Prince Faisal said there would be an operetta composed of national songs and traditional dances aimed at drawing tourists from different parts of the Kingdom and neighboring Gulf countries.
“The ban on concerts comes as a result of strong opposition from some people,” Prince Faisal said, adding that concerts in the past had attracted prominent Saudi and Gulf singers such as Muhammad Abdu, Khaled Abdul Rahman, Hussein Al-Jasmi, Rashid Al-Majed, Rashid Al-Faris, and Nabeel Shuail.
Prince Faisal, who is also chairman of the Tourism Development Council, said the festival would carry the theme “Abha Brings Us Together.”
Abha is the capital of Asir and located in the southern part of the Kingdom. Situated 2,200 meters above sea level, its mild climate makes it a popular tourist destination for both Saudi and expatriate families. “The aim of the festival is to promote trade and tourism in Asir and attract people from all over the Kingdom and other Gulf countries. Recreational activities are included in the festival. A circus, musical shows and a children’s theater are the main attractions,” an SCTA spokesman said.
He added that there would also be traditional dancing and other cultural events, reflecting Asir’s cosmopolitan character. “There will also be many activities that compel visitors to come back to the region every year to experience its natural wealth,” the spokesman added.
One of the main attractions for local and foreign tourists is the cable car, which allows people to experience a panoramic view of the entire mountainous region of Abha.
“One problem confronting us ahead of the festival is the scarcity of water this year, but necessary precautions have been taken to ensure we have an adequate supply,” the spokesman said.
He added that the global recession has not led to a decline in the number of tourists visiting the region and refuted allegations that the prices of hotels and furnished apartments and other services were high compared to other places.
