Al-Baha advances urban development with sustainable projects

Al-Baha region is pressing ahead with sustainable urban development projects, leveraging its natural assets and rich cultural heritage to enhance quality of life and position itself as an attractive destination for residents, visitors, and investors. These efforts coincide with World Cities Day on October 31.

The initiatives are supported by the Saudi leadership, with close oversight from Al-Baha Governor Prince Hussam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz and Deputy Governor Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki.

The Al-Baha Municipality recently secured first place among Gulf states in the GCC Municipal Work Award, thanks to its "Green Al-Baha" initiative, which focuses on sustainable tree planting, improving the urban landscape, and upgrading municipal facilities and services.

Al-Baha city also received international recognition from the World Federation of the Disabled as a city friendly to people with physical disabilities, in acknowledgment of its efforts to make facilities, pathways, and services accessible to all segments of society.

Al-Baha Mayor Ali bin Mohammed Al-Sawat said these achievements are a result of ongoing support for the municipal sector from the leadership, the governor and his deputy, and Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Majid bin Abdullah Al-Hogail. This backing has helped boost municipal performance, enhance the urban environment, and enable developmental and investment projects.

Al-Sawat emphasized that the municipality is working in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to create a sustainable urban environment that prioritizes people, improves quality of life, and increases the region’s appeal for investment and tourism. He noted that the accomplishments reflect progress in urban planning and comprehensive service development.

The municipal and tourism sectors in Al-Baha are witnessing growth in development and investment, capitalizing on the region’s mountainous landscape, mild climate, and environmental and cultural diversity. The Qamra Mountain Resort, developed by Asfar, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, is among the projects enhancing tourism offerings by providing a mountain hospitality experience rooted in the region’s identity.

Raghadan Tourist Resort also stands out as a key development, positioning Al-Baha as a year-round tourist destination. It leverages the features of Raghadan Park and its location overlooking the Sarawat Mountains, offering accommodation, entertainment, and family experiences.

These projects complement the municipality’s efforts and those of related entities to develop parks, gardens, walkways, and service facilities, expand green spaces, improve accessibility, highlight the region’s architectural identity, create investment opportunities, and support the private sector. Together, these initiatives promote local development, enhance quality of life, and preserve natural resources.