With the announcement of its fifth Saudi Arabian entertainment destination, SEVEN, a division of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has reached a major milestone, as it is the first of its kind in the Aseer region.
Substantial Investment and Location
Located adjacent to Abha International Airport and conveniently situated between Abha and Khamis Mushait, the entertainment attraction has a large investment of over SAR1.3 billion, or about $347 million. The development has a built-up area of more than 79,000 square meters, spread out over 64,000 square meters.
Architectural Excellence
Gensler, a globally renowned architecture, design, and planning firm, has meticulously crafted the architectural design. Drawing inspiration from the region's ancient stone buildings, the design aligns seamlessly with The Urban Code of Aseer Region, emphasizing excellence in urban planning, design, landscape, and architecture while preserving the region's identity.
SEVEN's Abha Project and Vision 2030
Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, Chairman of the Aseer Development Authority (ASDA), highlighted the unprecedented renaissance in the Aseer region across various sectors. SEVEN's entertainment destination in Abha is deemed a pivotal project supporting the region's aspiration to become a year-round global destination.
Economic impact and job creation
SEVEN's Chairman, Abdullah AlDawood, emphasized the project's significance in line with Vision 2030. By 2030, the project is expected to contribute over SAR 4 billion to the GDP and attract over 5 million visitors. The initiative is set to create hundreds of direct and indirect job opportunities, aligning with the broader economic goals of the Kingdom.
Construction and Partnerships
Modern Building Leaders (MBL) have been entrusted with the construction work, emphasizing a commitment to high standards, technology utilization, and safety measures. SEVEN has secured partnerships with renowned companies, including Cundall, Theme 3, Top Notch, Holofice, Thinkwell, and Sea Quest, to design the diverse entertainment attractions in Abha.
Attractions and unique experiences
Eight distinct attractions will comprise SEVEN Abha, including a family entertainment center, an immersive indoor golf adventure area, a PLAY-DOH themed entertainment center licensed by Hasbro, an entertainment attraction with a jungle theme called Discovery Adventures (a joint venture between Warner Bros. Discovery and Discovery Global Themed Entertainment), and a multipurpose venue for live entertainment events.
Engaging Activities and Facilities
Visitors can enjoy activities such as indoor e-karting on multi-level tracks, futuristic bowling, and a 10-screen cinema from AMC. The entertainment destination will curate a diverse range of retail and food and beverage offerings to cater to various preferences.
SEVEN's Vision for Saudi Arabia
SEVEN's ambitious investment plan of over SAR 50 billion encompasses the development of 21 entertainment destinations across 14 cities in Saudi Arabia. This extensive plan includes Riyadh, Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, Dammam, Khobar, Al Ahsa, Madinah, Yanbu, Abha, Jizan, Buraidah, and Tabuk, reflecting a commitment to transforming the entertainment landscape across the Kingdom.