Hail undergoes rapid development, leveraging rich heritage and unique geography

Hail is no longer relying solely on its rich heritage and exceptional geography to secure its place on the Kingdom’s map; the region is now experiencing a surge in development, investment, and tourism, turning its assets into projects, economic opportunities, and increasingly attractive destinations for visitors and investors.

Ajel reviews recent indicators that paint a picture of a region advancing rapidly, capitalizing on its location, heritage, and natural resources, under the supervision of Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Hail Region and Chairman of the Hail Region Development Authority, who is focused on enhancing development, investment, tourism, and quality of life.

SAR 3.4 billion in investment growth

Figures reveal the scale of investment activity: the value of investment contracts by Hail Municipality exceeded SAR 3.4 billion in 2025, compared to SAR 306 million in 2021.

In 2025, 122 investment opportunities were offered and 94 contracts signed, with 816 ongoing projects and 43 more under implementation.

Opportunities span commercial, tourism, health, education, and agricultural sectors, reflecting a drive to diversify economic activity and expand private sector participation in the region’s development.

Over 2.5 million tourists

Tourism is also making significant strides; the total number of tourists in Hail rose from 987,000 in 2019 to more than 2.517 million in 2025.

Notably, the number of international tourists increased from around 15,000 to 247,000 during the same period, signaling Hail’s growing appeal beyond domestic tourism.

This growth coincides with the development of 14 tourism projects—including hotels, resorts, and mixed-use developments—with investments estimated at SAR 2.4 billion, expected to add nearly 2,000 hotel keys by 2030.

World heritage creates opportunity

Hail boasts a unique competitive advantage: the rock art at Jubbah and Shuwaymis is listed as UNESCO World Heritage, while the Aja and Salma mountains, the Nafud desert, and historical and natural sites provide a strong foundation for cultural, eco, and adventure tourism.

Here, the value of place shifts from mere heritage to an economic product, creating opportunities in hospitality, events, transport, retail, and tourism projects, and giving visitors more reasons to stay and explore.

Quality of life completes the picture

Development extends into cities and towns; Hail Region now features more than 600 parks, gardens, and walking paths, covering nearly five million square meters of green space.

These projects reflect a focus on urban development and improved quality of life, complementing investment and tourism growth, and making development more closely tied to residents’ daily lives rather than being limited to standalone economic projects.

Ajel’s data shows Hail is entering a new phase: a region with history, nature, and strategic location, now working to turn these assets into investment, tourism, and enhanced quality of life.

With the oversight of Governor Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz and support from the national leadership, Hail is increasingly able to capitalize on its advantages and strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia’s economic and tourism landscape.