In a strategic step aimed at promoting sustainable development and diversifying the economic base, the branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the Makkah region established a program entitled “Investment Opportunities and Regulatory Enablers in the System’s Sectors,” through which it revealed a package of quality investment opportunities aimed at attracting capital and activating the role of the private sector in achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
During the program, which was organized in cooperation with the Makkah Region Development Authority, a total of 35 investment opportunities were reviewed, distributed across the agriculture and environment sectors, reflecting the natural richness and geographical diversity of the region.
General context: In line with Saudi Vision 2030
This initiative is central to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s national objectives, with Vision 2030 serving as the primary driver of its economic and social transformation. Vision 2030 aims to reduce reliance on oil as the main source of income by developing new and promising economic sectors such as tourism, sustainable agriculture, and entertainment. Offering these opportunities in the Makkah region not only serves economic goals but also contributes to achieving the objectives of the “Saudi Green” and “Green Middle East” initiatives, which aim to combat climate change, develop vegetation cover, and improve quality of life.
Details of investment opportunities and their geographical distribution
The investment package included 17 opportunities in the agricultural and natural resources sectors, distributed across several vital governorates such as Taif, Al-Lith, Al-Jumum, Khulais, and Al-Kamil. These governorates possess unique agricultural advantages; Taif is renowned for its high-quality agricultural products, such as Taif roses and seasonal fruits, while the other governorates have promising potential in protected agriculture, livestock breeding, and beekeeping.
In addition, 18 investment opportunities in the environmental sector were presented, focusing primarily on vegetation development, combating desertification, and developing national parks. Among the most prominent projects are the development of Taif National Park and Jabal Al Qamar Park in Khulais Governorate. These projects aim to create attractive ecotourism destinations for residents and visitors while preserving ecological balance and protecting natural resources.
Importance and expected impact
These projects are expected to have a multifaceted positive impact. Locally, they will contribute to creating new job opportunities for residents, stimulating economic activity in the targeted governorates, and providing local agricultural products that support food security. Nationally, they will support efforts to diversify the national economy and enhance the Kingdom's position as a destination for ecotourism and sustainable tourism.
The program also addressed the financing options and support mechanisms available to investors through the Agricultural Development Fund and other supporting entities, which sends a reassuring message to investors and confirms the government’s seriousness in enabling the private sector to be a key partner in the comprehensive development process witnessed by the Makkah region and the Kingdom as a whole.
