ABHA — The two-month annual Asir Festival begins on Shawwal 6 (July 11) Emir Prince Faisal Bin Khalid has announced, Al-Watan reported. The prince said Asir is known for its annual festival which caters to all ages and all interests. "Asir Yajmaana Annual Festival will include 19 different main events including a national opera performance. The events include a standup comedy performance, the nights of the governorates, Abha poetry nights, the street of art, Rally Asir, Family Carnival, tour bus, the international championship of gliding, mountain hiking, motorcycle shows, equestrian festival, Asir 1st Marathon, Honey Festival, Al-Soudah Festival for shopping and luxury, Al-Soudah Historic Village, Productive Families, governorates' summer, Tuyour Al-Jannah Show and Dawa Tent," Prince Faisal said. He also said national festival increases the rate of national tourism by a great deal. "People are encouraged to attend and visit various festivals. With the Vision of 2030 to increase the rate of national tourism, festivals are given much support and logistic rights. These festivals mobilize the Saudi job market by offering new jobs to Saudis and contributing to the economy," said the emir. He added festivals are a good way to sell national products and offer various services. "There are many investors now interested in national tourism knowing that the Kingdom will support enterprises related to national tourism as part of its 2030 plan. "Tourism Development Council worked hard on the festival and made Abha city and Asir province national destinations," said the prince. He added the festival represents Asir and its diverse culture through traditional art forms and souks and through its scenic nature. "The city is preparing for the festival by making more than 1,000 hospitality establishments with vacant rooms for tourists. There will also be 95 travel agencies and 20 tour guides. The rate of flights into Abha has increased and it has now reached 530 domestic flights per week," said the prince. He added there are 35 museums and 10 historic villages that people can visit and that the pertinent authorities and directorates ensure the cleanliness of the city.
