Hail Region Seals SR8.5 Billion Investment Deals to Spur Growth
Saudi Arabia's Hail region has secured investment agreements worth SR8.5 billion ($2.27 billion) during its flagship investment forum, advancing the Kingdom's push to unlock regional growth and attract private capital. Spanning agriculture, mining, tourism, and logistics, these agreements form part of a broader SR50 billion portfolio of opportunities unveiled at the event.
Vision 2030 Fuels Regional Diversification
Saudi Arabia now prioritizes untapped potential in smaller regions, luring investors to diversify beyond urban hubs, which aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals for a resilient, inclusive economy.
The Emir of Hail witnessed the launch of SR8.5 billion in partnerships between government agencies and investors to boost economic growth. Governor Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad emphasized Hail's strategic advantages, including its connectivity across five regions, fertile land, and infrastructure development.
Organized under the theme 'Be Part of the Promising Future,' the forum attracted leaders like Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih and Deputy Environment Minister Mansour Al-Mushaiti. Over 125 investment opportunities, including 14 strategic projects worth SR34.2 billion, aim to empower local businesses.
Agricultural Investments Take Center Stage
Al-Mushaiti hailed Hail as a prime agricultural hub, citing SR7 billion in funding from the Agricultural Development Fund. The region now contributes over 10% of Saudi Arabia's agricultural GDP. Notably, Hail launched the Middle East's largest trout salmon project, targeting a 50% import reduction and SR5 billion in sales within a decade. Furthermore, new red meat investments will raise self-sufficiency to 61%, while a poultry project expanded to SR11 billion with a recent SR4.5 billion injection. The Saudi Reef program has allocated SR800 million to support local farmers, alongside SR1.2 billion in water and environmental projects under the Saudi Green Initiative.
Al-Falih highlighted Hail's SR1.44 billion in foreign investment, with 177 licenses issued to global firms. Over 100 opportunities worth SR50 billion are now on the 'Invest Saudi' platform. A new MoU between the Investment Ministry and Hail Region Development Authority will streamline sustainable growth efforts.
The forum also featured nine panel sessions covering 42 investment themes, focusing on tourism, quality of life, agriculture, logistics, energy, and education.
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