Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 18, 2025: Expo 2030, Economic Stability, Educational Grants, Privatization of Sports Clubs

This source, an issue of the Al-Riyadh newspaper from June 18, 2025, covers a diverse range of topics relevant to Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. It reports on the final approval of Riyadh’s bid for Expo 2030 and features articles on economic stability, energy security, and the Kingdom’s role in humanitarian aid, particularly in Syria and Yemen. The newspaper also highlights domestic initiatives like data classification training for government employees, educational grants for non-Saudis, and the privatization of sports clubs, reflecting the nation’s modernization efforts. Furthermore, it touches upon geopolitical tensions, with a focus on Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic stance regarding the Israeli-Iranian conflict, and includes general news on cultural events, sports, and local community matters.

Riyadh Secures Expo 2030 Hosting Rights

The file for “Expo 2030 Riyadh” has received final approval during the General Assembly meeting of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in Paris, the French capital. This approval marks the final stage for the host country’s registration.

The Kingdom’s delegation also received the flag of the International Expo. The delegation was led by His Excellency the Minister of State, Member of the Council of Ministers, and President of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, Eng. Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sultan, and was attended by the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the French Republic, Fahd bin Mayouf Al-Ruwaili, and other officials.

During the meeting, the main components of the file were reviewed, which serve as a reference embodying the Kingdom’s vision to organize an exceptional edition of the exhibition. This vision reflects the Kingdom’s ambitions and is based on progress, innovation, and international cooperation.

His Excellency expressed thanks and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, for their continuous support for the Kingdom’s hosting of this important global exhibition. The approval of the registration file in record time demonstrates the Kingdom’s leading position and strong international trust. It is also considered a significant step reflecting the professionalism of the teams involved in preparing and reviewing the file. This prepares the Kingdom for organizing an unprecedented and exceptional phase in the history of international Expos, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030.

Foundations of Global Energy Security

Energy security is regarded not as a luxury, but as a fundamental pillar for achieving comprehensive development and growth. Its absence can disrupt essential sectors such as healthcare, education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability, and even critical processes like water extraction and food security.

The importance of energy security has been heightened by ongoing geopolitical tensions, market fluctuations, and increasing global demand for energy. This evolving landscape necessitates a strategic approach that involves diversifying energy sources, investing in clean technologies, and implementing innovative financing solutions to accelerate access to energy and enhance long-term energy security.

According to the Minister of Finance, Mohammed Al-Jadaan, addressing energy poverty, which affects approximately 2.2 billion people globally, is a key component of economic policies aimed at fostering prosperity and overcoming developmental challenges. He emphasizes that development banks must act effectively to tackle these challenges.

Al-Jadaan outlined four main axes for multilateral development banks to enhance energy security:

1. Supporting All Energy Sources Multilateral development banks should support all energy sources without bias. He cautioned against policies that are unrealistic in reducing emissions by excluding major energy sources or neglecting investments in them, as such approaches can lead to significant challenges in energy markets and have disproportionate negative impacts on developing nations.
2. Providing Concessional Financing It is crucial for multilateral development banks to offer concessional financing to accelerate meeting energy access needs in regions suffering from shortages. Al-Jadaan highlighted initiatives like “Mission 300” in Africa, which aims to provide energy to 300 million people, and the “Forward 7” Clean Fuel Solutions initiative, which seeks to provide clean fuel solutions to millions worldwide. These initiatives are supported by various international partners, including the World Bank, Islamic Development Bank, OPEC Fund for International Development, and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).
3. Reducing Investment Risks Efforts must be made to reduce investment risks within the energy sector to encourage greater private sector participation. This can be achieved through various tools, such as partial risk guarantees, political risk insurance, and blended finance structures, which help mitigate anticipated risks and improve the fundability of energy projects, particularly in low-income and high-risk countries.
4. Investing in Emerging Technologies Increased investment in nascent energy technologies is essential, including carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) and more sustainable applications for hydrocarbon materials. These investments are vital for supporting the energy transition while simultaneously ensuring energy security on the path towards net-zero emissions.

Al-Jadaan stressed that the repercussions of energy poverty are not geographically confined, affecting all countries through economic instability, increased humanitarian burdens, and rising migration pressures. Saudi Arabia is committed to working with all parties to enhance energy security and eradicate energy poverty, while persistently striving to address climate change. The Kingdom has set an ambitious goal to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, aligning with the Circular Carbon Economy model. This cooperative approach among nations in strengthening energy security is seen as the optimal pathway for achieving fair and sustainable development that benefits everyone.

Saudi Arabia: Stability Through Dialogue and Energy Security

Regional stability is considered a fundamental pillar for achieving comprehensive development and growth. Its absence can disrupt essential sectors such as healthcare, education, economic productivity, environmental sustainability, and even critical processes like water extraction and food security.

The importance of regional stability has been heightened by ongoing geopolitical tensions, market fluctuations, and increasing global demand for energy. This evolving landscape necessitates a strategic approach that involves diversifying energy sources, investing in clean technologies, and implementing innovative financing solutions to accelerate access to energy and enhance long-term energy security.

Saudi Arabia’s Role and Vision: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia adopts a clear and consistent approach in regional and international affairs, founded on principles of respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs. It consistently seeks to resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful means.

The Kingdom expresses deep concern over dangerous escalations, such as the one between Israel and Iran, recognizing the severe consequences this could have on the security and stability of the entire region. Saudi Arabia’s consistent calls for de-escalation and the prevailing of reason stem from a deep belief that regional stability can only be achieved through mutual understanding and self-restraint.

Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy, particularly under the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, emphasizes strengthening stability and sustainable development, economic diversification, and regional cooperation, in alignment with Vision 2030 objectives. The Kingdom’s diplomatic efforts include continuous meetings and phone calls with international leaders to de-escalate tensions and promote stability.

The Kingdom explicitly condemns actions that violate the sovereignty and security of nations, viewing such acts as gross violations of international laws and norms. It emphasizes the rejection of using force to settle disputes and reiterates the necessity of dialogue as a basis for resolving disagreements.

Energy Security as a Pillar of Stability: According to the Minister of Finance, Mohammed Al-Jadaan, addressing energy poverty, which affects approximately 2.2 billion people globally, is a key component of economic policies aimed at fostering prosperity and overcoming developmental challenges. He stresses that multilateral development banks (MDBs) must act effectively to tackle these challenges.

Al-Jadaan outlined four main axes for MDBs to enhance energy security, which in turn contributes to regional stability:

1. Supporting All Energy Sources: MDBs should support all energy sources without bias. Policies that are unrealistic in reducing emissions by excluding major energy sources or neglecting investments in them can lead to significant challenges in energy markets and have disproportionate negative impacts on developing nations.
2. Providing Concessional Financing: It is crucial for MDBs to offer concessional financing to accelerate meeting energy access needs in regions suffering from shortages. Al-Jadaan highlighted initiatives like “Mission 300” in Africa, aiming to provide energy to 300 million people, and the “Forward 7” Clean Fuel Solutions initiative, which seeks to provide clean fuel solutions to millions worldwide. These initiatives are supported by various international partners, including the World Bank, Islamic Development Bank, OPEC Fund for International Development, and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).
3. Reducing Investment Risks: Efforts must be made to reduce investment risks within the energy sector to encourage greater private sector participation. This can be achieved through various tools, such as partial risk guarantees, political risk insurance, and blended finance structures, which help mitigate anticipated risks and improve the fundability of energy projects, particularly in low-income and high-risk countries.
4. Investing in Emerging Technologies: Increased investment in nascent energy technologies is essential, including carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) and more sustainable applications for hydrocarbon materials. These investments are vital for supporting the energy transition while simultaneously ensuring energy security on the path towards net-zero emissions.

Al-Jadaan emphasized that the repercussions of energy poverty are not geographically confined, affecting all countries through economic instability, increased humanitarian burdens, and rising migration pressures. Saudi Arabia is committed to working with all parties to enhance energy security and eradicate energy poverty, while persistently striving to address climate change. The Kingdom has set an ambitious goal to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, aligning with the Circular Carbon Economy model. This cooperative approach among nations in strengthening energy security is seen as the optimal pathway for achieving fair and sustainable development that benefits everyone.

Addressing Root Causes of Conflict: From a Saudi perspective, sustainable peace requires de-escalation of tensions, the involvement of all parties in a comprehensive dialogue, and addressing the root causes of conflicts such as economic disparity and political marginalization. Building national unity and providing equal opportunities for all citizens without discrimination are also highlighted as crucial steps to prevent external interventions and ensure stability. Alliances and cooperation are deemed important for territorial integrity, border security, and the flow of essential resources like water, contributing to stability and development.

Saudi Arabia’s Digital Transformation for Vision 2030

Digital Transformation is a fundamental aspect of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming for a comprehensive developmental transformation across various sectors. The Kingdom strives to become a global model in e-government and smart services, leveraging technology and innovation to achieve its ambitious goals.

Key aspects of digital transformation and its impact include:

• Vision 2030 as a Catalyst: The “Vision 2030” initiative, launched in 2016, is not merely a development plan but a comprehensive national project designed to reshape the nation’s future. It seeks to build a prosperous economy, a vibrant society, and an ambitious nation by diversifying income sources beyond oil, integrating new sectors such as technology, tourism, entertainment, renewable energy, and national industries. This vision aims to foster significant economic growth and create investment opportunities, leading to the highest economic growth rates in the region.
• Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI): The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) plays a crucial role in enhancing national capabilities in data classification. SDAIA has launched a training program for over 400 government employees, covering fundamental concepts, benefits, risks, and regulatory tools related to data classification. This initiative aims to improve data governance and efficiency within government entities, ultimately supporting decision-making processes and contributing to Vision 2030 objectives.
• Smart Cities and Infrastructure: Digital transformation is integral to the development of smart, sustainable cities. For instance, the “Infrastructure Projects Management Center” in Riyadh has implemented an automated notification service for residents and businesses. This service provides advance notice via text messages about ongoing infrastructure work (roads, water, electricity, telecommunications) in their vicinity, allowing for better planning and alternative route selection. This enhances transparency and aims to increase satisfaction with infrastructure projects by providing timely information. Smart operational designs are also being developed for public transport stations to facilitate movement, aligning with the goal of creating high-quality urban services.
• Enhanced Public Services:
• Judicial Services: The Virtual Notary Office has processed over 22,000 notarial operations remotely via the “Najiz” platform, including agencies, declarations, personal status, and real estate matters. This digital approach significantly reduces time and effort for beneficiaries, enabling them to access comprehensive notarial services 24/7 through secure digital channels.
• Healthcare: The Qassim Health Cluster has renewed accreditation for several primary healthcare centers, demonstrating continuous efforts to improve healthcare quality and patient trust through integrated development programs and rehabilitation initiatives. These advancements align with the Health Transformation Program and Vision 2030, focusing on enhancing quality of life and healthcare service efficiency.
• Sports and Entertainment: The Saudi sports media landscape is undergoing a radical shift with the adoption of digital platforms for broadcasting. The selection of “Thmanyah,” a company with no prior live broadcasting experience but a strong background in podcasts and audio storytelling, to manage broadcasting rights reflects a move towards smart sports broadcasting. This aims to transform the audience experience from passive viewing to active participation, providing a unified platform for all major tournaments in high-definition quality with flexible subscription models, archives, and interactive features. This transformation is supported by a significant increase in digital engagement with club accounts and international viewership.
• Cultural Sector: The Ministry of Culture actively uses technology to redefine the cultural experience. The “Culture Field” in Jeddah integrates art, technology, and nature to create immersive experiences, transforming heritage into creative platforms. Similarly, the “Terhal” show combines theatrical performances with light, human, and AI technologies to present a narrative deeply rooted in Saudi culture and heritage, aiming to provide a globally competitive artistic experience. Saudi Arabia’s participation in international events like the Beijing International Book Fair also highlights the use of cultural exchange to promote Saudi literature and artistic talent globally.

Overall, digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, driven by Vision 2030, is about harnessing technological advancements to foster economic diversification, improve public services, enhance quality of life, and strengthen the Kingdom’s global standing in various domains.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Sports Investment Transformation

Sports investment in Saudi Arabia is a pivotal component of the nation’s ambitious Vision 2030, aimed at achieving comprehensive developmental transformation across various sectors. The Kingdom is actively reshaping its sports landscape, transitioning from a model reliant on government support to a self-sustaining, industry-driven approach that fosters economic growth, enhances quality of life, and elevates its global standing.

Strategic Shift: From Support to Self-Sufficiency Historically, Saudi sports clubs depended heavily on government funding and contributions from honorary members. However, this model became insufficient to meet the evolving demands and ambitions of the sector. Vision 2030 initiated a fundamental change, embracing club privatization as a strategic move to stimulate the sports industry. The goal is to transform clubs into professional, investment-driven institutions capable of generating their own income, thereby reducing the financial burden on the state and ensuring long-term sustainability. This qualitative shift aims to make sports not just a game, but an integrated industry and economy.

Economic Impact and Growth Indicators: The privatization and investment efforts have already yielded positive results.

• Increased Fan Engagement and Viewership: There’s been a significant surge in digital engagement on club accounts, rising by 80% since mid-2023, and international viewership for the league has more than doubled, increasing by 126% in less than a year. This indicates a growing global interest in Saudi football.
• Attracting Global Talent: The influx of world-class players like Ronaldo, Benzema, Kanté, Mahrez, Mané, and Firmino has significantly elevated the artistic, marketing, and media appeal of the Saudi League.
• Market Growth: The global sports digital broadcasting market is projected to reach over $65 billion by 2028, growing at an annual rate exceeding 11%, demonstrating the vast potential for digital sports investments. Advertising spending on digital platforms is also expected to surpass $89 billion globally in 2025, driven by targeted advertising and behavioral data analysis, further enhancing the league’s attractiveness to advertisers.
• Infrastructure Development: The transformation includes significant investment in infrastructure across the nation, supporting projects like metro systems, railways, and modern airports, which indirectly benefit sports infrastructure.

Digital Transformation in Sports Broadcasting: A major aspect of sports investment is the radical shift in broadcasting from traditional television to digital platforms.

• New Broadcasting Models: The selection of “Thmanyah,” a company known for podcasts and audio storytelling but new to live broadcasting, to manage broadcasting rights, signifies a move towards smart sports broadcasting. This aims to transform the audience experience from passive viewing to active participation.
• Unified Digital Platforms: “Thmanyah” is set to offer a unified platform for major tournaments, including the Roshan League, King’s Cup, Super Cup, and Yelo League, in high-definition (FHD) and 4K quality. This platform will feature flexible subscription models, comprehensive archives, and interactive functionalities, similar to global platforms like DAZN and Apple TV.
• Youth Preference: Reports indicate that a significant portion of younger audiences (18-34) prefer consuming sports content on mobile devices and digital platforms over traditional television.

Challenges and Opportunities: Despite the rapid growth, the Saudi sports sector faces challenges:

• Revenue Generation: Club revenues do not yet fully meet ambitions, partly due to factors like low ticket prices, which cater to a youth demographic with limited purchasing power.
• Stadium Environment: The current stadium environment and services require further enhancement to attract larger audiences and improve the overall fan experience.
• Counterfeit Products: Clubs’ retail operations are impacted by the prevalence of counterfeit merchandise in the market, reducing sales of original products.

To address these challenges, specialized companies are encouraged to manage clubs, opening new avenues for revenue through smart marketing, sponsorships, and broadcasting rights. Expanding the fan base both locally and internationally, along with attracting more investors, are crucial opportunities. Tools like partial risk guarantees, political risk insurance, and blended finance structures can help mitigate investment risks and make energy (and by extension, other sectors like sports) projects more fundable.

Governmental Support and Vision: The Saudi leadership, particularly under His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, emphasizes strengthening stability, sustainable development, economic diversification, and regional cooperation, all aligned with Vision 2030 objectives. The “Quality of Life program,” a key Vision 2030 initiative, has driven significant improvements in sports, culture, and entertainment sectors. The Ministry of Culture also uses technology to redefine cultural experiences, linking art, technology, and nature to transform heritage into creative platforms.

Ultimately, the privatization of Saudi clubs is seen as a crucial step towards transforming Saudi sports into a “soft power” that contributes to shaping a modern national identity based on efficiency, competition, and high ambition.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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