to the Coffee City in Mashouqa underscored the government’s commitment to supporting agricultural development and value-added industries. The Coffee City, the first of its kind announced by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in Al-Baha, is a large-scale project dedicated to coffee cultivation, processing, and packaging.
Eng. Mohammed Houta, Executive Director of the Coffee City, explained that the facility spans 1,662,000 square meters and currently cultivates approximately 500,000 coffee trees. The estimated annual production capacity is around 2,500 tons of green coffee, demonstrating the region’s potential to become a major coffee producer.
The Coffee City also includes a state-of-the-art roasting and packaging plant covering 4,400 square meters, capable of processing up to 10,500 tons of roasted coffee annually. This integrated approach aims to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Saudi coffee in both domestic and international markets. The project is expected to boost local employment and contribute to the diversification of the Al-Baha economy.
The development of the Coffee City is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable agriculture and empower local communities. The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is actively seeking to replicate this model in other regions of the Kingdom with suitable agricultural resources. This initiative is also intended to strengthen food security and reduce reliance on imported agricultural products.
The Al-Baha Chamber of Commerce expressed its support for the Ministry of Investment’s efforts and pledged to work closely with the government and private sector to attract further investment to the region. They highlighted the importance of addressing infrastructure gaps and improving the regulatory environment to create a more attractive investment climate.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Investment is expected to announce further details regarding specific investment opportunities in Al-Baha, including incentives and support programs. The success of the Jabal Al-Nour Medical City and the Coffee City projects will likely serve as benchmarks for future developments. Monitoring the progress of these initiatives and the overall investment climate in Al-Baha will be crucial in assessing the effectiveness of Saudi Vision 2030’s diversification goals.
