Aseer’s First Appearance At Saudi Tourism Forum 2025 Highlights Its Unique Contributions To Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Industry

Friday, January 17, 2025

Discover Aseer debuted at Saudi Tourism Forum 2025, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, positioning itself as a key player in Saudi tourism.

For the first time, Discover Aseer participated in the Saudi Tourism Forum (STF), marking a significant milestone in promoting the region’s cultural and natural offerings. This debut occurred during the third edition of STF, held in Riyadh from January 7 to 9, 2025. The event provided a global platform for Aseer to establish itself as a distinctive and vital contributor to Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning tourism industry.

As a main sponsor of the event, Discover Aseer showcased its vibrant cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The participation aligned with the Aseer Development Authority’s (ASDA) overarching mission to position the region as a must-visit destination under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. With ambitious plans to attract 9.1 million visitors annually and generate SAR26 billion for the tourism GDP by 2030, Aseer is poised to become a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s tourism strategy.

A Platform to Build Partnerships

Discover Aseer’s presence at STF was more than a showcase—it was an opportunity to forge critical connections with local and international stakeholders. These partnerships aim to bolster Aseer’s economic development and advance its sustainable tourism objectives. Through collaboration with global and regional experts, Discover Aseer is committed to building an inclusive and thriving tourism ecosystem.

The event also spotlighted empowering local stakeholders, such as hospitality providers, destination management companies, and heritage village owners. By elevating these groups, ASDA seeks to enrich the tourism landscape while preserving the unique identity and traditions of Aseer.

Showcasing Aseer’s Unique Offerings

Discover Aseer’s pavilion at the Saudi Tourism Forum was a vibrant hub of cultural celebration and creative expression. Visitors were captivated by interactive displays that highlighted the region’s traditions, including:

1. Aseer’s Iconic Flower Crowns
   The intricately designed flower crowns, symbolizing the region’s natural beauty, attracted widespread attention. These floral adornments are a unique cultural marker of Aseer and serve as a reminder of the region’s deep-rooted traditions.
2. Aseeri Qatt Art
   This traditional art form, recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, was a key feature of the pavilion. Live demonstrations and workshops allowed visitors to experience the vibrancy and skill of Aseeri Qatt Art firsthand.
3. Gastronomy Excellence
   Named the World Region of Gastronomy 2024 by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism, Aseer presented its celebrated culinary traditions. Attendees sampled authentic dishes that reflect the region’s diverse and rich flavors, gaining a deeper appreciation for its gastronomic heritage.

Honoring Aseer’s Heritage and Sustainability

Aseer’s commitment to preserving its cultural and ecological heritage was a central theme of its STF debut. The region is home to over 4,000 historic villages, each telling a unique story of its past. A standout achievement celebrated during the event was the inclusion of Abo Noghta Castles in Tabab on the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) list of the Best Tourism Villages of 2024. This recognition underscores Aseer’s dedication to preserving its historic sites while fostering sustainable tourism practices.

The region’s ecological diversity was another highlight. Nestled in the scenic highlands of southwestern Saudi Arabia, Aseer boasts a rich biodiversity that contributes to its appeal as an eco-tourism destination. Efforts to preserve these natural treasures align with the Kingdom’s broader environmental and sustainability goals under Vision 2030.

Driving Saudi Tourism Forward

Discover Aseer’s participation in STF represents a step forward in realizing Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions. As the Kingdom aims to diversify its economy and position itself as a global tourism hub, regions like Aseer are vital to achieving this transformation.

The forum also served as a platform for discussing how regional tourism can drive national economic growth. Discover Aseer emphasized the importance of developing infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, and empowering local communities to ensure a sustainable and inclusive tourism model.

A Bright Future for Aseer

Looking ahead, Discover Aseer’s strategy is focused on creating a holistic and memorable visitor experience. From promoting its cultural and culinary heritage to fostering collaborations that drive sustainable development, the region is on track to become one of Saudi Arabia’s most sought-after destinations.

As Aseer continues to grow and innovate within the tourism sector, initiatives like its participation in STF reinforce its position as a key player in shaping the future of Saudi tourism. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Aseer is not just a destination—it’s an experience that embodies the spirit and vision of a modern Saudi Arabia.