DAMMAM, July 1, 2025 — Global City could deliver a major economic boost to the Eastern Province. A regional strategy report notes that as Saudi Arabia advances Vision 2030, Dammam is “emerging as a future hub of tourism, culture, and commerce”. The Eastern Province saw a sharp drop in tourism last year, and officials expect the development to reverse that trend by attracting both domestic and international visitors. A consultant’s report specifically predicts projects like Global City “will attract local and international visitors, boosting tourism and generating economic revenue” for the region.

Local job creation is a key selling point. Project forecasts state that Global City will provide “numerous job opportunities in various fields such as services, management, marketing, security, and others,” helping reduce unemployment. By drawing crowds to the new attractions, the complex is also expected to stimulate nearby businesses and shops. One analysis even suggests Global City will help drive a strong rebound in regional visitor spending.

The developers – a joint venture led by Thailand’s Vega Intertrade & Exhibitions – emphasize their track record. Vega, founded in 2003, has more than 20 years of experience staging trade fairs and cultural festivals across the Middle East and North Africa. Company materials boast that it is “an expert in converting unused space into interesting and profitable business ventures”, reflecting the firm’s role in bringing international events and pavilions to the site.

Investors are also drawn by Dammam’s accessibility and business environment. The city is less than an hour’s flight from Bahrain, Kuwait or Riyadh, and roughly 90 minutes from Qatar or the UAE. Additionally, Dammam is “connected by major highways, ports, and an international airport”, making the site easily reachable from across the region. Saudi planners highlight the area’s free-zone tax breaks and business-friendly policies. Promotional materials even call Global City a “rare business opportunity” at the heart of Vision 2030’s tourism push, underscoring the expected growth prospects for investors.