MAKKAH: As Saudi Arabia pushes rural tourism under its Vision 2030 targets, a cluster of projects in Asir is drawing on regional identity to revive historic villages, engage local communities, and preserve cultural heritage.
Mohammed Ayedh Qarash, founder of the Bait Abi Ali rural tourism project, told Arab News the venture began with a simple idea carrying a much larger message: bringing life back to villages abandoned decades ago and turning them into destinations reflecting the authenticity of rural life.
“Bilad Asir does not sell a place to stay,” Qarash said. “It offers a complete experience in which the visitor lives a genuine village life.”
The project features Bait Abi Ali, a bed-and-breakfast inside a 60-year-old heritage house; Maqyal Al-Jabal, a restaurant serving traditional Asiri dishes; and Terra Asir, which runs a wide range of activities.
Visitors can ride mountain quad bikes and desert buggies, go horseback riding or golfing, hike, or practice yoga. Qarash said these experiences offer an escape from city noise in favor of nature, quiet, and recuperation.
