Ajdan Island Project: Saudi Arabia’s New Tourism Destination in Al-Khobar Nears Development

On Sunday, December 15, 2025, a historic deal was inked to launch an $80 million Ajdan Island tourist project in Al-Khobar Corniche. The deal, which took place through a collaborative effort among a Saudi Arabia Tourism Development Fund, Eastern Region’s Municipality, and Ajdan Real Estate Development Company, symbolizes a major step forward towards achieving a vision to support developing tourism within Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia’s Eastern region is soon to experience a new dawn in developing a tourist industry with a project valued at over SAR 300 million with a total cost of approximately $80 million in a bid to rename Al-Khobar Water Tower to a tourist site.

Project Overview: A Vision for Al-Khobar’s Transformation

The project will develop the Al-Khobar Water Tower area into a comprehensive and integrated tourist destination, complete with state-of-the-art facilities and services that will make it a major draw for both local and international visitors. The plan includes world-class restaurants, seafront cafés, entertainment spaces, and a fully integrated commercial zone. A unique feature of the development will be a panoramic restaurant that will offer stunning views of the Al-Khobar area, making it an iconic landmark on the Corniche.

This development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of diversifying the economy, particularly by expanding the tourism sector and creating a robust infrastructure for both domestic and international tourism. The development will not only revamp the Al-Khobar Corniche but also place Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region on the global tourism map as a destination that combines modern luxury with authentic cultural experiences.

Government Support and Vision 2030: Fueling Growth in Saudi Tourism

The signing ceremony, which took place in Dammam, was sponsored by Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, the Governor of the Eastern Region. During the ceremony, the Governor emphasized the critical importance of the tourism sector in driving the Kingdom’s economic growth and diversifying sources of income. The support of Saudi Arabia’s leadership, including Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, has been instrumental in transforming the country’s tourism vision into reality.

Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Tourism Development Fund, Ahmed Al-Khateeb, also attended the signing. He highlighted that the Ajdan Island project would further enhance the Kingdom’s efforts to position itself as a global tourism hub. It is also a key component of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to increase tourism investments and attract international travelers, creating jobs and boosting the national economy.

Economic Impact: Tourism as a Key Growth Engine

The Ajdan Island development is expected to have a transformative effect on both the local economy and the broader Saudi tourism industry. With a total value exceeding SAR 300 million, this initiative will contribute significantly to the region’s economic growth by fostering job creation, attracting tourists, and generating investment in local businesses. The tourism sector in Saudi Arabia has already seen considerable growth, and the Ajdan Island project is a critical piece of this expansion. As part of the Tourism Development Fund’s growing portfolio, which now surpasses SAR 12.7 billion, the project represents a major investment in the country’s tourism infrastructure.

The project will create a variety of job opportunities, both directly in the tourism and hospitality sectors and indirectly through the wider economic activities it generates. The addition of high-end restaurants, cafés, and entertainment facilities will require skilled labor, creating thousands of job opportunities for locals. Additionally, the development will boost tourism-related services such as transportation, retail, and local tour operations, offering new employment prospects for the region’s residents.

Ajdan Island: A New Tourist Destination in Saudi Arabia

The development of Ajdan Island promises to be a key addition to Al-Khobar’s already popular tourist destinations. The Corniche, a scenic waterfront area, has long been a favorite among residents and visitors alike, but the addition of world-class facilities will undoubtedly elevate it to a new level. The integration of various attractions, such as the panoramic restaurant and seafront cafés, will offer a diverse range of experiences for tourists, from dining and shopping to leisure activities and entertainment.

The project’s focus on creating a well-rounded tourism experience will appeal to a broad spectrum of travelers, including those seeking luxury, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities. The Al-Khobar Water Tower area’s transformation will also create a new focal point for tourism in the Eastern Region, offering both locals and tourists a modern space that reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism ambitions.

Cultural and Tourism Synergy: A Unique Blend of Modernity and Tradition

Ajdan Island will not just cater to luxury tourists but will also celebrate Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage, blending modern development with traditional elements. The design of the project will incorporate aspects of the region’s history and culture, offering visitors an authentic experience that goes beyond just shopping and dining. This approach aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader tourism strategy of preserving cultural traditions while embracing modernity to create diverse travel experiences.

The tourism development is expected to boost Al-Khobar’s position as one of the leading tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia. The city has already been known for its coastal beauty, but with the addition of this integrated, world-class tourism hub, it will become an even more appealing option for both international and domestic tourists.

Collaboration and Future Prospects: A Model for Regional Development

The successful signing of this agreement underscores the importance of cooperation between public and private sectors in realizing Saudi Arabia’s ambitious tourism goals. Eastern Region Municipality’s Mayor, Fahad Al-Jubeir, also expressed his enthusiasm for the project’s potential impact, noting that it would play a significant role in the development of tourism infrastructure and services in the region.

Al-Jubeir stressed the importance of the tourism sector in regional development, noting that projects like Ajdan Island will enhance the local economy, improve service quality, and create more job opportunities for the residents of the Eastern Region. The collaboration between the Eastern Region Municipality, Ajdan Real Estate Development Company, and the Tourism Development Fund is a model for the kinds of public-private partnerships that will be crucial in expanding Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector.

Transforming Al-Khobar into a Global Tourism Destination

The Ajdan Island tourism investment project, with a budget of $80 million, is an important step towards making Saudi Arabia a tourist hub in the global arena. The project aims to transform the Water Tower area in Al-Khobar into a tourist hub and will prove to be a major factor in impacting the regional economy and development in general.

The Ajdan Island project is one such project that receives immense government support and is a shining example of an initiative in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy. Apart from enriching Saudi tourist life, this project will also have a positive impact on local communities by providing jobs. As this project continues to gain momentum, it will go on to become an important part of a future Saudi Arabia where it will become one of the major tourist destinations in the world.

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South Batinah Sees Surge in Tourism Investment Projects: Eco-Lodges and Heritage Lodges Lead the Growth in Oman

The tourism industry in South Batinah has expanded dramatically, with a 48.7% increase in the number of licences issued for tourism investment projects between January and October 2025. 174 licences were granted during this period, up from 117 in 2024. This surge demonstrates South Batinah’s growing importance as a tourism hub in Oman.

Diverse Tourism Investments: A Wide Array of Projects

The newly issued licences encompass a broad spectrum of tourism activities. These include eco-lodges, guesthouses, tour operators, travel agencies, hotels, tourist transport services, rest houses, and heritage lodges. South Batinah is proving itself a diverse destination, catering to a variety of tourist preferences, from heritage and eco-tourism to adventure travel.

Barka Leads with Majority of Licensed Projects

Barka has emerged as the leader in tourism investments within the region. The town accounted for 81% of the total licences issued, with 141 projects registered. Musannah ranked second, with 18 projects, representing 10.3% of the overall total. Other areas, including Nakhal, Rustaq, Al Awabi, and Wadi al Maawil, contributed smaller numbers of licences, ranging from one to six per area.

This distribution of tourism projects across South Batinah reflects the growing interest in diversifying tourism offerings in different regions, each with its unique attributes, such as Barka’s proximity to beaches and heritage sites and Musannah’s mountainous terrain.

Guesthouses and Eco-Lodges Top the List of Investments

Guesthouses have been the most sought-after tourism investment, with 119 licences issued, representing 68.3% of the total. This reflects a trend towards smaller, more intimate accommodation options that cater to tourists seeking a personalized experience. Tour operators and travel agencies followed with 26 and 14 licences, respectively, while eco-lodges garnered 11 licences. Eco-tourism is an integral part of the region’s development strategy, as it offers sustainable accommodation options and unique nature-based experiences.

The increasing number of eco-lodges aligns with a broader strategy launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism to diversify Oman’s tourism offerings and provide eco-friendly accommodation. South Batinah is currently home to 48 eco-lodges, with 33 located in Barka, 10 in Musannah, two each in Rustaq and Nakhal, and one in Wadi al Maawil.

Eco-Lodges: A Nature-Based Hospitality Experience

Eco-lodges are a key focus of South Batinah’s tourism strategy. These lodges provide guests with a tranquil, nature-immersive experience, often nestled within lush green oases and diverse landscapes. Their popularity stems from the desire for sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation options that allow guests to enjoy the region’s natural beauty while minimizing their environmental impact.

In addition to their environmental benefits, eco-lodges also cater to families and large groups, offering spacious accommodations that can comfortably host multiple guests. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has been actively supporting the development of these eco-lodges by simplifying licensing procedures and streamlining the application process. Local heritage and tourism departments in each governorate are now authorized to review applications directly once all the necessary requirements and approvals are in place.

Streamlining Licensing Procedures to Boost Tourism

To further encourage tourism investment, the government has taken significant steps to expedite the licensing process. This includes granting more local autonomy to heritage and tourism departments in each governorate, enabling them to directly review and approve eco-lodge applications. The aim is to make the process more efficient and accessible for potential investors, particularly those looking to contribute to the growing demand for ecotourism in Oman.

Winter Tourism Initiatives: Promoting Domestic and International Travel

The winter season is a key time for tourism in South Batinah, and the region is gearing up to capitalize on the influx of both domestic and international visitors. To attract tourists, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has rolled out a series of promotional programmes and activities throughout the governorate. These initiatives are designed to showcase South Batinah’s cultural and natural offerings and position the region as a top destination for winter travel.

One notable event, the “Nostalgia for the Past” heritage festival, is being organized in partnership with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Musannah. This event highlights the region’s rich cultural heritage and is aimed at both local students and visiting tourists. The festival will offer a variety of activities, including traditional performances, arts, and exhibitions, giving visitors a deeper understanding of Oman’s history and cultural traditions.

Adventure Tourism: A Growing Focus in South Batinah

Adventure tourism has also seen a surge in interest, with events such as Oman’s Cliff promoting the region’s mountain trails and rugged landscapes. Held at the end of November, the Oman’s Cliff event was designed to attract adventure enthusiasts and showcase the challenging mountain trails in the village of Hadash. This event is expected to boost the visibility of South Batinah as a destination for outdoor and adventure activities, complementing its ecotourism and heritage offerings.

By working with specialized operators, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism is promoting South Batinah as a destination for both seasoned adventure travelers and newcomers seeking to explore the region’s natural beauty. With its diverse range of tourism offerings, from eco-lodges to adventure activities, South Batinah is positioning itself as an all-encompassing destination for a wide range of traveller interests.

Future Prospects for Tourism in South Batinah

The tourism outlook in South Batinah is promising, with both investment and visitor numbers expected to increase. As the region expands its tourism offerings, it is poised to become a major player in Oman’s tourism industry. The government’s proactive approach to licensing, promoting ecotourism, and hosting events that attract both domestic and international visitors bodes well for the future.

South Batinah is poised to become one of Oman’s top destinations as it capitalises on its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure tourism potential. As more tourism investment projects are completed, the region will continue to attract new visitors, providing opportunities for both local businesses and international investors.

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Egypt’s Minister of Environment Invites Investment in Nature Reserves for Ecotourism, Here’s All You Need to Know

On the 13th of December 2025, Egypt’s Minister of Local Development, Dr. Manal Awad, who is acting as the Minister of Environment, pledged her commitment to collaborating with the private sector in developing ecotourism initiatives in the different nature reserves of Egypt. This is a major breakthrough in Egypt’s journey toward harnessing development alongside conservation. The government has identified the rising need for ecotourism, locally as well as internationally, making it a potential area for development.

Promoting Ecotourism: A Vital Component of Egypt’s Green Economy

The growing interest in ecotourism, a form of sustainable tourism that focuses on preserving the environment while providing a meaningful travel experience, is not only beneficial for Egypt’s natural heritage but also for its economy. Dr. Awad emphasized that the government sees environmental investment as an essential component in the development of Egypt’s green economy. By incorporating ecotourism projects, the country can tap into both local and global demand for nature-based tourism experiences while promoting sustainable practices.

One of the central aspects of this development is the integration of economic growth with nature conservation. Dr. Awad explained that the Ministry seeks to implement ecotourism projects that do not just promote economic benefits but also respect the unique environmental features of each nature reserve. This includes using eco-friendly materials and designs that are in harmony with the surroundings, ensuring that these initiatives do not negatively affect the ecosystems they aim to protect.

Environmental Standards: Ensuring Sustainable Development

A key principle of the new approach is that any investment within nature reserves must adhere to strict environmental standards. Dr. Awad made it clear that Egypt will not compromise on its environmental responsibilities, particularly when it comes to protecting ecosystems and natural resources. As part of this effort, she highlighted the importance of complying with regulations that protect nature reserves from any harmful impacts that may arise from tourism and development activities.

To ensure that projects align with environmental goals, the Ministry has set clear guidelines. Any investor wishing to contribute to ecotourism in Egypt’s nature reserves must submit comprehensive technical and environmental studies. These include environmental impact assessments and sustainable management plans, which will outline how the proposed projects will be managed and the measures in place to mitigate potential harm to the environment.

These proposals will undergo rigorous review by experts in nature conservation and technical bodies within the Ministry, ensuring that they meet all necessary criteria before approval is granted. This process is designed to protect Egypt’s nature reserves, ensuring that future developments benefit both the economy and the environment.

Nature Reserves: Egypt’s Unique Ecotourism Assets

Egypt is home to several stunning nature reserves that boast unique environmental features, making them prime candidates for ecotourism projects. These protected areas, such as Wadi El Rayan, Ras Mohammed, and the Red Sea’s coral reefs, are known for their breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. They are becoming increasingly popular with tourists who seek experiences that allow them to connect with nature while supporting conservation efforts.

The country’s nature reserves have the potential to position Egypt as a global ecotourism hub, attracting tourists who prioritize sustainability and the protection of natural resources. By leveraging the private sector’s involvement, Egypt can enhance the infrastructure of these reserves, offering visitors a high-quality experience while ensuring the long-term preservation of their natural beauty.

Collaborative Efforts: Government and Private Sector Working Together

Dr. Awad emphasized that the partnership between the government and private investors is crucial to the success of Egypt’s ecotourism sector. The Ministry of Environment is actively working with the private sector to develop environmental infrastructure within the country’s nature reserves, improve visitor services, and establish a modern system for managing tourism activities.

This collaboration aims to strike a balance between development and conservation, allowing the tourism industry to flourish while minimizing the environmental impact. The Ministry is also exploring opportunities to implement new systems that will manage the increasing number of visitors to these natural sites, ensuring that they do not overburden the ecosystem.

In addition to supporting private investments in ecotourism, the Ministry is focused on improving the quality of tourism services offered in nature reserves. This includes providing better accommodations, organizing guided eco-tours, and enhancing infrastructure to support sustainable travel, such as eco-friendly transportation and waste management systems.

The Impact on Egypt’s Tourism Industry

The rise of ecotourism presents a unique opportunity for Egypt to diversify its tourism offerings. Traditionally known for its historical landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt is positioning itself as an attractive destination for nature-based travel. The country’s nature reserves, with their pristine landscapes, wildlife, and adventure opportunities, are expected to draw a growing number of tourists who are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and scuba diving.

As global interest in sustainable travel continues to grow, Egypt’s ability to offer ecotourism experiences could significantly enhance its competitive edge in the international tourism market. The development of eco-friendly tourism projects in nature reserves will help Egypt tap into this lucrative market while preserving its environmental heritage.

A Promising Future for Ecotourism in Egypt

While this country is continuously improving in terms of environmental infrastructure and offering a variety of innovative and environmentally friendly tourism activities, Egypt will also become an excellent destination for travelers who seek nature exploration, sustainable activities, and contribution to the preservation of the planet’s natural resources.

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