Qimam and Shem, a strategy to transform the Asir region into a global tourist destination
Under the slogan “Peace and Shem”, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs (May God protect him!) launched a strategy to develop the Aseer region, with the aim of transforming the region into a global tourist destination, attracting more than 10 million local and international visitors by 2030.
The strategy aims to achieve a comprehensive and unprecedented development renaissance for the region by pumping 50 billion riyals through various investments to finance vital projects and develop tourist attractions. The strategy will rely on Aseer’s rich cultural heritage and environment to blend tradition and modernity, and contribute to the region’s social and economic growth.
“Qimam and Shem” was chosen as a motto for the Aseer region development strategy. The word “qimam” refers to the region’s towering peaks and indicates the leadership’s desire to take Aseer to the heights of success in terms of enhancing tourism and economic opportunities by investing in its natural features.
“Shim” refers to a person’s morals, authenticity, cultural potential, and knowledge. Linking this term to strategy stems from the leadership’s belief in the region’s cultural diversity, historical depth and originality that will take it to the pinnacle of prosperity.
The strategy is a joint effort between the Office of Organizations Support and Aseer Development Authority with the ‘Boston Consulting Group, which has led international alliances with several foreign and local companies. The teams working in building the strategy followed the hierarchical construction methodology (from the bottom up), involving citizens and private sector companies in initial discussions to develop public plans through 200+ extensive interviews and 40+ workshops with local experts and stakeholders.
The region’s secretariat and affiliated municipalities also held more than 50 meetings with their employees to study the region’s current situation and propose solutions. The strategy was aligned with government agencies and relevant ministries to achieve the vision. In this context, more than 70 discussion sessions were held.
