The Saudi wealth fund PIF has launched a company that promotes agritourism and ecotourism in the Kingdom.
Dubbed Dan Company, the firm plans to develop distinct tourism projects near Saudi cities, showcasing appealing natural and cultivated landscapes. The company aims to engage local communities, offering visitors an immersive experience aligned with Saudi regional culture, encompassing arts, crafts, and local cuisines.
Agritourism involves experiences tied to traditional farming, while ecotourism emphasizes nature experiences with minimal environmental impact.
Dan’s initiatives will grant farmers and lodge operators franchises as part of community empowerment. These individuals will receive training to establish their facilities and provide novel experiences for Saudi and international visitors. Moreover, the company will create investment opportunities for the private sector, generating direct and indirect job openings.
Dan’s inaugural project, spanning 1.8 million square meters in the Al-Ahsa region, will comprise an eco-resort, an agri-resort, and an adventure resort. These resorts will cater to distinct tourist niches, offering exceptional experiences tailored to diverse preferences.
The agritourism resort will highlight Al-Ahsa’s renowned produce, such as rice and dates. Visitors can engage in seasonal farming, harvesting, and cooking farm-sourced products, emphasizing a field-to-plate experience.
The eco-resort will prioritize local materials with low carbon emissions, preserving the region’s biodiversity. Meanwhile, the adventure resort will provide eco-friendly activities like horse riding, star-gazing, and hill climbing.
Anticipated to contribute about $1.6 billion (SR6 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP by 2030, Dan aligns with Vision 2030 objectives, diversifying the economy and boosting city contributions to Saudi GDP.
“The company will operate novel business models that integrate sustainability and embrace nature, involving the private sector and local farmers in agritourism and ecotourism,” said Khalid Johar, co-head of the Local Real Estate Portfolio Department at PIF. “The establishment of Dan will also contribute to creating new job opportunities in local communities and promoting unique immersive experiences that engage and entertain visitors.”
PIF’s investment portfolio includes projects like Soudah Development, Boutique Group’s transformation of historical palaces into luxury hotels, and Saudi Downtown Company’s urban centre developments across Saudi Arabia, all aimed at enhancing Saudi tourism and city economies.
