Aseer Investment Forum 2: A New Chapter in Regional Investment and MCG’s Business Diplomacy in Action
MCG at Aseer Investment Forum 2📍 May 26–27, 2025 | Royal Guest Palace & King Khalid University, Abha
We were deeply honoured to be seated alongside H.R.H. Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor of the Aseer Region and Chairman of the Aseer Development Authority, at the official Gala Dinner of the Aseer Investment Forum 2 in Abha, Saudi Arabia
During the evening, we had the privilege of engaging in conversation with His Royal Highness, who warmly expressed appreciation for the growing friendship between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Thailand.
Under the patronage of HRH Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Aseer Region and Chairman of the Aseer Development Authority (ASDA), the Second Aseer Investment Forum was held on 27–28 May 2025 at King Khalid University, Abha. Themed “Aseer is Prospering… Invest Now,” the event showcased the region’s transformation into one of Saudi Arabia’s most compelling investment destinations.
Thank you for having us!
Strong Participation, Strategic Vision
With over 1,500 participants, the forum convened ministers, global investors, public institutions, and private sector leaders. It reflected the alignment of Aseer’s ambitions with the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 goals, focused on regional equity, economic diversification, and sustainable development.
Key government figures in attendance included:
HE Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism
HE Abdullah Al-Swaha, Minister of Communications and IT
HE Dr Majid Al-Qasabi, Minister of Commerce
HE Mohammed Al-Quwaiz, Chairman of the Capital Market Authority
HE Abdullah Al-Atiyah, Minister of Municipal Affairs of the State of Qatar
Investment Highlights
Prince Turki bin Talal announced that more than SAR 5 billion in investments are already being implemented, with a further SAR 4 billion to be formalised. Sultan Al-Shahri, Chief of Investment at ASDA, confirmed that the region is managing 79 investment projects worth over SAR 29 billion.
49 projects (SAR 25.6 billion) are in the attraction phase
30 initiatives (SAR 3.8 billion) are already confirmed
In addition, the launch of Qimam Al-Sarrah, a new investment arm, will support land development and regulatory streamlining for investors.
Sector Focus: Tourism, Infrastructure, and the Creative Economy
The forum featured five high-level sessions and several specialised workshops addressing:
Tourism investment and financing
Infrastructure readiness and airport expansion
Creative industries and digital services
SME and regulatory empowerment
Projects like ARDARA’s Al Wadi residential and tourism community, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), exemplify the region’s mixed-use development vision. Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria brand will also debut in the region, alongside new MoUs with Sumou Holding and SEDCO Capital.
Abha on the Global Stage
The bid for Abha to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup was a focal point of discussion. With the planned expansion of King Khalid University Stadium, Abha is preparing for a global audience. Officials also highlighted the airport’s expansion and eco-tourism potential.
Organisers and Institutional Strength
Aseer Development Authority (ASDA): Leads the region’s strategic planning and investment strategy.
Aseer Investment Company: Supports project development and investor facilitation.
Qimam Al-Sarrah: New entity announced to lead land and real estate development coordination.
Final Insight
The Aseer Investment Forum 2 was more than a showcase—it was a declaration. The region is no longer peripheral. It is essential to the Kingdom’s strategic outlook. With public–private partnerships, institutional readiness, and high-impact tourism and infrastructure projects underway, Aseer stands as a model of regional development in the Vision 2030 era.
As Prince Turki stated, “Aseer is an economic powerhouse and a fundamental enabler for the private sector.” The forum reinforced that message—resoundingly, clearly, and with resolve.