Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 20 To June 28, 2025. Last Week News Reports

These sources predominantly cover a range of topics concerning Saudi Arabia’s domestic affairs and its evolving international role. Several articles focus on economic transformation, technological advancements, and cultural preservation initiatives within the Kingdom, including efforts to boost tourism, invest in AI, and protect historical sites. Additionally, there’s significant coverage of regional geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding the Israeli-Iranian conflict and its impact on oil markets, alongside news about humanitarian efforts and educational achievements. Finally, the sources also touch upon public health, infrastructure development, and sports news, reflecting a diverse array of national interests and global interactions.

20799

This comprehensive newspaper, dated June 20-21, 2025, covers a wide range of topics focusing primarily on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiatives and their impact. Key themes include the flourishing tourism sector, highlighted by the launch of Expo 2030 Riyadh and significant investments in infrastructure and job creation, aiming to attract 100 million visitors annually. The articles also delve into the rise of the green finance market, with Saudi Arabia leading the Gulf region in sustainable bonds and demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the publication explores the growing e-sports industry, positioning Riyadh as a global hub for competitive gaming with major tournaments and substantial prize pools. Beyond these economic and technological advancements, the newspaper also features cultural pieces on modern poetry, the preservation of historical sites like Sebastia in Palestine, and the role of Saudi citizens in driving internal tourism, underscoring a holistic approach to national development and identity.

20800

This collection of excerpts, likely from a Saudi Arabian publication, highlights the Kingdom’s widespread progress and ambitious Vision 2030. Key themes include advancements in education, with Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals ranking globally, and economic diversification beyond oil, exemplified by the petrochemical industry’s innovation and the “100 Saudi Brands” initiative. The text also emphasizes the Kingdom’s global humanitarian efforts through King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, infrastructure development in cities like Al-Khobar and Hail, and a focus on improving quality of life and tourism. Finally, it touches on significant international events such as the Kingdom’s hosting of Expo 2030 and its growing influence in regional and global affairs, all underpinned by a consistent drive toward sustainable development and a vibrant society.

20801

This extensive collection of excerpts from “20801.pdf,” identified as a daily newspaper from Al Yamamah Press Foundation, offers a comprehensive snapshot of current affairs, economic developments, and societal discussions in Saudi Arabia as of Monday, June 23, 2025. The document emphasizes the Kingdom’s steadfast pursuit of stability and progress amidst regional tensions, highlighting diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts and Vision 2030’s transformative impact on various sectors. Key themes include the advancement of healthcare and tourism infrastructure, the modernization of governance and economic policies to foster innovation and enhance global competitiveness, and the nation’s firm stance against terrorism while actively engaging in international dialogues. Furthermore, the newspaper sheds light on ongoing humanitarian concerns in conflict zones like Gaza and discussions surrounding defense spending among global allies, all while maintaining a focus on domestic initiatives for social welfare and cultural preservation.

20802

This collection of excerpts offers a multifaceted glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, highlighting significant transformations across various sectors, while also touching upon global geopolitical and health concerns. The text emphasizes the remarkable growth in the tourism sector, driven by mega-projects and strategic initiatives, alongside efforts to diversify the national economy beyond oil, as evidenced by the expansion of non-oil activities like manufacturing and mining. Furthermore, it details key advancements in social development, including judicial reforms, educational curriculum adjustments, and community welfare programs, with a particular focus on empowering women. Interspersed with these national developments are discussions on international affairs, such as the volatility of global energy markets due to Middle Eastern conflicts and the challenges faced by the United Nations in a world grappling with numerous crises.

20803

This compilation of news excerpts from “20803.pdf” offers a multifaceted snapshot of current events and developments, primarily focusing on Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. A central theme is diplomatic efforts towards regional stability, highlighted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s engagement in peace talks between Iran and Israel and the Gulf Cooperation Council’s condemnation of Iranian attacks on Qatar. The document also delves into domestic affairs, showcasing initiatives related to economic diversification and quality of life improvements within Saudi Arabia, such as the new regulations for selling livestock by weight, efforts to revitalize struggling factories, and the “Humanization of Roads” project in Al-Khobar. Furthermore, it touches upon humanitarian concerns, particularly the devastating situation in Gaza due to ongoing conflict and the challenges faced by displaced populations, while also reporting on general global news like the impact of AI on employment and energy market fluctuations.

20804

This collection of excerpts, likely from a newspaper or official report, offers a multifaceted glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 and its ongoing initiatives across various sectors. Key themes include the Kingdom’s drive to diversify its economy and enhance quality of life, evidenced by major infrastructure projects like the Riyadh train and urban development plans in Dammam, and efforts to boost tourism. The document also highlights diplomatic engagements, such as the Saudi-US summit and discussions on regional conflicts, emphasizing the Kingdom’s role in promoting peace and stability. Domestically, there’s a focus on social welfare, labor market reforms to increase Saudi employment, and the regulation of vital sectors like healthcare and real estate, including recent market adjustments in Riyadh. Finally, the text touches on cultural and sports initiatives, showcasing the Kingdom’s growing presence on the global stage through events like the Esports World Cup and the historical contributions of Saudi sports figures.

20805

This collection of excerpts from “20805.pdf” presents a multi-faceted snapshot of Saudi Arabian society, economy, and culture in 2025. The document delves into diverse topics, beginning with a geopolitical commentary on the Iran-Israel conflict and the Saudi Arabian stance advocating for dialogue and diplomacy over war. It then shifts to an economic focus, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the Saudi economy in the face of global challenges and its strategic initiatives, particularly in the electric vehicle sector, aligning with Vision 2030. Furthermore, the text explores Saudi cultural heritage through discussions of traditional arts like the Ardah dance and Al-Muhawara poetry, alongside a profile of Dr. Ali Al-Daffa, a pioneering Saudi mathematician. Finally, the excerpts touch upon modern societal shifts, emphasizing women’s empowerment and their increasing roles in various professional fields, while also addressing the critical need for media literacy and responsible engagement with news in the digital age.

Podcast

Saudi Visions: Development, Diplomacy, and Culture

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided sources, organized by heading, with each heading’s content presented in two paragraphs as requested:

كلمة (Word/Editorial)

The editorial emphasizes security as a fundamental pillar of tourism, asserting that even beautiful destinations with reasonable prices will not attract tourists if security is not guaranteed. A tourist’s enjoyment of a destination and their sense of safety for themselves and their belongings are paramount; without it, the experience loses all meaning.

The editorial also discusses the recent 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel, noting its open-ended possibilities and regional implications, raising concerns about its extensions and ramifications. There are conflicting statements regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with the U.S. claiming its termination while Iran asserts it evacuated its nuclear sites before the U.S. strike. The editorial suggests that until a clear picture emerges, the situation remains a source of tension and uncertainty.

رافد اقتصادي وهرم لتنويع الموارد (Economic Pillar and Pyramid for Diversifying Resources)

Saudi tourism investment is fundamentally about directing capital, both material and human, towards developing the tourism sector to maximize national income and revenue. This encompasses not only building hotels and resorts but also supporting small and medium-sized tourism projects, and upgrading essential infrastructure like transportation networks, energy, health services, and sanitation for both locals and visitors. This extensive development supports a diversified and sustainable economy, creates job opportunities, and aids local communities by increasing demand for local products and crafts, thus improving quality of life and preserving local heritage.

The growth in tourism investment fosters the need for new products and services, driving innovation and offering local entrepreneurs global opportunities. It also necessitates skilled national cadres in hospitality, tourism guidance, and logistics, enhancing the competitiveness of the Saudi workforce and reinforcing human resource development. Additionally, tourism investment contributes to environmental and cultural preservation by allocating resources for protecting natural and archaeological sites, ensuring sustainable tourism development. The Kingdom is investing heavily in diverse tourism projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea, alongside promoting health tourism and offering government incentives to investors, all while focusing on national cadre development and adhering to a bold vision for a prosperous, globally competitive tourism future.

العلا.. قصة نجاح في التنمية السياحية (AlUla.. A Success Story in Tourism Development)

AlUla is presented as a success story in tourism development, embodying the Kingdom’s ambitious vision for a thriving and sustainable tourism industry. This region showcases a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern appeal, with significant projects like NEOM, Amaala, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea transforming Saudi Arabia into a global tourism destination. The development projects in AlUla are aimed at providing a comprehensive and sustainable cultural experience for visitors, reflecting a strong commitment to preserving its rich heritage while embracing modernity.

AlUla’s success is also deeply rooted in its unique environmental and agricultural richness, characterized by palm trees and rock formations. The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has begun issuing grazing permits in areas like the Al-Sibla and Rawdat Al-Dawadmi parks in AlUla, aiming to regulate grazing, achieve ecological balance, and reduce environmental degradation. This strategic approach ensures that AlUla’s natural beauty and historical significance are preserved while simultaneously fostering sustainable development and economic opportunities for the local community.

ما بعد الجينوم.. سيادة البيانات الحيوية (Post-Genome.. Sovereignty of Biological Data)

“Biological Sovereignty” is described not as a theoretical term but as a strategic path reflecting a nation’s capacity to locally produce and utilize biological knowledge, leveraging its human, technical, and legislative resources, particularly in energy and water sectors. This aims to achieve advanced levels of sovereignty in areas crucial for national control, such as health and agriculture. Genetic data is considered a national treasure, whose full potential will only be realized when effectively employed to serve individuals and society, for example, by designing tailored medications or developing animal strains suitable for local environments and food needs.

Despite significant progress, a gap remains between possessing and exploiting biological data, with continued reliance on external genomic analysis platforms. This dependence could lead to foreign entities gaining competitive advantages by understanding local needs and developing custom products and services. The concept of biological sovereignty therefore emphasizes the national will to protect data privacy and prevent its exploitation abroad, transforming this scientific revolution into a sovereign and developmental message. Achieving this requires a shift in perspective towards genes as tools for change, necessitating immediate and future cooperation between researchers, legislators, farmers, investors, citizens, and the state.

طب الأسنان: سوء الإطباق والآثار الجانبية للعلاج (Dentistry: Malocclusion and Treatment Side Effects)

Malocclusion, or dental misalignment, often results from hereditary factors, though it can also be caused by specific conditions like tumors, jaw problems, childhood habits (e.g., thumb sucking), or facial injuries. It is defined as a morphological or structural variation that may or may not be linked to specific diseases. The global prevalence of malocclusion, particularly its higher incidence in patients with hereditary conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta (39% in children and 93% in adolescents globally), is a primary driver for the growth of the orthodontic market.

However, the growth of the orthodontic market is hindered by significant side effects associated with long-term treatment. Poor execution of orthodontic procedures can lead to complications such as severe pain, gum disease, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and other serious issues. While dental braces are widely used among adolescents to correct alignment, they come with drawbacks like gum disease, sensitivity, hardening, soft tissue injuries, or oral ulcers. These factors collectively are expected to impede the adoption of orthodontic products, consequently limiting market growth.

منحوتة المصحف (The Quran Sculpture)

The “Quran Sculpture” is described as an artistic masterpiece that harmonizes the noble meanings of the Holy Quran with refined artistic expression. The use of marble in its construction symbolizes solidity, eternity, and the enduring nature of Islam, while the incorporation of local materials adds a profound dimension connecting the earth to divine revelation. This sculpture, by elevating the Quran’s status without compromising its sanctity, represents a dignified artistic act that underscores the glorification of religious rituals through sophisticated, deliberate art.

This artwork serves as a powerful, silent message that art can be a bearer of values, bridging the gap between beauty and faith. Its significance lies in its intersection of art, religion, and national identity, highlighting the ability of Saudi artists to present their religious symbols in a unique visual language. It is seen as a qualitative addition to the nascent local sculpture scene, particularly in the realm of symbolic art with religious dimensions.

الإحساس والمعنى في البيت الشعري (Sense and Meaning in Poetic Verse)

Poetry is considered one of the highest forms of human expression because it conveys meaning and embodies emotion. While meaning is the message a poet intends to deliver (e.g., an idea, position, wisdom, or story), emotion is the feeling infused within that message (e.g., longing, nostalgia, pain, pride, or enthusiasm). Although a poetic verse may easily convey meaning through its words, it is the emotion it overflows with that makes it timeless and deeply touching.

The author explains that meaning appeals to the intellect, while emotion touches the heart directly. For example, in the verse “Oh, if youth would return one day, I would tell it what fate has done,” the meaning is a wish for youth’s return to warn against old age, but the emotion conveyed is deep sorrow and regret. Conversely, in a verse like “If you venture into a noble cause, never settle for less than the stars,” the meaning is not to be content with little when aspiring to glory, while the emotion is pride and ambition.

إلى وطن خارطته القلب (To a Homeland Whose Map is the Heart)

The title “To a Homeland Whose Map is the Heart” refers to the deep connection citizens feel to their country and its diverse regions. The author emphasizes how Saudi families are increasingly choosing to explore domestic destinations rather than traveling abroad for vacations, rediscovering cities like Abha, Al-Ula, Taif, and coastal areas in Tabuk and Umluj. This shift signifies a growing awareness and appreciation among Saudis for the geographical, cultural, and historical richness within their own homeland.

The author recounts personal experiences from these regions, highlighting the stunning natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, particularly in the ‘Asir region with sites like Al-Soudah and Rijal Almaa. This internal tourism fosters a sense of belonging and community, as locals open their homes as rural accommodations and offer their traditional products, creating unforgettable memories imbued with unique human warmth. The author passionately encourages everyone to explore Saudi Arabia, affirming that the true beauty and opportunities they seek abroad are, in fact, right at their feet.

نزعة الجروتيسك وبناء المعنى في المتخيل البصري (The Grotesque Tendency and the Construction of Meaning in Visual Imagination)

Mallory Page’s abstract works utilize multiple layers of color that flow across large canvases, focusing on psychological observations, dreams, and the subconscious to create deep and sensitive interactions with her paintings. Her artistic approach often involves using a single color with subtle variations to create light effects, rather than applying multiple colors, emphasizing delicate layers and broad color ranges. Her work is noted for its geometric balance, with a horizontal black line often traversing the canvas to balance the weight of blocks and create visual breathing space.

Technically, Page employs acrylic paints on paper, which offers a vibrant and tangible quality unlike traditional canvas, allowing the pigment to interact with pressure and reveal the artist’s spontaneous hand. The work also suggests the potential for integrating local Arabic texts and foreign newspaper excerpts to deepen the human and global dimensions, transforming paper scraps into integral parts of the art that invite reading and interpretation. Marzook’s artistic vision, also mentioned in this context, extends beyond traditional methods, seeking new spaces and effectively blending heritage with modernity through media art, questioning the meanings of color and space, particularly the powerful effect of black.

عقاراتنا وثقافة «افرق السوم» (Our Real Estate and the “Difference in Price” Culture)

The real estate market in Riyadh is described as experiencing a crisis not of funding or demand, but of understanding between sellers and buyers, complicated by a culture where sellers inflate prices and buyers hesitate. The core issue is an imbalance between genuinely appealing supply and serious demand, with many properties listed but few meeting criteria like fair price, desirable location, complete services, clear title deeds, or readiness for negotiation. The current market situation is a “mirror to the greed of some parties” and the “hesitation of others,” leading to missed opportunities for growth and residential stability.

To address this, there’s an anticipated call for the Real Estate Authority to launch a trusted platform for properties ready for sale, managed by a reliable entity, ensuring the authenticity of deeds and realistic pricing. This platform would only feature properties where owners are open to logical negotiation. Additionally, government entities and community centers are urged to launch awareness campaigns through media channels to educate the public on the difference between fair pricing and speculative inflation, highlighting the negative impacts of real estate greed on the market, the economy, and family well-being.

العناية بالبشرة: الزيوت الزائدة، تصبغات العنق، وآثار الجروح (Skin Care: Excess Oils, Neck Pigmentation, and Scars)

Oily skin is often characterized by a shiny appearance and persistent breakouts due to overactive sebaceous glands, which can be hereditary or influenced by hormonal imbalances. While it has benefits like less visible pigmentation and wrinkles, and good tanning results, its downsides include a constantly greasy look and rough texture. Proper care involves frequent washing with warm water and soap, avoiding harsh products that can dry the skin and trigger more oil production, and using mild, oil-free synthetic solutions or cleansers with alpha-hydroxy acids to remove dead cells. Products containing phytosphingosine are also noted for reducing oiliness and preventing acne for several days.

Neck and armpit pigmentation, along with skin folds, are common concerns, often treated with exfoliating creams (like Vitamin A creams or fruit acids) at suitable concentrations to avoid irritation, followed by lightening creams used consistently for up to six months. In some cases, chemical peels may be considered. For scars or keloids (raised scars) resulting from excess collagen formation after surgery, various treatments include: monthly cortisone injections, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen before injections, silicone sheets applied for several hours, and newer treatments like pulsed dye lasers, especially for fresh scars. Patients with a history of keloids should inform their surgeon to consider post-operative cortisone injections to minimize scar formation.

الرياضات الإلكترونية: رونالدو سفيرًا عالمّيًا وكأس العالم (E-Sports: Ronaldo as Global Ambassador and the World Cup)

Cristiano Ronaldo has been appointed as a global ambassador for the E-Sports World Cup in Saudi Arabia for the second consecutive year, reflecting the Kingdom’s ambition to lead the global gaming and e-sports scene, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi E-Sports Federation, highlighted that this appointment underscores the Kingdom’s pioneering role in shaping the future of the sector worldwide. This significant endorsement aims to boost the tournament’s journey, which is described as the largest in e-sports history, forming a global platform that unites talent and celebrates innovation.

Ronaldo’s participation is expected to bridge traditional sports with e-sports, inspiring new generations of players. Ralph Reicheter, CEO of the E-Sports World Cup Foundation, praised Ronaldo’s professional mindset, discipline, and constant pursuit of excellence as embodying the true spirit of the E-Sports World Cup. Ronaldo himself expressed that e-sports represent the future of the global sports and entertainment sectors, noting that the passion and determination of e-sports players mirror his own journey in football. His involvement is poised to have a positive impact on the e-sports sector globally.

كرة اليد في الشرقية: من الآباء إلى الأبناء (Handball in the Eastern Province: From Fathers to Sons)

Handball in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province has seen generations of stars emerge, transitioning from fathers to sons, indicative of strong competition that has shaped talent. This includes players like Ahmed Qusai, who followed in his father’s footsteps, and Musallam Ahmed, who played for Al-Qadisiya and Al-Khaleej before transferring to Al-Ittifaq for an “investment deal”. This phenomenon underscores the deep-rooted passion and continuous achievements in the sport within the region.

The Eastern Province is considered the heartland of Saudi handball, with its teams demonstrating a high level of competition. The sport has reached global recognition, with teams from the region making it to the finals of the World Cup ten times. The tradition of handball being passed down through generations reflects a rich sporting heritage and a commitment to nurturing new talent, ensuring the sport’s continued success and prominence.

مشاعر الحج (Hajj Feelings)

The successful organization of this year’s Hajj season is attributed to the comprehensive provision of services and resources made available to pilgrims, enabling them to perform their rituals with ease and tranquility. This success is seen as a direct result of the care and guidance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the diligent follow-up by the Crown Prince. Artist Saeed Al-Aawi’s work, inspired by the Quranic verse “And let them circumambulate the Ancient House,” captures the essence of Hajj by highlighting the illuminated tents, the white minarets, and the extensive use of white in the scene, symbolizing the purity and spiritual atmosphere of the holy cities.

The Kingdom expresses pride and honor in serving the guests of God, acknowledging the pilgrims’ arduous journeys across lands and seas to reach the holy sites. The success of the Hajj season, and the positive interactions pilgrims experience, reflect the honorable conduct of the Saudi people. Poets and poetesses have composed beautiful verses expressing love and appreciation for the pilgrims, further underscoring the deep respect and welcome extended to them in the land where the religion of Islam originated.

متابعات (Follow-ups: Government & Academic News)

This section covers various governmental and academic updates, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to quality, development, and citizen welfare. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman, Deputy Emir of Riyadh, attended the King Abdulaziz Quality Award ceremony, underscoring the importance of institutional excellence and national development. Concurrently, Prince Saud bin Nayef, Emir of the Eastern Province, lauded the inclusion of Al-Khobar in global livability rankings, attributing it to the leadership’s support and successful urban planning efforts.

Further updates include the ongoing efforts in water infrastructure development across regions like Medina and Hail, supervised by regional Emirs to ensure project completion and service delivery to citizens. There is also a focus on empowering national cadres, with Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud of the Eastern Province emphasizing their pivotal role in economic development and competitiveness. The Minister of Justice’s report on real estate transactions and various judicial updates, along with the General Mufti’s engagements, reflect a holistic approach to governance, ensuring legal and religious guidance and societal well-being.

المسجد النبوي: النظافة والتهيئة لضيوف الرحمن (Prophet’s Mosque: Cleanliness and Preparation for Pilgrims)

The Prophet’s Mosque is meticulously prepared to welcome pilgrims and visitors, with three thousand male and female workers dedicated to its cleaning and sterilization. This extensive effort ensures a comfortable and serene environment for worshippers. The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Prophet’s Mosque oversees continuous preparations, including opening sunshades in the courtyards for protection, maintaining cooling systems, and deploying mobile teams to manage crowds and provide spiritual guidance and essential services.

These services extend beyond the Hajj season to accommodate the year-round influx of visitors, including providing religious guidance, answering legal questions related to Umrah rituals, and distributing awareness materials. The continuous efforts in cleanliness and crowd management are crucial for maintaining the sanctity and functionality of the Prophet’s Mosque, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to serving pilgrims and ensuring their comfort and safety.

البنية التحتية: طرق بريدة ومشروعات المياه (Infrastructure: Buraidah Roads and Water Projects)

Buraidah Municipality is actively engaged in rehabilitating the western part of King Salman Road, aiming to enhance the road network and improve traffic safety. This project is part of a broader municipal effort to uplift the quality of services and expand public open spaces, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community in line with quality of life programs. The municipality’s commitment reflects its continuous pursuit of urban development goals.

In addition to road projects, the Saudi Water Authority (SWA) has launched the new identity for the Global Water Innovation Award (GPIW), inviting innovators and researchers to participate in its third edition. This award, set to be held in Jeddah in December, emphasizes enhancing innovation and empowering competencies in the water sector, aiming to consolidate Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for water research and innovation. The SWA also oversees significant water projects across various regions, demonstrating sustained investment in critical infrastructure.

فعالية «عيونك أمانة» التوعوية (The “Your Eyes Are a Trust” Awareness Event)

The “Your Eyes Are a Trust” awareness event was organized for employees of Islamic Affairs Ministry to promote eye health and vision safety. The event featured advanced eye examinations and distributed awareness materials emphasizing the importance of early detection and prevention of eye diseases. This initiative aims to strengthen concepts of self-care and attention to eye health within the workplace environment.

Dr. Adam Al-Atoun, an ophthalmology specialist, delivered an educational lecture addressing key health challenges related to the eye and preventive measures. He stressed the importance of regular eye exams and adhering to medical guidelines for maintaining vision safety. The event also included a visual presentation on the latest developments in ophthalmology and eye surgery, providing a platform for attendees to ask questions and interact with the medical team.

الصراع الإسرائيلي-الفلسطيني: الأزمة الإنسانية والعدوان (Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Humanitarian Crisis and Aggression)

The sources highlight the ongoing humanitarian crisis and Israeli aggression in Palestine, particularly in Gaza and occupied Jerusalem. Reports indicate Israeli forces conducting excavations and demolitions in historical sites like Nabi Yahya’s shrine in the West Bank, aiming to assert control over Palestinian cultural heritage. In Gaza, there are accounts of civilian casualties from Israeli shelling, with sources detailing multiple deaths and injuries, including children, from strikes on refugee camps and residential areas in Khan Yunis and Nuseirat.

The health sector in Gaza is facing a severe crisis, with the Ministry of Health warning of critical shortages in laboratory testing materials and blood units, risking a “health catastrophe” amidst a rise in casualties. The Israeli occupation’s intensified measures in Jerusalem, including demolition plans, restricting access to Al-Aqsa Mosque, and imposing military checkpoints, are aimed at altering the city’s demographic character and expelling indigenous Palestinians. These actions are denounced as violations of international law and human rights, leading to severe hardship and displacement for Palestinian residents.

الصراع الإيراني-الإسرائيلي: التوترات الإقليمية والحلول الدبلوماسية (Iranian-Israeli Conflict: Regional Tensions and Diplomatic Solutions)

The region is grappling with escalating tensions following Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities and subsequent Iranian retaliatory strikes, leading to significant regional and global concern. Saudi Arabia, along with other GCC, Arab, and European nations, has condemned the aggression and called for de-escalation, self-restraint, and resolution of all disputes through diplomatic means. The Kingdom reiterated its firm support and solidarity with Qatar after it was targeted by Iranian missiles, emphasizing Qatar’s right to defend its sovereignty.

The ceasefire that came into effect after 12 days of conflict between Iran and Israel was positively received by markets, leading to a rise in US stock futures and a move away from safe-haven assets like gold. However, concerns remain about the potential for higher energy prices and continued economic uncertainty. Diplomatic efforts continue, with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcoming the ceasefire agreement and engaging with regional leaders to underscore the importance of dialogue for regional stability and security.

الذكاء الاصطناعي: تحديات الاندفاع والحلول (Artificial Intelligence: Challenges of Haste and Solutions)

The rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Saudi Arabia is driven by profit motives, with companies facing pressure to cut costs and boost efficiency, leading to a scramble to incorporate AI regardless of readiness. Start-ups are similarly compelled, as asking “Does it use AI?” often determines funding. This rush is further fueled by a media machine that promotes AI success stories while burying failures, creating a competitive environment where managers rush to keep up, even if it means premature employee layoffs without a ready workforce to replace them.

A significant challenge lies in the slow pace of educational institutions to update curricula to match AI advancements, resulting in a gap between industry needs and graduate skills. The author warns against unbridled adoption, stressing the responsibility to slow down AI component integration and address fundamental issues like weak integration between AI and other essential components. The proposed solution involves positive intervention to foster a seamless integration of AI with education, employment, and legislation, transforming the energy of this “rush” into a creative force for progress.

الدبلوماسية الثقافية للمملكة (Cultural Diplomacy of the Kingdom)

Cultural diplomacy in Saudi Arabia is defined as a set of values, principles, and practices guiding the state’s external relations, drawing strength from its rich cultural and historical heritage. It is rooted in Islamic principles of justice, peace, cooperation, and respect for national sovereignty, characterized by Saudi values of generosity, hospitality, and wisdom in decision-making. This approach emphasizes cultural exchange as a soft power tool to enhance understanding and strengthen international relations, projecting an image of openness and dynamism.

The article highlights that cultural diplomacy is not merely a diplomatic tool but a fundamental component of Saudi identity, reflecting the nation’s profound history, deep-rooted traditions, and artistic expressions. By promoting its diverse cultural landscape, from ancient sites like AlUla to vibrant modern cities, Saudi Arabia aims to bridge cultural gaps and offer authentic, immersive experiences. This strategy also involves investments in soft power elements like education, arts, and media, recognizing their critical role in shaping global perceptions and building strategic alliances.

الزعيم الهلال: أداء الفريق وتحدياته (Al-Hilal, The Leader: Team Performance and Challenges)

Al-Hilal, known as “The Leader,” faces significant challenges in major tournaments like the Club World Cup, where it aims to qualify for the second round and advance as far as possible. Despite being a global product “made in Saudi Arabia”, the team’s performance has been critiqued, particularly for lacking a clear striker and showing physical fatigue, especially in key matches. Their recent draw against Real Madrid, while respectable, highlighted these deficiencies.

Players and coaches acknowledge the tough competition, especially against strong teams like Salzburg and Pachuca. Coach Inzaghi made tactical changes, including substituting key players, to adapt to injuries and player fitness. The media and fan engagement are intense, with some observers noting that Al-Hilal’s strong performance against European teams contrasts with other teams’ struggles, putting the team under immense pressure to deliver consistent results and potentially affecting other teams’ performances.

«زالي»: نظام أمن الحدود (Zali: Border Security System)

The General Directorate of Border Guards has enhanced its technological capabilities by implementing “Zali,” a prominent Saudi technology aimed at improving the efficiency of border security operations. This system is characterized by its high technical efficiency and ability to operate effectively in all weather conditions and environments. It significantly supports quick response to incidents and contributes to protecting the Kingdom’s borders.

The advanced technology utilized by “Zali” plays a crucial role in enhancing field security operations by enabling rapid detection and response to threats. Its robust performance in diverse climatic conditions ensures continuous vigilance and protection along the Kingdom’s extensive borders. This initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to safeguard national security and efficiently manage its frontiers.

الريادة الحيوية لمستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي (“BIO International”: King Faisal Specialist Hospital’s Bio-Leadership)

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) showcased its leadership in biotechnology at the BIO International Conference 2025 in Boston. During its participation in the Saudi Biotechnology Pavilion, KFSH&RC highlighted its experience in utilizing genome technologies and genetic data for healthcare innovation. The hospital engaged in discussions about cooperation and knowledge exchange in biotechnology with international institutions.

KFSH&RC’s CEO, Dr. Majid Al-Fayyadh, emphasized that the Kingdom’s health transformation fosters innovation through strategic investments in infrastructure, developing competencies, and updating legislation, thus bolstering Saudi Arabia’s position in biotechnology and precision medicine globally. The hospital integrates its research programs into the clinical care value chain, leveraging rich patient data and linking genetic information with phenotypic patterns to accelerate the development of personalized treatments and innovative diagnostic models. KFSH&RC contributes approximately 10% of global entries to the OMIM genetic mutation database, signifying its pioneering role in rare genetic disease research and genomic sciences worldwide.

برامج تعليم اللغة الإنجليزية (English Language Education Programs)

A Saudi university offers diverse English language programs ranging from preparatory courses for secondary and university students and graduates, to specialized English for tourism, and communication skills for Arabic speakers. It also provides a qualification program for the Cambridge English Language Assessment (CELTA), an internationally accredited certificate from Cambridge University, for non-native English speaking teachers.

The university has expanded its training formats, offering a blend of in-person and electronic courses, and grants accredited completion certificates to participants. These programs are designed to enhance English language proficiency among various segments of the Saudi population, contributing to their professional development and equipping them with essential communication skills for the job market and the global tourism sector.

تسهيل مغادرة الحجاج الإيرانيين بواسطة سدايا (SDAIA Facilitates Departure of Iranian Pilgrims)

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) played a crucial role in facilitating the departure procedures for Iranian pilgrims, in line with directives from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince to ensure all their needs and services are met. SDAIA’s field teams implemented a comprehensive technical plan before and during the pilgrims’ arrival, which involved testing primary and backup systems to ensure continuous communication and uninterrupted operations.

This strategic support included conducting preventive maintenance, preparing workstations with advanced smart technologies and digital infrastructure, and ensuring rapid completion of procedures in coordination with relevant government entities. SDAIA’s efforts underscore its commitment to empowering government sectors with advanced data and AI technologies to enhance the efficiency of services for pilgrims and accelerate administrative procedures, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals.

هيئة المياه تطلق جائزة الابتكار العالمية (Water Authority Launches Global Innovation Award)

The Saudi Water Authority (SWA) has launched the new identity for the Global Water Innovation Award (GPIW), and has renewed its call for innovators, researchers, and scientific institutions to participate in its third edition. The award ceremony is scheduled for December in Jeddah, coinciding with the fourth edition of the Water Innovation for Sustainability Conference. The previous two editions of the award saw record participation, confirming SWA’s commitment to fostering innovation and empowering technical and research capabilities in the water sector regionally and globally.

Since its inception, the GPIW has been recognized as a leading international platform supporting research and development in water, providing a competitive environment and bringing together innovators from various specialties. The award covers six main categories that reflect key challenges and opportunities in water technologies, serving as a primary focus for competition. These categories include advanced water production, water quality improvement and reuse, the circular economy in water, and digital models and automation, among others, aiming to establish Saudi Arabia as an international hub for water research and innovation.

وزارة السياحة: تكثيف الرقابة في الوجهات الصيفية (Ministry of Tourism: Intensifying Oversight in Summer Destinations)

The Ministry of Tourism has significantly increased its supervisory efforts in various summer tourist destinations across Saudi Arabia. This intensified oversight aims to ensure that all types of tourism facilities comply with licensing requirements from the Ministry of Tourism. The Ministry also focuses on verifying the quality of services provided to tourists and visitors, both within and outside the Kingdom.

These enhanced regulatory measures coincide with the start of the summer season, reflecting the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining high standards of service and guest satisfaction. The supervisory tours include monitoring fieldwork, ensuring adherence to regulations, checking general cleanliness, confirming the readiness of prayer facilities for women, and verifying the availability of Quran copies and other essential provisions, alongside addressing technical and administrative needs.

بين الصواريخ والخرائط.. تساؤلات استراتيجية حول أبعاد الحرب الإسرائيلية – الإيرانية (Between Missiles and Maps.. Strategic Questions on the Dimensions of the Israeli-Iranian War)

The Israeli-Iranian conflict is viewed as a new chapter in the global struggle for influence in a rapidly changing world, raising critical strategic questions. It extends beyond a direct confrontation between Tehran and Tel Aviv, encompassing economic interests and geopolitical calculations that involve hidden hands benefiting from the ongoing destruction. The article questions whether the U.S. aims to establish a new reality in the Middle East to counter China and Russia’s influence, reasserting American dominance through military means.

The author highlights that despite the “din of weapons,” choices remain, ranging from continued escalation involving regional and international powers to diplomatic mediation that saves face for all parties. The prolonged conflict, impacting global oil prices and increasing market uncertainty, might be exploited for strategic gains by various actors. The fundamental question remains whether the world is witnessing the birth of a new multipolar global order or a final attempt by major powers to maintain their dominance, urging Arab nations to deeply discuss their position amidst these accelerating transformations.

الذهب ينخفض مع ارتفاع الدولار وترقب تطور توترات الشرق الأوسط (Gold Falls as Dollar Rises Amid Anticipation of Middle East Tensions)

Gold prices have experienced a decline as the dollar strengthens, amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East. The report notes that gold losses occurred in financial markets after the White House indicated that President Donald Trump would not decide on joining the Israeli-Iranian conflict for another 40 days, which helped to dispel fears of supply disruptions. Investors are shifting away from safe-haven assets like gold, looking for opportunities in higher-risk assets such as stocks.

Oil prices, conversely, saw a jump to their highest levels since January following the U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, raising supply concerns. Both Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate futures surged, reflecting heightened anxieties. The market’s positive reaction to the ceasefire news, however, led to an increase in U.S. stock futures. Despite some support from a weakening dollar, investors remained cautious ahead of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony to Congress.

الاستثمار في سوريا (Investment in Syria)

Syria, a highly significant Arab country, is currently facing numerous challenges both internally and externally. Its economy is paralyzed, suffering from widespread destruction and a plundered infrastructure left by the previous regime. The country is further complicated by foreign interventions with diverse ambitions, hindering its stability and preventing external cooperation efforts.

Despite these formidable obstacles, a glimmer of hope appears as the Syrian government, through its wisdom and patience, has managed to avoid deeper conflicts domestically and with neighboring countries. With the assistance of friendly nations, especially Saudi Arabia, sanctions burdening Syria have been lifted, enabling the current government to focus on reconstruction, prioritizing the provision of essential supplies, and fostering mutual gain. This collective Arab effort is deemed vital for Syria’s emergence as a stable and prosperous nation, which would significantly benefit the wider Middle East and its neighbors, including Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq, thereby strengthening Arab national security.

رؤية المملكة 2030: تحويل الأحلام إلى حقائق (Saudi Vision 2030: Turning Dreams into Realities)

Saudi Vision 2030, championed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is transforming the Kingdom, redefining its economic and political landscape and profoundly impacting its identity and public taste. This vision is actively turning aspirations into tangible realities, leading to a noticeable shift where Saudi families are increasingly exploring domestic tourism destinations, discovering the rich geographical and cultural diversity within their own country. This internal exploration is fueled by improved services and competitive prices, fostering a deep sense of belonging and national pride.

The Vision extends beyond economic and infrastructural development to embrace cultural and artistic revitalization, with the Crown Prince showing consistent support for various cultural and artistic endeavors, from local artists’ works to major global performances. This holistic approach not only aims for economic growth but also for human development, cultural flourishing, and societal well-being, transforming the Kingdom into a global cultural and tourism destination that balances authenticity with modernity. The collective efforts of the Saudi people, united by this ambitious vision, are driving unprecedented progress and reaffirming the Kingdom’s position on the global stage.

حكاية مؤرخ رحل: أمين ساعاتي (Story of a Departed Historian: Amin Saati)

The article pays tribute to the late Dr. Amin Saati, a distinguished national scholar and historian who significantly enriched the Saudi sports scene through his extensive writings and books. He was a valued figure who received advanced degrees from top universities and contributed profoundly to various sports capacities, from player to manager, then referee, and finally a sports critic. His memoirs, published in “Al-Sharq Al-Adna” magazine, reflected his journalistic endeavors in Egypt and Syria, where he founded “Al-Rabita Al-Arabiya” and “Al-Kifah” newspapers.

Dr. Saati’s contributions extended to documenting the history of Saudi sports, aspiring for his works to serve as foundational texts for future generations of athletes and enthusiasts. His museum stands as a testament to Saudi sporting achievements across various games. He embodied principles of honesty and truthfulness in his writings, setting an example for others. His passing is a loss to the sports community, and he is remembered for his dedication and intellectual contributions that helped shape the narrative of sports in the Kingdom.

فيصل بن نواف يشهد توقيع مذكرة شراكة لدعم المراكز التأهيلية بسجون الجوف (Faisal bin Nawaf Witnesses Signing of Partnership Agreement to Support Rehabilitation Centers in Al-Jouf Prisons)

Prince Faisal bin Nawaf, Emir of Al-Jouf, witnessed the signing of a partnership agreement aimed at supporting rehabilitation centers within Al-Jouf prisons. This initiative seeks to establish an ideal rehabilitative environment that offers specialized programs for inmates, ensuring their reintegration into society upon release. The agreement also includes provisions for monitoring and caring for individuals recovering from addiction, with the goal of transforming them into productive and active members of the community.

The Emir stressed the urgent implementation of the agreement’s terms to positively impact both inmates and society, aligning with the Ministry of Interior’s broader efforts to promote rehabilitation and sustainable development. This includes the establishment of initiatives like Quran examination committees for prisoners, fostering positive behavioral changes and contributing to societal well-being. This strategic partnership underscores the commitment to human development and community support within the Kingdom’s correctional system.

«الثمالة» و«المغيض».. مقاومة التضاريس الجبلية (“Al-Thumala” and “Al-Mughaid”.. Resisting Mountainous Terrain)

The locations of “Al-Thumala” and “Al-Mughaid” in the ‘Asir region exemplify the historical ingenuity of their inhabitants in resisting harsh mountainous terrain. Ancient civilizations in ‘Asir adapted their building techniques to the environment, using available resources and establishing a unique architectural identity. This adaptability is evident in the structures built to protect agricultural lands and preserve vital water resources.

The article highlights how stones were strategically used to demarcate and retain sections of the steep mountainous land, effectively creating habitable and cultivable areas. This traditional method of land management not only served practical purposes like soil retention and resource preservation but also became a defining feature of the region’s cultural identity, often symbolizing land ownership for families and tribes.

الحكومة الرقمية: عقود الإنفاق وخدمات البنية التحتية (Digital Government: Spending Contracts and Infrastructure Services)

The Digital Government Authority reported that government spending contracts on IT and communications services reached approximately 38 billion riyals in 2024, marking an 18.75% growth compared to 2023. This significant increase reflects the substantial support and attention from the leadership towards the IT sector, recognizing its role as a key enabler of the national economy. The investment aims to boost productivity, enhance government performance efficiency, and improve the experience of beneficiaries of digital services.

The report underscores the digital government’s commitment to financial discipline and optimal resource allocation to support digital transformation projects. This strategic investment in digital infrastructure is crucial for developing advanced services, promoting innovation, and building a robust digital economy. It signifies a dedication to leveraging technology for national development and improving public services.

القطاع غير الربحي: ركيزة للتنمية المستدامة (Non-Profit Sector: Pillar of Sustainable Development)

The non-profit sector is recognized as a crucial pillar for sustainable development, capable of filling significant gaps in social welfare, education, and health. Substantial efforts have been made to empower this sector through initiatives like establishing the National Center for Non-Profit Sector Development and amending legislative regulations to enhance the flexibility of charitable organizations. Furthermore, there’s a strong emphasis on strengthening governance and transparency to boost public trust and encourage individual and business contributions.

To achieve its goals, various ministries are actively creating a supportive environment for the non-profit sector. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, for instance, has developed strategies to expand the volunteer base and facilitate licensing for associations. The Ministry of Education is collaborating with non-profit organizations in educational and training programs, while the Ministry of Health is expanding partnerships with non-profit hospitals, all contributing to enhancing community services and promoting human and cooperative values.

جبر الخواطر (Mending Hearts)

“Mending hearts” is presented as a noble art and virtue that involves alleviating the distress of others, often through simple acts like a kind word or a smile. It is described as a profound human trait that transcends material aid or grand gestures, requiring a conscious heart and a living conscience. This act of emotional support, though seemingly minor, can profoundly impact someone experiencing sadness or vulnerability, making them feel that the world still holds good and they are not alone.

The author emphasizes that mending hearts is not a simple act, but a great power held by those who choose to be a support and mercy to others. It is about listening, containing, and reassuring, conveying that life still holds promise. This concept is crucial in promoting positive human interaction and empathy, reminding individuals that their words and actions can have a lasting positive impact, regardless of their status or power.

سبع مراحل لصناعة كسوة الكعبة بأياد سعودية محترفة (Seven Stages of Manufacturing the Kaaba’s Kiswa by Professional Saudi Hands)

The manufacturing of the Holy Kaaba’s Kiswa (covering) is a meticulous process involving seven distinct stages, carried out by skilled Saudi professionals. This intricate work, which spans from raw material preparation to final assembly, adheres to highest quality standards at every step. The process ensures that all components, inputs, and outputs meet precise quality benchmarks through rigorous inspection.

The Kiswa is replaced annually on the first of Muharram, where the old covering is removed and a new one is installed. This involves individual pieces of the new Kiswa being carefully fitted to each side of the Kaaba, secured to its corners and base, and finally, the curtain for the Kaaba’s door is meticulously attached. This traditional and spiritual craft showcases Saudi expertise and devotion to preserving Islamic heritage.

التبول المتكرر: الأسباب والعلاج (Frequent Urination: Causes and Treatment)

Frequent urination can stem from various causes, including diabetes, as the body tries to eliminate excess glucose through urine. Pregnancy also leads to increased urination due to the growing uterus pressing on the bladder and hormonal changes, especially in early stages. In older men, prostate enlargement is a common cause, as it irritates or compresses the bladder neck. Other factors include bladder inflammation, use of diuretics (medications for high blood pressure or stomach issues), neurological disorders affecting bladder nerves (like strokes), and bladder tumors.

Lifestyle factors also contribute, such as excessive consumption of water, fruits, and caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea, sodas), as well as stress and anxiety, which can trigger immediate and involuntary urination. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause; for diabetes, managing blood sugar is key. General advice includes reducing diuretic foods and drinks, avoiding water before sleep, and bladder retraining exercises to increase intervals between bathroom visits. For prostatic inflammation, antibiotics and other medications may be prescribed, with follow-up imaging to check for abscesses.

كرة القدم الحديثة: عقل بلا قلب (Modern Football: A Mind Without a Heart)

Modern football is undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from its traditional essence of spontaneous joy, individual skills, and impulsive reactions. It has evolved into a highly complex, almost industrial system, dominated by tactical calculations and cold, strategic thinking. This shift has led many fans and analysts to question whether modern football has lost its soul, as the game’s every detail is now meticulously analyzed and controlled.

This mechanical approach appears to swallow any individual opportunities for surprise or improvisation, reducing players to mere cogs in a system. The dominance of tactical frameworks means that spontaneous individual brilliance is less likely to emerge, leading to a perception that the game is becoming predictable and less emotionally engaging. The challenge for football, therefore, is to rebalance the strictness of the system with room for creativity and enjoyment, and to reconcile investment and profit with the sport’s inherent pleasure.

دور النجم الرياضي في المسؤولية الاجتماعية (The Role of the Sports Star in Social Responsibility)

Sports stars are increasingly viewed as social icons and role models for youth, whose influence extends beyond the field of play. Their public conduct and personal discipline are crucial, as their ethical behavior impacts millions of fans who follow them through club and national team representations. Therefore, any ethical transgressions by a star can deeply affect their adoring supporters.

This highlights the significant social responsibility that accompanies athletic fame, emphasizing that a star’s success is not merely personal but contributes to collective inspiration. Their stories become motivational narratives that encourage young people to pursue their dreams, making the star an ambassador of positive values and a beacon of hope for their communities.

صناعة السيارات في المملكة: رؤية شاملة (Car Manufacturing in the Kingdom: A Comprehensive Vision)

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a major economic transformation within its Vision 2030, with car manufacturing as a cornerstone of its new industrial vision based on sustainability, innovation, and sovereignty. This industry is seen not just as a means of transport but as a marker of national economic capability to keep pace with the future, shifting from a consumer market to an integrated local industry producing smart electric vehicles. The Kingdom is investing heavily in this sector, supported by the Public Investment Fund and the Ministry of Industry, establishing mega-industrial complexes like King Salman Car Complex and developing extensive charging networks and R&D centers.

A key aspect of this transformation is the empowerment of Saudi women, who are playing a pioneering role in promoting sustainable mobility and contributing actively to technological development through specializations in mechanical and electrical engineering, programming, AI, and materials science. Despite challenges like the shortage of specialized national competencies and reliance on imported components, the Kingdom’s strong financial backing and strategic partnerships with global automotive giants like Foxconn and BMW are driving progress. The goal is to build a competitive, self-reliant industry that diversifies the economy, creates jobs, reduces reliance on oil, and fosters local innovation while adhering to environmental sustainability goals.

الفنون الشعبية: امتداد للتراث (Popular Arts: An Extension of Heritage)

Popular arts in Saudi Arabia are a living extension of its rich heritage, embodying the values, customs, and sense of national identity within successive generations. These traditional art forms, like the Saudi Ardah (a recognized official art form often performed at weddings), the Samri of Unaizah, and the Al-Mizmar dance of Hejaz, are deeply embedded in societal celebrations and cultural expressions. They serve as a vital means of preserving cultural memory and bridging the gap between past and present, connecting younger generations to their roots.

Organizations such as the Society for Culture and Arts are dedicated to preserving and promoting these folk arts, ensuring their continued presence and evolution. These artistic expressions are not merely entertainment but reflect the collective consciousness, thoughts, and behaviors of the community. Through their continued practice and display, traditional arts contribute to reinforcing Saudi identity and showcasing its unique cultural richness to the world.

الشعر في الأدب العربي (Poetry in Arabic Literature)

Poetry is a fundamental form of expression in Arabic literature, aiming to convey both meaning and profound emotion. A successful poet must possess a rich imagination, control of language, and a deep cultural and intellectual reservoir to craft verses that resonate deeply. The sources provide various examples of poetic expression, from lines expressing longing and regret to those conveying pride and ambition, emphasizing how emotion adds a timeless quality to words.

The snippets feature several poetic works, including “Oh God, for Sustenance Whose Lightning Flashes in the Darkness”, “My Tears Dried as I Wept for You”, and “Sleeplessness and Tears”. These poems often tackle themes of human suffering, resilience, hope, and faith, using vivid imagery and emotional depth. They also reflect on significant national events like the Hajj, celebrating its ease and joy. The continuity of poetic tradition is highlighted through initiatives like “Verse of the Week” sections in publications, encouraging ongoing engagement with poetry.

أكلات شعبية: البليلة (Popular Foods: Balilah)

Balilah, a popular traditional dish, is recognized as a beautiful food and a cherished heritage, passed down through generations from grandfathers to fathers and then to sons. This simple yet significant food item represents a cultural inheritance, connecting families and communities through shared culinary traditions.

The mention of Balilah in the source suggests its importance as a symbol of continuity and a link to the past, highlighting how traditional foods contribute to the rich tapestry of Saudi culture. It indicates that such items are not merely sustenance but carry sentimental and historical value, embodying family history and communal bonds.

مرور العام: الإنجاز والتأمل (The Passing Year: Achievement and Reflection)

The passing of a year is presented as a significant unit of time for assessing achievements and reflecting on one’s progress. It serves as a metric by which a wise individual should not allow a year to pass without notable accomplishments, striving to grow in their positive attributes, strengthen community bonds, and deepen devotion to their homeland and leadership. This reflection encourages individuals to analyze their accomplishments, acquire knowledge, and learn from past mistakes to ensure greater success in the future.

The concept extends to the national level, where Saudi Arabia views the passing of a year not as aging, but as strides forward on the path of progress and prosperity. The past year is seen as a period of significant achievement, especially in realizing the Kingdom’s ambitious vision under the leadership of the Crown Prince, leading to advancements and a sense of pride among its people. This continuous pursuit of progress underscores a commitment to serving humanity, fostering culture, and promoting innovation.

الذكرى الثامنة لبيعة ولي العهد: الثقافة والفنون (Eighth Anniversary of Crown Prince’s Pledge: Culture and Arts)

The eighth anniversary of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s pledge of allegiance is highlighted through the lens of culture and arts, emphasizing his role in transforming Saudi Arabia beyond traditional sectors. His leadership is characterized by a deep personal appreciation for the arts, which has translated into tangible support for various cultural and artistic initiatives across the Kingdom. This includes the government’s continuous backing of cultural institutions, the display of Saudi artists’ works in official offices, and efforts to preserve architectural identity.

The Crown Prince’s vision emphasizes integrating culture as a central component of national projects, viewing it as a powerful tool for building Saudi identity and shaping the Kingdom’s image globally. His insistence on global performances by Saudi orchestras exemplifies a strategic move to project a modern and authentic Saudi narrative on the world stage. This approach aims to create a balanced blend of modernity and authenticity, utilizing culture as a bridge for dialogue with the world and a means to build the nation with confidence and pride.

مركز إثراء ودعم الحرف (Ithra Center and Craft Support)

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) actively participates in international events, such as the “Concéntrico” International Festival for Architecture and Design in Logroño, Spain. Ithra contributed a participatory installation inspired by Saudi agricultural heritage, crafted by “In.kal” studio. This involvement demonstrates Ithra’s commitment to fostering positive impact and creative exchange within the global cultural scene.

As a cultural destination, Ithra promotes the revival of traditional crafts, notably through the “Sadu” weaving technique, which has been recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. This focus aims to reconnect generations with authentic artistic heritage and contribute to the spread of visual aesthetics through quality training programs, fostering local talent and enriching the community. Ithra’s broader mission includes translating prestigious international works into Arabic to enrich local intellectual content and open new windows to global thought, promoting Saudi Arabia’s intellectual and creative wealth beyond its oil resources.

«أميركا بلهجتنا»: بودكاست لتفسير السياسة (America in Our Dialect: A Podcast for Explaining Politics)

“America in Our Dialect” is a new podcast launched from Washington D.C. that aims to present American politics in a more accessible and relatable manner for Arab audiences, using various regional Arabic dialects. The podcast’s goal is to break away from traditional reporting styles by humanizing political affairs, making them directly touch the audience before analytical interpretation.

Hiba Nasr, the head of the Washington office for the channel, stated that the podcast’s approach is “from heart to heart,” striving to convey the American reality as it is perceived and felt, rather than just relaying headlines. This initiative focuses on offering deeper insights and emotional engagement with political events, avoiding superficial analysis or a race for breaking news, and instead focusing on authentic understanding.

كتابة البحث العلمي: مبادئ وتجارب (Writing Scientific Research: Principles and Experiences)

The book “Writing Scientific Research: Principles, Perspectives, and Experiences” emphasizes that the writer’s primary goal is to convey intended meaning, asserting that any hollow statement without meaning is a waste of effort. The author, through a personal and spontaneous writing style, comments on news and events, presenting concise stories that offer quick access to core ideas.

The book is described as a garden of diverse plants and flowers, where the reader encounters themes of love, war, education, art, and administrative insights, drawing from both Arab and Western cultures. It delves into the importance of meaning, creativity, language flexibility, endurance, rhetorical culture, and intellectual depth in writing. The author believes that a strong literary product creates powerful journalism, highlighting the need for journalistic platforms to value authentic journalistic work.

لقاءات الأدب والنشر والترجمة (Literature, Publishing, and Translation Meetings)

The Literary Authority hosted a meeting as part of its interactive series for those interested in literature, publishing, and translation. The discussions focused on advancing literary works, strengthening the publishing industry, and exploring development avenues to ensure cultural sustainability. Key aspects included promoting quality initiatives, supporting cultural institutions, and empowering publishing houses.

The meeting also addressed the criteria for selecting award winners, emphasizing the quality of implemented events, adherence to cultural values, focus on innovation, and commitment to national identity and promising talents. This ongoing series of meetings fosters open communication between the Authority and stakeholders, aiming to enhance the literary and publishing landscape through strategic partnerships and support for Saudi authors.

اللغة العربية مقابل اللغة الإنجليزية (Arabic vs. English)

The article delves into the concept of “ghirah” (jealousy/zeal) in language, drawing parallels with its religious and human contexts. It questions whether language itself can express this intense feeling, especially when comparing Arabic to English. The text suggests that emotions and honesty flow more naturally in one’s mother tongue, likening it to acting comfortably and spontaneously within one’s own home.

The author explains that early linguistic usage of “wujood” (existence) meant “manifestation of sorrow/passion” and not merely “presence in a place”. This distinction highlights the semantic depth of classical Arabic compared to modern, more literal usage. While modern colloquial and even some official media use the word differently, the article asserts that genuine understanding and expression often revert to the nuanced, authentic usage inherent in one’s primary language.

نسقنا الروائي: تحليل أعمال أدبية (Our Narrative Style: Analysis of Literary Works)

This section presents a critical analysis of several significant Arabic novels, exploring their narrative styles and thematic depth. Works discussed include “Alliyat Trabuko Teran” by a Spanish author, which serves as a historical testament to a period of oppression and suffering in Chile, narrated through the perspective of an accountant tasked with tallying the dead. “Anbinuni Bil Ru’ya” by Abdel Fattah Kilito delves into “One Thousand and One Nights,” inviting readers on a journey through classical heritage and its interpretations.

Laila Baalbaki’s “Ana Ahya” (I Live) is noted as a timeless contemporary novel, depicting Lebanese society with its unchanging realities and recurring narratives, reflecting the author’s personal struggle for salvation. “Death is a Hard Work” by Khaled Khalifa portrays the harsh realities of a country living under the shadow of death, emphasizing the absurdity of daily life amidst conflict and the continuous struggle for survival. Lastly, Abdelhamid Ben Hadouga’s “South Wind,” considered the first Algerian novel written in Arabic, focuses on the profound influence of place on character behavior and emotions, making the setting a driving force of the narrative.

الحدث السياسي وفوضى تلقي الأخبار (The Political Event and the Chaos of News Reception)

In an era dominated by rapid news dissemination and emotional media, understanding political events, conflicts, and wars requires deep and systematic awareness. The contemporary media landscape is characterized by an overwhelming flow of fast-breaking news, dramatic visuals, and emotionally charged headlines, which can induce mental fatigue and a false sense of comprehensive understanding in the recipient. This chaotic influx often presents fragmented or biased narratives, manipulating public perception rather than conveying objective truth.

To navigate this, the article proposes “reception etiquette”, a set of mental and cognitive behaviors for audiences seeking deeper understanding beyond emotional reactions. Key principles include verifying sources, comparing news from multiple agencies, understanding political and geographical contexts, avoiding sensationalism and fear-mongering, and distinguishing between opinion and factual news. It also advises against excessive engagement with distressing content, encouraging limited exposure, balancing news consumption with positive content, and seeking emotional support if needed. Ultimately, the audience is urged to cultivate critical thinking, actively resisting misinformation and contributing to a more informed and calm public discourse.

اضبطوا ساعاتكم على الرياض (Set Your Clocks to Riyadh)

The article encourages a focus on Riyadh as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s rapid progress and transformation. It suggests that the Kingdom is moving at an accelerated pace, implying that those wishing to keep up with its developments should align themselves with Riyadh’s energetic rhythm. This reflects a dynamic and forward-looking national agenda, aiming for continuous advancement and innovation across various sectors.

The phrase can be interpreted as a call to action for internal and external stakeholders to recognize and adapt to the Kingdom’s evolving landscape. It embodies the confidence and ambition driving Saudi Arabia’s initiatives, portraying Riyadh as the epicenter of this ambitious trajectory.

القيادة تهنئ أمير قطر ورؤساء الدول (Leadership Congratulates Emir of Qatar and Heads of State)

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, extended congratulations to the Emir of Qatar on the anniversary of his assumption of power. They expressed their best wishes for his health, happiness, and for the continued progress and prosperity of Qatar and its people. This highlights the strong fraternal ties and diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Similarly, the Saudi leadership also sent messages of congratulations to the Presidents of Croatia, Mozambique, and Slovenia on their respective National Days and Independence Day anniversaries. These messages reiterated wishes for the leaders’ health and happiness, and for the ongoing progress and prosperity of their friendly nations and peoples. Such diplomatic gestures underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening international relations and fostering global cooperation.

مبادرة «ميسن بوسيبيل» والتحول الصناعي العالمي (“Mission Possible” Initiative and Global Industrial Transformation)

The “Mission Possible” initiative, particularly its Industrial Transition Accelerator, highlights how emerging industrial nations are poised to surpass major industrial powers due to their advantageous conditions, especially in the clean energy revolution. This transformation is reshaping the global industrial landscape, with a shift in the geographical locations for raw material, fuel, and chemical production, leading to the formation of new trade routes and industrial belts in emerging markets.

Cristiana Figueres of “Optimism” emphasized that this industrial revolution offers developing economies a unique opportunity to bypass fossil fuels in heavy industry and transportation, enabling them to build sustainable economic growth. Governments are encouraged to implement policies like carbon pricing programs and create supportive entities to capitalize on these growing economic opportunities, driving investment in environmentally friendly industries and fostering sustainable industrial growth.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: A National Transformation

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is an ambitious strategic framework aimed at transforming the country across various sectors, reducing its reliance on oil, and building a prosperous, sustainable, and innovative future. It is described as a comprehensive national transformation driven by wise leadership.

Here are the key details and objectives of Vision 2030:

I. Core Principles and Goals:

• Economic Diversification: A primary aim is to transform the economy from hydrocarbon dependence to a sustainable industrial and developmental force. This involves diversifying income sources and reducing reliance on oil.
• Quality of Life: Enhance quality of life for citizens, residents, and visitors. This is often tied to urban development, infrastructure, and access to services.
• Global Position: Solidify the Kingdom’s regional and global standing as an economic, cultural, and political power.
• Human Capital Development: Invest in and empower national cadres, especially youth, to be the engine of change and innovation.
• Sustainability: Emphasize environmental sustainability as a core tenet, with significant initiatives in green finance and renewable energy.

II. Key Sectors and Initiatives:

• Tourism:
• Goal: Increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from 3% to over 10% by 2030.
• Visitor Numbers: Aim to attract over 100 million visitors annually (local and international) by 2030. In 2023, the Kingdom recorded 100 million visits, with 79-81 million domestic visits from citizens. In 2024, total visits reached 115.9 million, solidifying tourism’s role as a fundamental economic pillar. International visitor numbers reached 29.7 million in 2024, a 8% increase from 2023.
• Investment: The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has financed over 2,400 direct and indirect tourism projects worth over 35 billion Saudi riyals.
• Mega-Projects: Development of advanced tourism infrastructure, including NEOM, Qiddiya, Red Sea, Amaala, Diriyah Gate, Souda, and Historic Jeddah.
• Cultural & Entertainment Events: Expansion of entertainment and cultural events across various regions (e.g., Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, AlUla, Abha).
• Citizen Role: Saudi citizens are considered the heart of domestic tourism and a key partner in crafting the tourism experience, forming a strong local market.
• Heritage Preservation: Restoration of historical and archaeological sites, castles, and palaces. Promotion of national heritage internationally, exemplified by “Saudi Coffee Year,” “Arabic Calligraphy Year,” and “Handicrafts Year”.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Transformation:
• Investment: Global AI investment is expected to reach $202 billion by 2028, with 32% of this from the Gulf region.
• Adoption: 80% of organizations globally are expected to adopt AI by 2026.
• Government Services: SDAIA leverages AI and data-driven technologies to empower government entities and enhance the efficiency of services, aligning with Vision 2030.
• Cybersecurity: Over 54 million hacking attempts were thwarted in H1 2024, emphasizing the need for robust information security.
• Youth Engagement: Saudi youth are noted as major users and drivers of smart technologies, indicating future societal focus on this area.
• Green Finance & Environmental Sustainability:
• Commitment: Achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
• Green Bonds/Sukuk: Issuances increased from $1 billion in 2019 to nearly $8 billion in 2023. The Kingdom’s first sovereign green bond was issued in early 2025.
• Renewable Energy: Target to increase renewable energy production to 58.7 gigawatts by 2030 (about half of current electricity generation capacity).
• Mega-Projects: NEOM, designed with sustainability principles, secured $8 billion in financing for a green hydrogen project in 2023, the largest in the region’s history.
• Emissions Reduction: Aim to reduce carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually by 2030.
• Protected Areas: Target to protect 30% of land and marine areas by 2030 (30×30 target) as part of the Saudi Green Initiative.
• Industrial Sector (Manufacturing, especially Automotive):
• Goal: Become a regional hub for car manufacturing, particularly electric vehicles (EVs), by 2030 and 2035.
• Investment: PIF plans to invest at least $35 billion in EV industry by 2030 (50% manufacturing, 25% batteries, 25% chips/spare parts).
• Production Targets: Produce 500,000 electric vehicles annually by 2030. Lucid Motors aims for 150,000 cars annually in the Kingdom. Hyundai Motor aims for 50,000 vehicles annually.
• Localization: Successful localization of operations for over four leading OEMs and seven suppliers. Development of a national car brand, “Ceer,” which will contribute $8 billion to GDP by 2034 and create 30,000 jobs.
• Infrastructure: Plan for 5,000 EV charging stations by 2030.
• Talent Development: Programs to educate local talents in automotive engineering, battery technology, and production management.
• Economic Impact: The sector is expected to grow by 12% annually in the automotive sector, supporting GDP and creating thousands of jobs.
• Healthcare:
• Innovation: King Faisal Specialist Hospital’s leading role in medical innovation and biotechnology aligns with Vision 2030 and the National Biotechnology Strategy. It ranks among the top 250 global academic health institutions.
• Community Health: Efforts to enhance blood donation culture are part of Vision 2030’s health system support and community participation goals.
• Infrastructure and Urban Development:
• Roads: Aim to rank among the top 5 globally in road quality by 2030.
• Public Spaces: Increase per capita public space from 4.45 m² (2022) to 6.21 m² (2024), and access to public places by walking from 23% to 49%. These efforts align with Vision 2030 goals to build more vibrant cities and enhance quality of life.
• Riyadh Metro: The project facilitates mobility and raises quality of life, supporting Riyadh’s goal of becoming one of the best cities to live in globally.
• Housing: Vision 2030 aims to improve collective housing quality and eliminate informal settlements by 2028.
• Sports and eSports:
• Hosting Events: The Kingdom is becoming a regional and international hub for major sports events, including hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034. It will be the largest edition with 48 teams across five cities.
• eSports World Cup: Riyadh will host the Esports World Cup 2025, the largest event in eSports history, with 25 global tournaments, 24 games, $70 million prize pool, and over 2,000 players from 200 clubs across 100 countries. This is also an ambition to host the Olympic eSports Games in 2027.
• Non-Profit Sector:
• Goal: Increase the non-profit sector’s contribution to GDP from less than 1% to 5% by 2030.
• Impact: This sector is seen as a fundamental pillar for sustainable development and a vibrant society.

III. Implementation and Impact:

• Vision 2030 is viewed not merely as a dream, but as a reality being embodied in concrete achievements across various fields, with positive effects appearing rapidly.
• It involves a comprehensive investment approach, enhancing large projects across the country to drive national economic transformation.
• The Crown Prince is consistently described as the “architect” or “engineer” of Vision 2030, leading with determination and inspiring transformative changes.
• The Vision is structured into three main segments: a prosperous economy, an ambitious society, and a thriving nation, with programs expected to conclude in 2030.
• Key indicators of success include rising non-oil revenues (175% growth by end of 2023, target 4.9 trillion riyals by 2030), increased overall tourism spending, and significant global recognition in various sectors.
• The vision is built on a clear strategic direction, legislative reforms, and systematic investment in human capital.

In essence, Vision 2030 is portrayed as a holistic and ambitious national blueprint guiding Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive transformation across economic, social, cultural, and environmental dimensions, with a strong focus on diversification, quality of life, and global leadership.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Diversification and Transformation

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is a foundational strategic framework designed to transform the country’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil, positioning it as a sustainable industrial and developmental force [I]. This ambitious undertaking is impacting various sectors across the Kingdom through comprehensive diversification efforts.

Here’s how these efforts are impacting different sectors:

• Tourism Sector:
• Goal: A primary objective is to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from 3% to over 10% by 2030 [I].
• Visitor Numbers: The Kingdom aimed to attract over 100 million visitors annually (both domestic and international) by 2030. In 2023, Saudi Arabia recorded 100 million visits, with 79-81 million of those being domestic visits from citizens [I, 2, 22]. By 2024, total visits reached 115.9 million, reinforcing tourism’s role as a vital economic pillar, and international visitor numbers increased by 8% from 2023, reaching 29.7 million [I].
• Investment & Infrastructure: Significant investment has been made in advanced tourism infrastructure and mega-projects, including NEOM, Qiddiya, Red Sea, Amaala, Diriyah Gate, Souda, and Historic Jeddah [I, 3, 6, 9]. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has financed over 2,400 direct and indirect tourism projects, exceeding 35 billion Saudi riyals [I, 9].
• Cultural & Entertainment Events: The expansion of entertainment and cultural events, such as Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, and initiatives in AlUla and Abha, has contributed to a consistent growth in domestic tourism [I, 3].
• Heritage & Promotion: Efforts include restoring historical and archaeological sites, preserving national heritage (e.g., “Saudi Coffee Year,” “Arabic Calligraphy Year”), and promoting them internationally [I, 3, 4, 15, 17, 92, 155].
• Global Recognition: The Kingdom is described by Forbes magazine as “the next must-watch tourism destination” and has seen high ratings for sites like Historic Jeddah and Mada’in Salih on TripAdvisor. The World Economic Forum (WEF) Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2024 revealed Saudi Arabia’s progress in its tourism competitiveness index, entering the top 20 globally in tourism safety.
• Citizen Engagement: Saudi citizens are seen as the “heart of domestic tourism” and active participants, driving demand and acting as local content creators and ambassadors for various regions through social media [I, 2, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23].
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Transformation:
• Growth: Global AI investment is projected to reach $202 billion by 2028, with 32% of this coming from the Gulf region [I].
• Adoption: 80% of organizations globally are expected to adopt AI by 2026, with a further 50% adopting specialized models by 2027 [I, 76].
• Government & Cybersecurity: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) uses AI and data technologies to empower government entities and enhance service efficiency [I, 124]. Over 54 million hacking attempts were thwarted in the first half of 2024, highlighting the need for robust information security [I].
• Youth as Drivers: Saudi youth are noted as significant users and drivers of smart technologies, particularly those aged 9-29, indicating a future societal focus on this area [I, 97]. The government’s investment in IT contracts reached 38 billion riyals in 2024, a 18.75% increase from 2023, underlining commitment to digital transformation.
• Green Finance and Environmental Sustainability:
• Carbon Neutrality: The Kingdom is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060 [I].
• Green Bonds/Sukuk: Green bond issuances have grown from $1 billion in 2019 to nearly $8 billion in 2023, with the first sovereign green bond expected in early 2025 [I, 28].
• Renewable Energy: The target is to increase renewable energy production to 58.7 gigawatts by 2030, which would cover about half of the current electricity generation capacity [I, 29].
• Emissions Reduction: Saudi Arabia aims to reduce carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually by 2030 [I].
• Protected Areas: A goal to protect 30% of land and marine areas by 2030 (the “30×30 target”) is part of the Saudi Green Initiative [I, 240].
• Sustainable Projects: NEOM, a mega-project, secured $8 billion in financing for a green hydrogen project in 2023, the largest in the region’s history, showcasing commitment to sustainable development [I]. Investment in clean technologies is projected to reach $2.2 trillion globally this year, with Saudi Arabia focusing on solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear energy.
• Industrial Sector (Manufacturing, especially Automotive):
• Automotive Hub: Saudi Arabia aims to become a regional hub for car manufacturing, particularly electric vehicles (EVs), by 2030 and 2035 [I, 337].
• Investment & Production: The PIF plans to invest at least $35 billion in the EV industry by 2030, with a goal to produce 500,000 electric vehicles annually by 2030 [I, 334]. Companies like Lucid Motors aim for 150,000 cars annually, and Hyundai Motor for 50,000 [I].
• Localization: The Kingdom has successfully localized operations for over four leading OEMs and seven suppliers [I, 329]. A national car brand, “Ceer,” is being developed, projected to contribute $8 billion to GDP by 2034 and create 30,000 direct and indirect jobs [I, 329].
• Infrastructure: Plans include 5,000 EV charging stations by 2030 [I].
• Talent Development: Programs are in place to educate local talents in automotive engineering, battery technology, and production management, with international training opportunities for Saudi students and engineers [I, 334, 342].
• Economic Impact: The sector is expected to grow by 12% annually, significantly boosting GDP and creating numerous jobs [I, 328, 334]. The transformation moves the Kingdom from being merely a consumer market to a producer and exporter of vehicles.
• Healthcare Sector:
• Medical Innovation: King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) is leading in medical innovation and biotechnology, aligning with Vision 2030 and the National Biotechnology Strategy [I, 124, 125]. It is recognized among the top 250 global academic health institutions [I, 126].
• Public Health: Initiatives like enhancing blood donation culture are part of Vision 2030’s goals for health system support and community participation [I].
• Infrastructure and Urban Development:
• Roads: The goal is to rank among the top 5 globally in road quality by 2030 [I, 173]. Projects aim to improve road safety and maintain high quality and capacity.
• Public Spaces & Quality of Life: Efforts are underway to increase per capita public space and access to public places by walking [I, 180, 187]. Projects like the Riyadh Metro facilitate mobility and enhance quality of life, supporting Riyadh’s aim to be a leading global city [I].
• Housing: Vision 2030 seeks to improve collective housing quality and eliminate informal settlements by 2028 [I, 143].
• Sports and eSports:
• Global Hub: The Kingdom is becoming a significant regional and international hub for major sports events, including hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034 [I, 50, 51].
• eSports World Cup: Riyadh will host the Esports World Cup 2025, described as the largest eSports event in history, with 25 global tournaments, 24 games, a $70 million prize pool, and over 2,000 players from 200 clubs across 100 countries. There’s also an ambition to host the Olympic eSports Games in 2027 [I, 50, 51].
• Non-Profit Sector:
• Contribution to GDP: Vision 2030 aims to significantly increase the non-profit sector’s contribution to GDP from less than 1% to 5% by 2030 [I, 314]. This sector is viewed as crucial for sustainable development and building a vibrant society [I].
• Overall Economic Impact & Investment:
• Vision 2030 is viewed as a comprehensive blueprint yielding rapid, concrete achievements [I].
• Non-Oil Revenue Growth: Non-oil revenues have seen a 175% growth by the end of 2023, with a target of 4.9 trillion riyals by 2030 [I, 191]. The non-oil GDP is projected to grow by 5.2% in 2025.
• Investment Landscape: The Kingdom has established an investment system, and the number of companies headquartered there has reached nearly 600. Overall investment has doubled, contributing to significant progress and prosperity. Foreign direct investment is seen as a key component of this growth.
• Global Trust: The Kingdom’s political stability and diplomatic approach, avoiding impulsive actions, contribute to its growing international presence and trust. This has resulted in positive investor sentiment, with agencies like Standard & Poor’s upgrading Saudi Arabia’s credit rating.

These comprehensive efforts highlight Saudi Arabia’s determined move towards a diversified, sustainable, and innovation-driven economy, moving beyond its historical reliance on oil [I, 9, 24, 332, 339].

Saudi Vision 2030: Human Capital and National Identity

Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030 are deeply intertwined with the development of human capital and the promotion of national identity. These initiatives aim to create a skilled workforce, foster innovation, and preserve the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage as it transitions to a knowledge-based economy [I].

Here’s a comprehensive look at the initiatives being undertaken:

I. Human Capital Development Initiatives:

Efforts are focused on equipping Saudi citizens, particularly the youth, with the necessary skills for a diversified and advanced economy, and fostering entrepreneurship and employment across various sectors:

• Talent Development and Training:
• Tourism: The government provides support and training programs for citizens, especially hundreds of thousands of Saudi women, to work in the tourism sector, aiming to localize 30-38% of jobs annually [I, 2, 13].
• Automotive Industry: Programs are in place to educate local talents in automotive engineering, battery technology, and production management, including international training opportunities for Saudi students and engineers. This aims to support the goal of producing 500,000 electric vehicles annually by 2030 [I, 334, 342].
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Transformation: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) leverages AI and data technologies to empower government entities and enhance service efficiency [I, 124]. Saudi youth, particularly those aged 9-29, are significant users and drivers of smart technologies [I, 97], with initiatives like the “Samai” national platform guiding Saudi youth to register and join learning journeys to benefit from AI applications [I, 179].
• Healthcare: King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) is at the forefront of medical innovation and biotechnology, aligning with the National Biotechnology Strategy [I, 124, 125]. It’s ranked among the top global academic health institutions, emphasizing its role in developing high-level medical expertise [I, 126].
• Freelance Work: The “Future of Work” company, established in 2020 under the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, promotes modern and non-traditional work patterns like freelance and remote work. By September 2024, its freelance platform registered over 2.25 million individuals, reflecting growing interest in these flexible work models [I, 14].
• Higher Education:King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals has significantly improved its global ranking, reaching 67th worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2025. This reflects its strategic transformation since 2020, focusing on self-reliance, research, teamwork, and entrepreneurship among students [I, 50, 51, 52].
• Taif University entered the QS World University Rankings for the first time in the 901-950 range for 2026, driven by its focus on research, innovation, and academic excellence [I, 170, 171].
• General Employment: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development focuses on enhancing the role of human capital in the public sector, fostering a work environment that promotes initiative and belonging, and improving the quality of services [I, 118]. The Human Resources Development Fund contributed to the employment of 143,000 citizens and supported over 1.18 million beneficiaries through training and empowerment programs in the first quarter of 2025 [I, 222]. The Saudi unemployment rate among Saudis reached a historical low of 7% by the end of 2024, surpassing Vision 2030 targets [I, 269].
• Investment in Skills and Infrastructure: The government’s investment in IT contracts reached 38 billion Saudi Riyals in 2024, an 18.75% increase from 2023, underscoring its commitment to digital transformation and supporting the national economy [I, 261]. Initiatives also include developing local consulting expertise, aiming to enhance the Kingdom’s competitiveness in global markets [I, 142].

II. National Identity Promotion Initiatives:

Saudi Arabia is actively promoting its unique cultural identity and heritage to both its citizens and the world:

• Cultural Revival and Preservation:
• Historical and Archaeological Sites: There’s a strong focus on restoring historical and archaeological sites and preserving national heritage [I, 3, 4, 92]. Examples include initiatives like the “Saudi Coffee Year” and “Arabic Calligraphy Year” [I, 15, 17, 92, 155], promoting them internationally [I, 3, 4, 92].
• Mega-projects: Projects like Diriyah Gate are designed as luxury tourism destinations that reflect the Kingdom’s authentic heritage [I, 3, 4].
• Cultural Awards: The Ministry of Culture launched the fifth edition of the “National Cultural Awards” to honor creators and their achievements across various cultural production paths, emphasizing the Kingdom’s growing role as an “oasis of arts, culture, and literature” [I, 92, 34].
• Traditional Arts and Crafts: The craft of Al Sadu weaving is highlighted as a prominent traditional craft embodying Bedouin life, and 2025 has been designated as the Year of Handicrafts to celebrate traditional skills and revive them with a contemporary spirit [I, 206]. Architectural heritage, such as the unique “Al-Rawashin” wooden designs in Medina, is also being emphasized as a reflection of Saudi architecture [I, 240].
• Literature and Publishing: Efforts include translating prestigious global works into Arabic and vice-versa to enrich knowledge content and open new windows to global thought, presenting a new image of the Kingdom to the world based on its intellectual and creative wealth [I, 34, 207].
• Showcasing Saudi Culture on a Global Stage:
• Tourism as a Global Destination: With the completion of major tourism and entertainment projects (like NEOM, Qiddiya, Red Sea, Amaala, and Diriyah Gate), Saudi Arabia is expected to become a global tourism destination, offering a unique blend of authenticity and modernity [I, 3, 5, 6]. The Kingdom aims to attract over 100 million visitors annually by 2030 [I, 4, 8].
• Sports and Esports: Hosting major international sports events, notably the FIFA World Cup 2034, and the Esports World Cup 2025 in Riyadh (described as the largest esports event in history with a $70 million prize pool), contributes significantly to global recognition and national pride [I, 50, 51, 164].
• Camel Heritage: The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture emphasizes the preservation and development of camel heritage, considering it a national strength and a key partner in comprehensive development goals for Vision 2030 [I, 174].

These efforts reflect a holistic strategy to build a future-ready Saudi Arabia, characterized by a skilled and productive population proud of its unique identity, and contributing actively on the global stage [I, 9, 309, 310, 332].

Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Ascendance: Vision 2030’s Economic Transformation

Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is undergoing a profound transformation, evolving from a minor economic contributor to a major pillar of the national economy, driven largely by the ambitious Vision 2030.

Here’s how tourism is being transformed in Saudi Arabia:

• Strategic Economic Diversification and Growth:
• The primary goal is to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil, with tourism aiming to contribute more than 10% to the GDP by 2030, a significant increase from 3%.
• This transformation is expected to generate 1 million direct and indirect jobs in the tourism sector by 2030.
• The government has recognized tourism as a strategic industry and a key economic driver, investing billions of dollars into the sector. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) alone has financed over 2,400 direct and indirect tourism projects worth over 35 billion Saudi Riyals.
• Development of Mega-Projects and Destinations:
• The Kingdom is developing massive tourism and entertainment projects that are set to make it a global destination. These include:
• NEOM (including Sindalah).
• Qiddiya as a capital for entertainment, arts, and sports.
• The Red Sea Project and Amaala for luxury sustainable tourism.
• Diriyah Gate, designed to reflect authentic heritage as a luxury tourism destination.
• The Riyadh Boulevard offers modern entertainment and cultural events.
• These projects are designed to offer unique experiences blending authenticity with modernity.
• Enhancement of Infrastructure and Connectivity:
• Significant investments have been made in improving roads, transportation networks, airports, and ports, expanding the capacity of tourist cities.
• King Fahd International Airport, for instance, achieved the top rank in operational performance standards among international airports in its category.
• The Riyadh Metro project was inaugurated to improve mobility for residents and visitors, aligning with Vision 2030’s quality of life objectives.
• Boosting Domestic Tourism and Cultural Awareness:
• Saudi Arabia has seen a continuous growth in domestic visitor numbers due to the expansion of entertainment and cultural events in various regions and governorates, such as Riyadh Season, AlUla, and Jeddah.
• The Ministry of Tourism has launched initiatives to encourage citizens and residents to explore the Kingdom’s diverse natural and historical treasures.
• There’s a strong focus on restoring historical and archaeological sites and preserving national heritage. Initiatives like “Saudi Coffee Year” and “Arabic Calligraphy Year” promote cultural elements. In 2025, the Year of Handicrafts will celebrate traditional skills like Al Sadu weaving.
• Citizens are becoming “local tourism ambassadors” by creating content and promoting lesser-known tourist areas through social media.
• Development of Human Capital for Tourism:
• There’s an emphasis on training national cadres and specialists in tourism services, including professional tour guiding, hotel hospitality, and heritage restoration skills.
• Programs are in place to support and train citizens, including hundreds of thousands of Saudi women, to work in the tourism sector, with a goal of localizing 30-38% of jobs annually [I, 2, 13].
• The government recognizes the need to enhance the role of human capital in the public sector, creating a work environment that encourages initiative and belonging [I, 118].
• Global Recognition and Visitor Numbers:
• Saudi Arabia’s tourism evaluations globally have risen significantly due to widespread reforms, tourism openness, and investment in new destinations.
• It ranks 13th globally in international visitor count (over 27 million international tourists in 2023), becoming one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations internationally, with a 100% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels.
• The Kingdom is now considered a major international tourism player, not just an emerging destination.
• Total tourists (domestic and international) reached 115.9 million in 2024, marking a record high.
• Forbes magazine described Saudi Arabia as the “next travel destination to watch,” particularly highlighting projects like NEOM and AlUla. AlUla also won the “Leading Cultural Destination in the Middle East” award.
• Challenges Being Addressed:
• Despite significant progress, challenges remain, such as service deficiencies in some locations (e.g., hotel and entertainment services, transportation in less-developed areas), weak internal promotion, and high costs for some domestic travel.
• The government’s strategy for tourism development includes addressing these challenges and ensuring the availability of national competencies.

In essence, the transformation is creating a comprehensive and integrated tourism experience that blends the Kingdom’s rich heritage with modern amenities and diverse attractions, aiming to establish Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourism power.

Aadat: Protecting Saudi Heritage

The purpose of the “Aadat” (عادت) campaign, launched by the Heritage Authority in Saudi Arabia, is multifaceted and aims to enhance awareness and protection of the Kingdom’s archaeological and cultural heritage.

Specifically, its key objectives include:

• Enhancing public awareness of the importance of Saudi archaeological sites. This involves highlighting their value and significance to the nation.
• Emphasizing the pivotal role of archaeological sites in solidifying the Kingdom’s cultural identity. These sites serve as a testament to the succession of civilizations that have passed through the land over thousands of years.
• Shedding light on the threats faced by Saudi archaeological sites. This includes drawing attention to dangers such as encroachments and illicit trafficking of artifacts.
• Instilling the concept of communal responsibility for protecting archaeological sites. The campaign stresses that safeguarding these sites requires a deep awareness of their value, as they are an integral part of the country’s cultural record.

The “Aadat” campaign is part of a broader series of initiatives undertaken by the Heritage Authority to address issues related to Saudi archaeological sites. It utilizes a comprehensive system of media tools and awareness campaigns, including field campaigns in public places, markets, commercial complexes, and universities across various regions of the Kingdom, alongside activating advertising campaigns on digital media platforms to reach a wider audience.

Saudi Arabia’s Domestic Tourism Transformation: Vision 2030 and Beyond

Saudi Arabia’s domestic tourism sector is undergoing a significant transformation, becoming a crucial component of the Kingdom’s broader tourism strategy under Vision 2030. This transformation aims to diversify the economy away from oil, generate jobs, and enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents.

Here’s a detailed discussion on domestic tourism in Saudi Arabia:

• Strategic Importance and Growth:
• Economic Diversification: Prior to Vision 2030, the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia was not a major economic contributor. However, within the framework of Vision 2030, tourism is now viewed as a strategic industry and a key economic driver, aiming to contribute more than 10% to the GDP by 2030, a substantial increase from its previous 3%. Domestic tourism plays a vital role in this diversification effort by fostering local economic growth and providing job opportunities.
• Continuous Growth: The Kingdom has witnessed a continuous growth in domestic visitor numbers. This trend intensified after the COVID-19 pandemic and the reopening of borders, with Saudi citizens continuing to travel domestically at an increasing pace even after international tourism resumed.
• High Domestic Spending: Saudi citizens are among the highest spenders on domestic travel within the Kingdom. This sustained increase in domestic tourism contributes to shifting spending from overseas travel back into the national economy.
• Government Support and Initiatives:
• Ministry of Tourism and Affiliates: The Ministry of Tourism and the Saudi Tourism Authority have launched a strategic framework to boost domestic tourism and engage citizens. This includes extensive government support and participation in local initiatives.
• Mega-Projects and Infrastructure: Significant investments have been made in developing massive tourism and entertainment projects, which also cater heavily to domestic tourists. These include:
• NEOM.
• Qiddiya, envisioned as a capital for entertainment, arts, and sports.
• The Red Sea Project and Amaala.
• Diriyah Gate.
• The Riyadh Boulevard, offering modern entertainment and global events.
• These projects are designed to offer unique experiences blending authenticity with modernity.
• Infrastructure Enhancement: The government has made substantial investments in improving roads, transportation networks, airports, and ports, expanding the capacity of tourist cities. For example, the Riyadh Metro project was inaugurated to improve mobility for residents and visitors, aligning with Vision 2030’s quality of life objectives.
• Cultural and Entertainment Events: The expansion of entertainment and cultural events across various regions and governorates, such as Riyadh Season, AlUla, and Jeddah Season, has been a key driver for increased domestic visitor numbers. These events redefine local entertainment through global festivals, cultural and artistic shows, and adventure and nature activities.
• Heritage Preservation: There is a strong focus on restoring historical and archaeological sites and preserving national heritage, enhancing their appeal to both domestic and international visitors.
• Role of Citizens as “Local Tourism Ambassadors”:
• The government has launched initiatives to encourage citizens and residents to explore the Kingdom’s diverse natural and historical treasures.
• Citizens are actively becoming “local tourism ambassadors” by creating content and promoting lesser-known tourist areas through social media. This direct social media influence has a significant impact on motivating domestic travel.
• Local citizens are also leading small-scale tourism projects and tours, defining their neighborhoods, heritage markets, and palm and date farms, while also preserving the heritage of the place.
• Human Capital Development:
• The Ministry of Tourism and the Saudi Tourism Authority have implemented programs to qualify and train citizens, including hundreds of thousands of Saudi women, to work in the tourism sector, with a goal of localizing 30-38% of jobs annually. This includes training in professional tour guiding, hotel hospitality, and heritage restoration skills.
• Challenges and Future Outlook:
• Despite significant progress, challenges remain. These include service deficiencies in some locations (e.g., hotel and entertainment services, transportation in less-developed areas), a weak internal promotion strategy leading to citizens being unaware of various tourism opportunities, and high costs for some domestic travel, particularly for tickets and transportation.
• The government’s strategy for tourism development includes addressing these challenges and ensuring the availability of national competencies to overcome them.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s domestic tourism is undergoing a robust and supported transformation, moving beyond mere recreational activity to become a strategic industry integral to the Kingdom’s economic diversification and cultural preservation efforts, with citizens actively participating in its growth and promotion.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Green Finance and Sustainable Growth

Green finance in Saudi Arabia is a strategic cornerstone of Vision 2030, designed to achieve comprehensive national transformation by fostering sustainable economic growth and reducing reliance on oil [Vision 2030, conversation history]. It represents a significant push for sustainable investments and environmental stewardship within the Kingdom [Vision 2030, conversation history].

The purpose and implementation of green finance in Saudi Arabia can be understood through several key areas:

• Economic Diversification and Sustainability: A central aim of Vision 2030 is to diversify the economy and significantly reduce its dependence on oil, with tourism, for example, projected to contribute over 10% to the GDP by 2030 [Vision 2030, conversation history]. Green finance is essential for funding and promoting non-oil industries and environmentally sound projects that support this diversification [Vision 2030, conversation history].
• Development of Green Financial Products: The Kingdom is actively working on the innovation of green financial products. This includes loans and credit facilities specifically for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. There’s also a focus on sustainable infrastructure bonds, indicating a move towards financing environmentally friendly foundational developments. Banks are expected to reap significant benefits by developing expertise and products in these areas, such as green corporate loans.
• Integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Principles: The Capital Market Authority (CMA) has taken proactive steps to enhance disclosure in the market by issuing guidelines for ESG disclosures since 2019. These guidelines require listed companies, including banks, to disclose information related to their business sustainability and environmental impacts. Furthermore, the Saudi financial market (Tadawul) was among the first exchanges in the region to adopt these guidelines and has launched an ESG index to incentivize companies to improve their performance in these crucial areas.
• Funding Sustainable Mega-Projects: Vision 2030 is underpinned by the development of massive tourism and entertainment projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, The Red Sea Project, and Amaala [Vision 2030, conversation history]. Tourism investment is explicitly linked to preserving the state’s natural and cultural heritage, including archaeological sites and national parks, thereby ensuring sustainable tourism and strengthening the concept of sustainability for future generations. This approach ensures that tourism development supports, rather than conflicts with, environmental and heritage conservation efforts.
• Leveraging Digital Transformation for Environmental Benefits: The financial sector in Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in adopting digital solutions and financial technologies (FinTech). These advancements, such as electronic banking and digital payments, carry positive environmental impacts by reducing reliance on paper and traditional, resource-intensive transactions, thereby lowering the carbon footprint.
• Alignment with Global Trends: Saudi Arabia’s efforts in green finance are in line with a broader global shift towards clean energy. Global investment in clean technologies is projected to reach a record $2.2 trillion in 2024, nearly three times the investment in fossil fuels. The Kingdom is strategically investing in a wide range of clean technologies, including solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear energy, as well as electric batteries and vehicles. This commitment extends to specific green industries, such as the adoption of “green ammonia” projects, which are supported by investment decisions and contribute to local, environmentally friendly industrial bases, fostering sustainable economic growth and job creation.

In essence, green finance is a crucial mechanism within Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to direct capital towards a diversified, sustainable, and environmentally conscious economy, emphasizing transparency, innovation, and long-term environmental and social responsibility [Vision 2030, conversation history; 13, 31, 32].

Saudi Arabian Archaeological Sites: Heritage, Tourism, and Preservation

Archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia hold significant historical and cultural value, acting as foundational pillars of the Kingdom’s heritage and a crucial component of its burgeoning tourism sector.

Here’s a discussion on archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia:

• Significance and Role:
• Cultural Identity: Archaeological sites play a pivotal role in solidifying the Kingdom’s cultural identity, serving as a testament to the succession of civilizations that have inhabited the land over thousands of years.
• Tourism Attraction: They are key to attracting both domestic and international visitors, offering impressive archaeological tourist experiences. This contributes to the economic diversification goals of Vision 2030 by boosting local tourism and providing job opportunities.
• Sustainable Heritage: Investment in tourism explicitly links to preserving the state’s natural and cultural heritage, including ancient cities and national parks, ensuring sustainable tourism for future generations. This approach ensures that tourism development supports, rather than conflicts with, environmental and heritage conservation efforts.
• Key Locations and Examples:
• Saudi Arabia is home to a unique diversity of archaeological sites.
• AlUla, Madain Saleh, and Al-Hijr are highlighted as historical and cultural destinations particularly favored by international tourists, providing a “stunning archaeological tourism experience”.
• Diriyah Gate (Al-Turaif), the first capital of the Saudi state, is considered one of the most important world heritage sites.
• Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad), with its Hijazi architecture and traditional markets, is also a significant site.
• The region of Aseer is noted to have housed ancient civilizations, adding to the Kingdom’s rich historical landscape.
• Threats:
• Archaeological sites face various threats, including encroachments and the illicit trafficking of artifacts. Raising awareness about these dangers is a key objective of preservation efforts.
• Preservation and Awareness Efforts:
• The Saudi government, particularly through the Heritage Authority, has undertaken significant initiatives to protect these sites.
• The “Aadat” (عادت) national awareness campaign was launched by the Heritage Authority with the explicit purpose of enhancing public awareness of the importance of Saudi archaeological sites, emphasizing their role in cultural identity, and highlighting the threats they face. The campaign aims to instill a sense of communal responsibility for their protection.
• Continuous efforts include restoring historical and archaeological sites and enhancing their appeal to visitors.
• Mega-projects such as NEOM, Qiddiya, The Red Sea Project, Amaala, and Diriyah Gate involve working on the restoration of historical and archaeological sites. Projects like the development of AlUla aim to provide a comprehensive and sustainable cultural experience for visitors.
• These initiatives are part of a broader strategy under Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and ensure sustainable development.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision: Esports as an Economic Engine

Electronic sports, or esports, are a strategic and rapidly growing sector within Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, reflecting a significant push towards economic diversification, digital innovation, and global leadership in entertainment. This burgeoning industry is seen not merely as a recreational activity but as a powerful engine for sustainable economic growth and job creation.

The landscape of esports can be understood through several key components and Saudi Arabia’s engagement with each:

• Global Context and Market Value: The esports phenomenon, which began with modest interest in the 1970s, has witnessed accelerated growth driven by technological advancements. The global video games market alone is projected to reach an astounding $455 billion by 2024, underscoring the industry’s immense economic potential.
• Components of the Esports Ecosystem:
• Publishers: These are companies with substantial capital that own the rights to games, such as EA (FIFA) and Activision (Call of Duty).
• Gaming Studios: Responsible for programming and designing games, these studios often operate under publishers and utilize specialized game engines for development (e.g., Mojang, creators of Minecraft).
• Platforms and Devices: This encompasses the hardware and software used to play games, ranging from personal computers (PC platforms like Steam) to dedicated gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Atari, Sega, Nintendo).
• Content Creators: Individuals who produce visual content related to gaming, whether through live streaming or recorded videos on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. A notable Saudi example is “Bandareta,” a prominent Saudi YouTuber who exemplifies this segment.
• Electronic Sports (Esports) Competitions: This involves the organization of competitive events and leagues. The Saudi Electronic Sports Federation is noted for organizing the Electronic Games League and hosting exhibitions in this domain.
• Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Vision and Investment:
• Vision 2030 Integration: Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 places digital innovation and entertainment among its top priorities, viewing esports as a key driver for national transformation and sustainable development. This vision aims to position the Kingdom as a global destination for entertainment, including sports and various mega-projects.
• Public Investment Fund (PIF) Role: The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has launched the Savvy Gaming Group specifically to invest in the gaming sector. This initiative aims to cultivate a fertile environment for gaming, empowering Saudi programmers and developers to lead this transformation.
• Mega-Projects and Infrastructure: Large-scale developments like NEOM, Qiddiya, and Diriyah Gate are creating state-of-the-art infrastructure that can host major entertainment and sports events, implicitly supporting the esports ecosystem. Riyadh Season and Boulevard Riyadh are also highlighted as modern global entertainment destinations capable of hosting significant events.
• Clean Technology Investment: Saudi Arabia is strategically investing in clean technologies globally, projecting an investment of $2.2 trillion in 2024, nearly three times the investment in fossil fuels. This broader investment in advanced technologies and sustainable practices aligns with the high-tech nature of the esports industry and its infrastructure needs [Green Finance, conversation history].
• Talent Development: The Kingdom emphasizes developing national talent to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving job market, including skills in Artificial Intelligence (AI) relevant to gaming. This commitment includes training and empowering Saudi professionals to take on leadership roles in this sector.
• Flagship Initiatives and Impact:
• Gamers8 and Esports World Cup (EWC): These are significant initiatives that aim to establish Saudi Arabia as a leading global hub for hosting major esports tournaments and offering substantial prizes. These events contribute to the Kingdom’s competitive edge on the international stage.
• Job Creation: The tourism and entertainment sectors, which include esports, are seen as strong catalysts for generating direct and indirect job opportunities, contributing effectively to addressing unemployment, especially among youth. This diversification helps build a robust and varied national economic base.
• Cultural and National Identity: Investing in and promoting esports contributes to solidifying the Kingdom’s cultural identity and enhancing its positive image globally, by showcasing its embrace of modern trends and its rich heritage.

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s engagement with esports is multifaceted, encompassing significant investments, strategic initiatives, and a long-term vision to transform the Kingdom into a global leader in digital entertainment and a vibrant, diversified economy.

Modern Poetry: Soul, Heritage, and the Digital Age

Modern poetry, especially within the context of Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab world, is a fascinating intersection of enduring artistic principles and contemporary challenges, deeply influenced by technological advancements and shifting cultural landscapes. It is a strategic component of cultural identity and expression, serving as a vital link between the past and the future.

The Essence of Poetry: Emotion and Meaning

At its core, poetry is considered one of the highest forms of human expression. It is unique because it not only conveys meaning but also carries and evokes emotion. While meaning addresses the intellect, emotion resonates with the heart, and these two elements are seen as complementary and integral to the poetic experience. The poet acts as a conduit, transforming ideas, wisdom, and stories into verses imbued with feelings such as longing, pain, pride, or enthusiasm. This interplay creates a powerful and multi-layered impact on the reader.

Arabic Poetry: A Rich Heritage Facing New Realities

Arabic poetry boasts a rich and ancient history, deeply intertwined with the region’s cultural identity. Forms like “Hidaa” (a type of Arab chant) are identified as the origin of Arabic chanting and began in the Hijaz. Popular forms such as Nabati poetry (Nabaṭī is a form of vernacular poetry in Arabic) continue to resonate, especially within the Arabian Gulf region. The Arabic language itself is celebrated for its profound “poetic and lyrical” essence, which has profoundly influenced Arabic music and song, exemplified by figures like Umm Kulthum. This linguistic richness is so deeply valued that it is considered a miracle in its beauty and eloquence, especially in its Quranic form.

However, this rich heritage is now navigating a period of profound transformation.

Challenges and Transformations in Modern Poetry

Modern poetry, particularly in the Arab world, is grappling with several significant challenges:

• Technological Shift and New Media: The rise of digital platforms, social media, and visual content has introduced new forms of expression. Questions arise about whether “photographed narrative” or “comics” constitute a new literary genre. There’s concern that the prevalence of short, visually supported texts might diminish the “soul” of traditional literary forms. The “death of the author” theory, suggesting meaning is largely created by the reader’s conscious experience rather than solely by the author, further complicates the relationship between creator, text, and audience in this new digital age.
• Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI): The emergence of AI and robotics poses a unique challenge to linguistic dominance, with English often seen as the more suitable language for interacting with these technologies. A significant concern is whether AI can truly understand and convey the authentic “soul” of deeply rooted cultural expressions, such as Bedouin culture or Nabati poetry. The fear isn’t just about AI’s ability to produce content, but its potential to convince the world that its output is the authentic reality, necessitating “genuine cultural oversight” to maintain a balance between tradition, creativity, and modernity.
• Changing Audience Behavior: There is an acknowledged decline in reading and a growing preference for “light content” and “trends” on social media, leading to an “eclipse of spaces for serious discourse”. This shift in consumption habits forces poets and literary figures to adapt or risk losing their audience.
• Globalization and Cultural Influence: Arabic culture, like many others, is undergoing “terrifying transformations,” some internal and some “imposed by its surroundings”. This raises concerns about maintaining authenticity and identity while embracing global openness.

The Role of Poetry in a Modern Context

Despite these challenges, poetry continues to play a vital role:

• Preserving Identity and Heritage: Poetry, along with other art forms, serves as a “memory that preserves the experiences of peoples” and translates them into values, symbols, and narratives that shape collective behavior and identity. It helps reinforce national identity and project a modern image globally.
• Fostering Dialogue and Understanding: Literary events, such as poetry evenings in Jazan and Saudi Arabia’s participation in international book fairs, promote cultural exchange and dialogue. The nuanced approach of poets like Mahmoud Darwish, who evolved from direct political expression to more symbolic and universal themes, exemplifies poetry’s capacity to transcend immediate concerns and address deeper human experiences like alienation and eternity.
• Driving Creativity and Innovation: The continued production of literary works, such as Raed Al-Eid’s “Lost Praises”, which explores “praise” as an act of “discovery of beauty and recognition”, demonstrates an ongoing commitment to artistic innovation and intellectual exploration. The Saudi context encourages this through support for local writers and cultural initiatives.

In conclusion, modern poetry exists in a dynamic space, balancing its rich historical roots and linguistic prowess with the demands of a rapidly evolving digital and globalized world. It is called upon not only to express individual emotions and ideas but also to reflect and shape national identity, foster inter-cultural understanding, and navigate the complex interplay of tradition and technological advancement. The ongoing efforts within Saudi Arabia to support its literary scene and promote its cultural heritage on a global scale underscore the enduring belief in poetry’s power as a “soft power” tool and an essential component of human progress.

KFUPM: A Global Ascent in University Rankings

Based on the information from the sources, it appears that your query about “PMU global ranking” refers to the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM).

According to the QS World University Rankings for 2025, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) has entered the list of the top 100 universities globally, specifically achieving the 67th rank worldwide. This marks a significant improvement from its 101st position in the previous year’s QS ranking.

This progress is attributed to a strategic transformation path launched by the university in 2020, which aimed to move it from outside the top 200 to its current position within five years. The remarkable advancement within a single year reflects the quality of academic and research outputs and the university’s role in supporting the national economy, aligning with Vision 2030 objectives.

Furthermore, KFUPM was also recognized by Times Higher Education (THE) in 2024 as the best university in the Middle East and Africa. The university’s strategic transformation emphasizes self-reliance, research, interdisciplinary work, and entrepreneurship among its students, which has contributed to these achievements.

OPEC+: Oil Market Guardian and Stabilizer

OPEC+ is highlighted as a primary guarantor for oil prices and the sector as a whole. The stability of this alliance is crucial for the global oil market, and its role has been emphasized by key figures.

Here’s a breakdown of OPEC+’s stability and related factors:

• Role in Market Stability: The Saudi Minister of Energy, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, stressed that it is incumbent upon all members of the alliance to work together and ensure their participation in addressing any situations that may arise. This indicates a commitment to collective action to maintain market equilibrium.
• Response to Market Volatility: The Minister’s statement, “we have dealt with many situations in their time, which confirms that as a reliable, serious, and effective organization, we can pay great attention to conditions when they arise,” underscores OPEC+’s proven ability to manage volatile market conditions. This track record contributes to its perceived stability and reliability.
• Impact on Oil Prices: There’s an acknowledged link between OPEC+ actions and oil prices. For instance, a Morgan Stanley model indicated that a 10% increase in oil prices, driven by supply reductions from OPEC+, would add only 3 basis points to core inflation. This suggests that while OPEC+ actions can influence prices, their broader inflationary impact might be contained.
• Production Cuts and Market Outlook: The rapid reversal of OPEC+ production cuts has led to higher oil sector growth forecasts, increasing from 3.2% in March to 4.5%. This reflects the direct influence of OPEC+ decisions on production levels and market expectations. However, despite this, the region might still face increased financial pressures due to forecasted lower average Brent crude prices.
• Geopolitical Factors: The stability of the oil market, and by extension, OPEC+, is subject to geopolitical tensions. An example is the concern that the recent escalation between Iran and Israel could push oil prices to record levels, potentially into the hundreds. Such external factors necessitate OPEC+’s proactive stance in managing potential disruptions.
• Shifting Global Dynamics: Despite ongoing tensions, there has been a notable shift in investor sentiment towards the region, with global investors increasingly seeking investment opportunities in the Gulf due to economic reforms and growth driven by these reforms. This could indirectly contribute to the stability of energy producers like Saudi Arabia, a key OPEC+ member, by diversifying revenue streams and strengthening their economies.

In essence, OPEC+ aims to maintain stability in the oil market through strategic collaboration among its members, drawing on past experiences to navigate challenges and ensure a reliable supply of oil while managing price fluctuations and geopolitical risks.

King Abdulaziz Quality Award: Royal Patronage and Principles

The King Abdulaziz Quality Award is a significant national initiative in Saudi Arabia, deeply rooted in the Kingdom’s vision for excellence and development.

Key aspects of the King Abdulaziz Quality Award include:

• Royal Patronage and Support: The award is held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz. High-ranking officials, such as Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, the Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region, attend the honoring ceremonies for the winning establishments. A speech delivered by Prince Mohammed bin Turki bin Abdullah at one such ceremony further underscores the award’s importance and royal backing.
• Purpose and Principles: Bearing the name of King Abdulaziz, the award was established as a national platform. Its fundamental objectives are to:
• Foster positive competition among institutions.
• Instill the principles of good governance.
• Drive institutions towards excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• It has evolved into a practical and effective tool for developing institutional capabilities for national institutional excellence.
• Honoring and Ceremony: The award celebrates winning establishments/institutions. Ceremonies to honor these entities typically begin with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a visual presentation about the award itself. The presence of royal figures at these events highlights the national importance placed on quality and institutional development.

Saudi Arabia’s AI Transformation: Vision 2030 and Beyond

Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications are emerging as a fundamental pillar for Saudi Arabia’s strategic transformation, playing a crucial role in economic diversification, human capital development, and enhancing public services, while also prompting significant discussions about their cultural and ethical implications [previous turn, 79, 89, 93, 199, 215, 366].

Key Applications and Initiatives:

• Economic Transformation and Innovation:
• Investment in AI: A significant portion of digital budgets, with 57% of entities, dedicating 5% of their digital budget to AI investment, and 50% having clear roadmaps for initial use cases.
• Strategic Partnerships: Companies like Nutanix are deeply integrating with NVIDIA AI platforms (including NVIDIA AI Enterprise, NVIDIA NIM microservices, and NVIDIA NeMo framework) to accelerate the deployment of AI applications for enterprises, aiming to simplify workflows and ensure secure and private large language model (LLM) operations. These investments align with Vision 2030 objectives.
• FinTech Growth: The financial technology (FinTech) sector is experiencing rapid growth, supported by an encouraging regulatory environment, implicitly leveraging AI for innovation.
• Industrial Application: While not always explicitly stated for AI within car manufacturing, the broader push towards advanced technologies and localization of manufacturing (e.g., electric vehicles) indicates AI will be integral. The transfer of manufacturing knowledge to local contexts includes the use of AI tools in design and production.
• Human Capital Development:
• National AI Empowerment: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) launched the “SAMAI” (SDAIA AI) initiative to empower one million Saudis with AI tools through advanced training programs in partnership with global tech companies.
• Skill and Knowledge Enhancement: SAMAI’s goals include raising public awareness of AI’s importance, enhancing knowledge and skills in AI technologies, supporting lifelong learning for all age groups, updating knowledge and skills to keep pace with AI developments, and qualifying Saudi competencies.
• Academic Integration: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) incorporates “AI+X” (Artificial Intelligence) as a shared core requirement across all academic disciplines, highlighting its importance in future studies.
• Public Services and Social Impact:
• Hajj and Umrah Management: Modern technologies, including AI, are deployed for information, guidance, crowd management, and traffic regulation to serve pilgrims during Hajj, contributing to its success and pilgrim comfort. The “Zali” system, which enhances border security, also utilizes advanced technology.
• Government Operations: Some governments, as reported by Reuters Digital News, use AI tools like PsyOps AI and Brandwatch to monitor public opinion, analyze user behavior, and create targeted media campaigns.
• Infrastructure and Smart Cities: AI supports digital infrastructure development and innovative solutions, as evidenced by the 38 billion SAR contracts for digital government services. AI also assists in analyzing data for road safety projects and identifying critical areas.
• Healthcare: While not explicitly stated as AI, “digital transformation” and “advanced techniques” in healthcare (like KFUPM’s advancements) indicate a move towards data-driven and potentially AI-enhanced diagnostics and treatment.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Cultural Preservation: There are concerns that AI may struggle to truly understand and convey the “authentic soul” of deeply rooted cultural expressions like Bedouin culture or Nabati poetry [previous turn]. This necessitates “genuine cultural oversight” to maintain a balance between tradition, creativity, and modernity [previous turn].
• Ethical Implications: The rapid advancement of AI, particularly generative AI, raises questions about its potential to “convince the world that its output is the authentic reality,” emphasizing the need for careful management [previous turn]. The use of AI in influencing public opinion also brings forth ethical considerations, underscoring the importance of “digital ethics”.
• Linguistic Dominance: The perception that English is more suitable for AI interaction than Arabic poses a challenge for the preservation and prominence of the Arabic language in the digital age [previous turn].

In summary, AI in Saudi Arabia is not merely a technological trend but a pivotal element of Vision 2030, driving economic diversification, developing human capabilities, and enhancing public services. These efforts are accompanied by critical discussions regarding the cultural and ethical dimensions of AI’s integration into society [previous turn, 79, 89, 93, 199, 215, 366].

The Profound Impacts of Geopolitical Conflicts

Conflicts are depicted as complex phenomena often driven by intricate economic and geopolitical interests. They are not isolated events but are frequently fueled by underlying motivations, such as the pursuit of profit through arms sales, the funding of armed groups, and the exploitation of chaos for internal gains.

The impacts of these conflicts are wide-ranging and severe, affecting various dimensions:

• Direct Violence and Casualties: Sources provide stark accounts of direct violence, including the killing of civilians in Gaza, destruction of homes and property in areas like Rafah, Khan Yunis, and Jerusalem, and the torture and detention of individuals. The escalation in the West Bank and Gaza since October 7, 2023, has resulted in thousands of Palestinian casualties.
• Humanitarian Crisis and Aid Obstruction: The situation in Gaza is characterized as a profound “tragedy”, with a critical impact being the obstruction of international organizations from delivering humanitarian aid and operating essential medical facilities.
• Economic Impact:Oil Market Volatility: Geopolitical tensions, such as the Iran-Israel escalation, lead to investors anticipating higher oil prices and seeking safe havens like gold. A US strike on an Iranian nuclear site is also expected to drive oil prices further up.
• National Economic Strain: Iran’s economy is significantly weakened by sanctions and ongoing conflict, experiencing high inflation (43.3% in June 2025) and a substantial reduction in oil exports. Furthermore, destruction of manufacturing facilities exacerbates economic woes.
• Military Expenditure: The financial burden of conflict is evident in the cost of defense systems, such as Israel’s “Iron Dome,” which incurred over $600 million for intercepting rockets. The conflict has also seen Iran expend a significant portion (40%) of its ballistic missile arsenal. These figures underscore the costly and exhausting nature of prolonged warfare.
• Paralysis and Destruction: In Syria, years of conflict have resulted in a “destroyed country” and a “paralyzed economy,” compounded by foreign interventions.
• Social and Psychological Impacts:Forced Displacement and Demographic Change: In Jerusalem, Palestinian families face demolition orders, exorbitant fines, and denied building permits, which are part of a broader Israeli policy aimed at altering the city’s demographic landscape and displacing its indigenous population. These actions are legally framed as “crimes of displacement” and “war crimes”.
• Military Operations and Restrictions: West Bank towns experience military raids, house searches, and detentions of youth, often accompanied by curfews and property damage.
• Psychological Toll of Media: The constant exposure to conflict news, including “images of destruction, sounds of explosions, and cries of victims,” inflicts a deep psychological impact on individuals, leading to emotional distress.
• Information Warfare and Misinformation: Digital platforms and social media can become conduits for biased or manipulated news during conflicts, leading to emotional responses without critical analysis and the blurring of fact with opinion. This raises concerns about AI’s potential to “convince the world that its output is the authentic reality” [Previous turn], further highlighting ethical challenges. A study indicated that 78% of Middle East youth form political opinions based on social media.
• Geopolitical Realignments: Conflicts are often viewed as a pretext for reshaping the global order. The Iran-Israel conflict is explicitly described as a “new chapter in the struggle for influence in a rapidly changing world”. This dynamic prompts critical questions about the potential emergence of a multipolar world or the desperate efforts of major powers to retain dominance. Discussions include the role of the US in imposing new realities in the Middle East and asserting its hegemony.
• Cultural Destruction and Exploitation: Concerns are raised about Israeli authorities’ actions to “clean” Palestinian historical sites for “excavation and drilling,” seen as an attempt to assert sovereignty over Palestinian cultural heritage while exploiting international attention on ongoing wars.

Saudi Arabia’s Stance and Role:

Saudi Arabia positions itself as a central and active participant in the international system, deeply committed to achieving peace and stability. The Kingdom’s foreign policy is rooted in Islamic principles such as justice, peace, cooperation, and non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.

The Kingdom actively engages in mediation efforts to resolve disputes, including hosting negotiating talks between conflicting parties. Notably, the Saudi Crown Prince welcomed a ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel, expressing hope for regional security and stability. Saudi Arabia also explicitly condemned Iran’s aggression against Qatar and affirmed its full solidarity, offering its capabilities to support Qatar’s defense measures. Similarly, the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, condemned Israeli aggression in Gaza, civilian casualties, and aid obstruction, calling for a ceasefire.

Saudi Arabia’s vision, encapsulated by Vision 2030, is described as a “national project” rather than merely a diplomatic tool, built on principles of sovereignty and economic stability. The Kingdom is seen as actively “opening windows for peace and economy” and, despite global uncertainties, maintaining a steady course to guide the region towards stability. This approach reflects a balanced political leadership in a turbulent world.

Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Transformation: Vision 2030 and Global Ambition

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing significant growth in its tourism sector, positioning it as a fundamental pillar of its strategic transformation and a key driver for economic diversification under Vision 2030 [conversation history, 14, 19, 31]. The Kingdom is investing heavily to transform into a global tourism hub.

Here’s a discussion of tourism growth and its multifaceted impacts:

1. Ambitious Goals and Economic Contribution:

• Vision 2030 Alignment: Tourism is seen as a crucial component of Saudi Arabia’s “national project” to diversify its economy away from oil [conversation history, 14, 31]. The aim is to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP from 3% to over 10% by 2030.
• Visitor Targets: The Kingdom is targeting 100 million visitors annually by 2030. This ambitious goal is supported by recent successes; in 2023, Saudi Arabia welcomed over 27 million international tourists, ranking 13th globally and achieving the fastest growth rate in international arrivals (over 100% compared to pre-pandemic levels). Total tourist visits (domestic and international) reached 115.9 million in 2024.
• Financial Performance: The sector is demonstrating strong financial performance. In 2024, Saudi Arabia recorded a travel balance surplus of approximately 49.8 billion Saudi Riyals (SAR), a 7.8% increase from 2023. International visitors’ spending in 2024 reached roughly 168.5 billion SAR ($45 billion), marking a 19% increase from 2023 and exceeding 2019 levels by over 70%. This growth in non-oil revenue is critical for the Kingdom’s economic stability.

2. Major Projects and Infrastructure Development:

• Mega-Projects: A cornerstone of this growth strategy is the development of gigantic tourism projects across the country, backed by billions of dollars in investment. These include:
• NEOM (Sindalah Island): Envisioned as a luxury maritime tourism destination.
• Qiddiya: Aiming to be the capital of entertainment, sports, and arts.
• The Red Sea and Amaala: Focused on sustainable luxury tourism and wellness.
• AlUla: Showcasing historical and cultural heritage.
• Diriyah Gate and Jeddah Central: Highlighting historical and urban attractions.
• King Salman Park: One of the largest urban parks globally.
• Infrastructure Enhancement: Significant investments have been made in upgrading tourism infrastructure, including airports, roads, and hotels. King Fahd International Airport, for example, achieved the top rank in operational performance standards for international airports in its category. The goal is to expand hotel capacity from around 300,000 rooms currently to between 600,000 and 700,000 by 2030. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has actively financed over 2,400 tourism projects, valued at over 35 billion SAR, including more than 9,200 hotel rooms.

3. Enhancing the Tourist Experience:

• Diverse Attractions: Saudi Arabia is leveraging its unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, rich culture, and religious significance. This includes diverse tourist destinations ranging from coasts, mountains, and deserts to historical and religious sites.
• Events and Activities: The expansion of entertainment and cultural events like Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, and AlUla Season has redefined local entertainment.
• Service Quality: Focus is placed on providing high-quality services, ensuring adherence to licensing requirements, and continuous monitoring of facilities. There’s also an emphasis on preserving and restoring archaeological sites to attract both domestic and international visitors.

4. Importance of Domestic Tourism:

• Core Market: Saudi citizens are considered the “heart of domestic tourism”, forming the highest-spending category for internal travel. Domestic travel has continued to grow rapidly even after the pandemic and the reopening of international borders.
• Government Support: The Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Tourism Authority, and the Tourism Development Fund have played a strategic role in bolstering domestic tourism.
• Local Ambassadors: Many Saudis have become “content creators” and “tourism ambassadors” on social media, promoting their homeland, particularly lesser-known areas, with slogans like “Explore your homeland” and “Our tourism is in our home”. This reflects a shift from mere consumption to active participation in the tourism ecosystem.

5. Human Capital Development and Digital Transformation:

• Skill Enhancement: Hundreds of thousands of Saudis, including women, are benefiting from training programs to work in the tourism sector, leading to a significant localization of jobs. This addresses the challenge of a shortage of trained national cadres.
• Digitalization: The Kingdom is embracing digital transformation in tourism. This includes using AI for Hajj and Umrah management to enhance crowd control and traffic regulation, contributing to pilgrim comfort and security [conversation history, 47]. Additionally, initiatives like “SAMAI” aim to empower one million Saudis with AI tools to foster digital skills relevant to various sectors, including tourism [conversation history].

6. Challenges and Outlook:

• Overcoming Hurdles: Despite the rapid growth, challenges remain, such as lack of services in less developed areas, insufficient internal promotion, and high costs for some domestic travel. However, these are actively being addressed through strategic initiatives.
• Cultural and Ethical Considerations: As discussed previously, there are ongoing concerns about AI’s ability to truly understand and convey the “authentic soul” of deeply rooted cultural expressions [conversation history]. This highlights the need for genuine cultural oversight to maintain a balance between tradition, creativity, and modernity within tourism development [conversation history]. The potential for AI to “convince the world that its output is the authentic reality” also underscores ethical considerations in promoting cultural experiences [conversation history].
• Global Recognition: Saudi Arabia is increasingly recognized on the global stage. Forbes described it as “the next must-watch tourism destination”. Historical sites like Madain Saleh and Jeddah have received high ratings on TripAdvisor, and AlUla won the “Leading Cultural Destination in the Middle East” award. The Kingdom’s rise in global competitiveness indices affirms its position as a “real international tourism player”.

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s tourism growth is a comprehensive national endeavor, driven by massive investments, strategic initiatives, and a focus on both domestic engagement and global appeal, while navigating inherent challenges through continuous development and adaptation.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Regional Stability and Development

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing regional and global stability as a core component of its strategic transformation under Vision 2030, recognizing that stability is fundamental for sustainable development and economic diversification. The Kingdom’s approach to fostering stability is multifaceted, encompassing economic resilience, proactive diplomacy, and internal societal development.

Here’s a discussion of regional stability, drawing on the provided information:

1. Vision 2030 as a Foundation for Stability:

• Economic Diversification: Vision 2030 is seen as a “true translation” of economic diversification, aiming to increase the non-oil sector’s contribution to GDP from 3% to over 10% by 2030. This strategic shift reduces reliance on oil and builds a more resilient and stable economy, capable of withstanding global shocks.
• Job Creation and Human Capital: Investments in tourism and other non-oil sectors are creating numerous job opportunities for Saudi citizens, including women, through extensive training programs. This strengthens the national workforce and fosters a stable social environment.
• Attracting Investment: The Kingdom’s strategic initiatives and regulatory reforms are attracting significant foreign and domestic investment. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a pivotal role in financing over 2,400 tourism projects valued at over 35 billion SAR, reinforcing economic stability.

2. Diplomatic and Mediation Role:

• Commitment to Dialogue and Peace: Saudi Arabia emphasizes that dialogue is the only way to solve international crises and is committed to enhancing global security and peace. The Kingdom’s foreign policy is rooted in Islamic principles of justice, peace, and cooperation, alongside respect for national sovereignty.
• Mediation Efforts: Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its role as a reliable and effective mediator in international disputes, including hosting talks between the United States and Russia on the Ukraine crisis. Regionally, it has played a crucial role in mediating conflicts in Yemen and Lebanon, asserting its position as a significant regional and global power.
• De-escalation Calls: The Kingdom consistently calls for self-restraint and de-escalation in regional tensions, advocating for “the logic of the state, not the logic of escalation”. This was highlighted in discussions regarding Iranian military operations and the targeting of nuclear facilities, where Saudi Arabia stressed resolving differences through diplomatic means.
• International Engagement: Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international norms is reflected in its adherence to conventions like the Vienna Conventions for Diplomatic and Consular Relations and its active participation in global initiatives like COP16 to combat desertification and the Saudi Green Initiative.

3. Addressing Regional Conflicts and Tensions:

• Geopolitical Risks: The sources acknowledge ongoing geopolitical risks, particularly in the Middle East, including the Iran-Israel conflict, which has implications for oil prices and global economic stability. The potential for disruption in critical waterways like the Strait of Hormuz (a transit point for 20 million barrels of oil daily, 20% of global consumption) is a major concern.
• Humanitarian Crises: The continued conflict in Gaza, marked by massacres, displacement, and starvation, is highlighted as a severe humanitarian crisis. Additionally, conflicts in Sudan are noted, with calls for an end to external support and arms flow to warring parties.
• Counter-Terrorism: The Kingdom actively supports efforts against terrorism, as evidenced by the GCC’s solidarity with Syria following a church bombing, emphasizing the threat terrorism poses to security and stability.

4. Economic Resilience and Stability Indicators:

• Strong Economic Performance: Gulf economies, including Saudi Arabia, are demonstrating remarkable resilience despite global trade tensions and oil price volatility, showing stronger growth than previously expected.
• Inflation Control: Saudi Arabia has successfully contained inflation, with a low rate of 2.3% in April 2025, supported by a stable Riyal-Dollar peg, government subsidies, and reduced transportation and communication costs.
• Financial Sector Strength: The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) is praised for its role in strengthening financial stability, regulating the banking sector, and promoting financial innovation in line with Vision 2030. The Kingdom’s credit rating has been raised to ‘+A’ by Standard & Poor’s, affirming its positive economic outlook.

5. Internal Cohesion and Soft Power:

• Security as a Pillar: Security is identified as a fundamental pillar for a thriving tourism sector and overall national stability.
• Hajj Management: The successful management of the Hajj pilgrimage, welcoming millions of pilgrims from diverse nationalities, highlights Saudi Arabia’s capacity for large-scale organization and its commitment to ensuring peace and security for pilgrims. Digital transformation, including AI, supports Hajj and Umrah management, enhancing crowd control and pilgrim comfort [conversation history, 47].
• Cultural Diplomacy and Heritage: Saudi Arabia is leveraging its rich cultural heritage and events (e.g., “Year of Handicrafts 2025”) to foster a unique national identity and engage in global dialogue. This cultural outreach contributes to enhancing the Kingdom’s international image as a modern, stable, and culturally vibrant nation.
• Urban and Infrastructure Development: Massive infrastructure projects and smart city developments (e.g., NEOM, King Salman Park) are designed with sustainability and efficiency in mind, contributing to urban stability and quality of life.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s drive for regional stability is an integral part of its Vision 2030, which seeks to transform the Kingdom into a global economic and cultural powerhouse. This vision is underpinned by robust economic diversification, active and balanced diplomacy, a commitment to de-escalation, and continuous internal development, all contributing to a more secure and prosperous future for the Kingdom and the broader region.

Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare Transformation: Vision 2030 and Beyond

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing significant advancements in its healthcare sector, driven by a strategic vision for sustainable development and economic diversification under Vision 2030. This transformation recognizes that robust healthcare is fundamental for a healthy and productive society, aligning with global goals for “Good Health and Well-being”.

Key aspects of healthcare development in Saudi Arabia include:

• Strategic Vision and Economic Support:
• Vision 2030 acts as the guiding framework, emphasizing sustainable development which inherently includes health.
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role not only in tourism and leisure but also in improving quality of life through investments in housing and strengthening infrastructure and national talent via training programs, which indirectly supports healthcare capacity.
• The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) contributes significantly to financial stability by regulating the banking sector and promoting financial innovation like FinTech, which can indirectly facilitate funding for healthcare initiatives. Saudi Arabia’s strong economic performance, including low inflation and increased non-oil GDP, provides a solid financial foundation for these developments.
• Infrastructure and Service Delivery:
• The Kingdom is committed to developing world-class specialized hospitals and healthcare infrastructure.
• Specific initiatives include the establishment of an Urgent Care Center (UCC) in Buraidah as a community partnership, aiming to enhance emergency care and provide advanced surgical interventions.
• Mobile health units are deployed across various regions, including Al-Baha and Najran, to provide accessible healthcare services to men and women, highlighting a focus on outreach and wider accessibility.
• For the millions of pilgrims, Saudi Arabia invests heavily in comprehensive health services through equipped hospitals and specialized health centers, ensuring safety and ease during Hajj and Umrah.
• Advanced Medical Fields and Innovation:
• Biotechnology and Precision Medicine: King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH&RC) is a leader in biotechnology and precision medicine, actively participating in global conferences (like BIO 2025) to showcase its expertise. It contributes significantly to global genetic mutation databases (OMIM) and is pioneering research in rare genetic diseases, aiming to develop personalized treatments.
• Biological Sovereignty: There’s a strong focus on establishing “Biological Sovereignty” through local genomic analysis platforms and biobanking. This involves collecting biological samples linked to health data for research, early diagnosis, and developing tailored medicines and vaccines, aiming to reduce reliance on external platforms and foster local innovation.
• Specialized Surgeries: The sources highlight advanced surgical capabilities, such as a successful kidney and bladder transplant, and complex procedures like endoscopic chest surgery using flexible bronchoscopy with balloon dilation, performed under local anesthesia to reduce pain and improve patient outcomes. This innovative approach is also being integrated into improving the natural birth experience.
• Dental Healthcare: The dental orthodontics market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing awareness of oral health and the adoption of advanced technologies like AI and 3D printing for diagnosis and treatment.
• Public Health and Preventive Care:
• Awareness campaigns, such as “Your Eyes Are a Trust,” offer free eye examinations and emphasize the importance of early detection and prevention of eye diseases.
• The Kingdom is addressing mental well-being, recognizing that stress and anxiety can lead to various physical symptoms like high blood pressure and digestive issues, impacting overall health.
• Efforts to combat desertification (e.g., Prince Faisal bin Mishaal Center for Cultivating and Propagating Native Plants) and large-scale sustainability initiatives (e.g., NEOM’s zero-emission transport) indirectly contribute to public health by improving environmental quality.
• Regulatory and Quality Assurance:
• The General Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) plays a vital role in ensuring quality and safety. It has received awards for its quality practices in the government sector, demonstrating a commitment to institutional excellence and strategic plans for global leadership in its domain. SFDA also regulates various product compliance, ensuring adherence to technical standards and preventing violations.
• New regulations and reforms, including those from SAMA, are strengthening the business environment, which fosters confidence for investment in all sectors, including healthcare.
• Human Capital Development:
• There is an emphasis on training and empowering national healthcare professionals. Medical groups like Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib are actively organizing pediatrics courses and other continuous medical education programs for staff.
• The role of women in the healthcare sector is expanding. Women are becoming active partners in technical development, specializing in engineering, programming, AI, and material sciences, skills that are highly transferable to medical technology and research.
• Government support and initiatives are fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce in line with Vision 2030’s goal of enabling all national energies.
• Future Outlook and Digital Transformation:
• Digital transformation and the adoption of advanced technologies like AI and data-driven systems (led by SADAYA) are central to enhancing the efficiency and quality of healthcare services.
• Smart city developments like NEOM are designed with integrated, zero-emission, and autonomous transport systems that can directly enhance emergency medical response and urban health planning through intelligent control centers.
• The Kingdom’s efforts in FinTech and financial inclusion (aiming for 70% banking service usage by 2030) further underpin a modern, efficient financial ecosystem that can support future healthcare innovations and accessibility.

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s healthcare development is a holistic endeavor, integrating robust financial backing, advanced technological adoption, continuous human capital development, and strong regulatory frameworks to build a resilient, innovative, and accessible health system that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens and residents.

Saudi Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Healthcare Development

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing comprehensive economic diversification as a cornerstone of its ambitious Vision 2030 framework. This strategic imperative aims to transform the Kingdom’s economy by reducing its traditional reliance on oil, fostering sustainable growth, and creating a vibrant, productive society. The diversification efforts span multiple sectors, supported by significant government initiatives and substantial investments.

Here’s a detailed discussion of healthcare development within the broader context of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification:

• Strategic Vision and Economic Pillars:
• Vision 2030 is the guiding principle, emphasizing sustainable development which inherently includes robust healthcare. The aim is to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP from 3% to 10% by 2030, alongside increasing the number of tourists to 100 million annually, reflecting a deep understanding of tourism’s role in economic diversification and job creation.
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role not only in tourism and leisure but also in improving quality of life through investments in housing and strengthening infrastructure and national talent via training programs, which indirectly supports healthcare capacity by enhancing the overall environment for skilled labor and living standards.
• Non-oil GDP growth is a key indicator of diversification success, with a notable increase of 175% in non-oil revenues, reaching 457.8 billion Saudi Riyals by the end of 2023, and a target of 4.9 trillion Riyals by 2030. The tourism sector alone contributed approximately 5.3% to the Kingdom’s total GDP in 2022, demonstrating the tangible impact of diversification efforts.
• The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) contributes significantly to financial stability by regulating the banking sector and promoting financial innovation like FinTech, which can indirectly facilitate funding for healthcare initiatives. SAMA aims for 70% banking service usage by 2030, fostering a modern financial ecosystem that supports innovation across all sectors.
• Healthcare as a Diversification Sector:
• Infrastructure and Service Delivery: The Kingdom is committed to developing world-class specialized hospitals and healthcare infrastructure. Initiatives include establishing an Urgent Care Center (UCC) in Buraidah as a community partnership to enhance emergency care and provide advanced surgical interventions. Mobile health units are deployed across various regions to provide accessible services, indicating a focus on wider accessibility. Comprehensive health services are also heavily invested in for pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.
• Advanced Medical Fields and Innovation:Biotechnology and Precision Medicine: King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH&RC) is a leader in biotechnology and precision medicine. It actively participates in global conferences (like BIO 2025) to showcase its expertise, contributing significantly to global genetic mutation databases (OMIM) and pioneering research in rare genetic diseases, aiming for personalized treatments.
• Biological Sovereignty: A strong focus exists on establishing “Biological Sovereignty” through local genomic analysis platforms and biobanking. This involves collecting biological samples linked to health data for research, early diagnosis, and developing tailored medicines and vaccines, aiming to reduce reliance on external platforms and foster local innovation in sectors like health and agriculture.
• Specialized Surgeries: The sources highlight advanced surgical capabilities, such as successful kidney and bladder transplants, and complex procedures like endoscopic chest surgery using flexible bronchoscopy with balloon dilation, performed under local anesthesia to reduce pain and improve patient outcomes.
• Dental Healthcare: The dental orthodontics market is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach $638.6 million by 2030 (from $438 million in 2024), driven by increasing awareness of oral health and the adoption of advanced technologies like AI and 3D printing for diagnosis and treatment.
• Regulatory and Quality Assurance: The General Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) plays a vital role in ensuring quality and safety. It received a silver award for its quality practices in the government sector, demonstrating a commitment to institutional excellence and strategic plans for global leadership. SFDA also ensures product compliance to technical standards and prevents violations.
• Industrial and Technological Development:
• Clean Industries and Electric Vehicles: Saudi Arabia is making strides in industrial diversification by focusing on “clean industries” and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. Projects like CEER and Lucid are part of this vision, aiming for local production and export, contributing to non-oil revenue. This involves significant investment in infrastructure like EV charging stations and R&D in battery technology and autonomous driving. The goal is to build a local industrial base, reduce reliance on imports, and enhance technological independence.
• Digital Transformation and AI: The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) leads digital transformation efforts, aiming to enhance efficiency and quality of services across sectors, including healthcare and Hajj management. Government spending on ICT services reached 38 billion Riyals in 2024, reflecting the commitment to a robust digital infrastructure. AI investments are projected to reach $202 billion by 2028 globally, with Saudi Arabia actively exploring AI applications in various sectors. Smart city developments like NEOM integrate AI and autonomous transport for efficient urban health planning and emergency response.
• Sustainable Practices: The Kingdom is heavily invested in sustainability initiatives, including combating desertification and promoting green practices in finance and industry. The Prince Faisal bin Mishaal Center for Cultivating and Propagating Native Plants in Qassim, for example, aims to enhance plant cover and combat desertification. Green financial products, like loans and credit facilities for renewable energy and energy efficiency, are being innovated.
• Human Capital Development:
• Training and Empowerment: There’s a strong emphasis on training and empowering national healthcare professionals. This extends to other sectors like tourism, where there’s a focus on developing trained national cadres in hospitality and tourism guidance.
• Women’s Empowerment: The role of women in the healthcare sector and other emerging fields is expanding. Saudi women are actively participating in technical development, specializing in engineering, programming, AI, and material sciences, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal of enabling all national energies. This includes their increasing presence in diplomatic roles, serving as a modern face of the Kingdom.
• Job Creation and Unemployment: Diversification efforts aim to create new job opportunities and reduce unemployment rates. The Kingdom achieved a historically low unemployment rate among Saudis (7%) by the end of 2024, compared to 12.3% in 2018, reflecting the positive impact of economic expansion and government-private sector collaboration.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification strategy, underpinned by Vision 2030, is a holistic and multifaceted endeavor. It combines significant financial backing from entities like the PIF, aggressive adoption of advanced technologies (AI, FinTech, biotech), continuous human capital development and women’s empowerment, and robust regulatory frameworks to build a resilient, innovative, and accessible economic system that prioritizes long-term prosperity and well-being.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Cultural Heritage for Economic Diversification

Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in developing and promoting its rich cultural heritage as a fundamental pillar of its economic diversification strategy under Vision 2030. This strategic focus aims to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on oil and foster sustainable growth by leveraging its unique historical, artistic, and traditional assets.

The diversification efforts related to cultural heritage encompass several key areas:

• Archaeological and Historical Sites:
• The Kingdom is undertaking significant investments in developing advanced tourism infrastructure and restoring ancient and historical sites.
• Al-Ula, Madain Saleh (Hegra), and Historical Jeddah (Al-Balad) are prominent examples of archaeological and historical destinations being developed to offer integrated and sustainable cultural experiences for visitors. These sites are particularly emphasized for attracting international tourists.
• The Heritage Authority has launched national awareness campaigns like “Aadat” to highlight the importance of archaeological sites in affirming the Kingdom’s cultural and national identity across historical eras.
• Traditional Crafts and Arts:
• A strong emphasis is placed on reviving and empowering handicrafts (known as “Sanaa Al-Ajdad… wa Fakhr Al-Ahfad,” meaning “Craft of the Ancestors… and Pride of the Descendants”). These crafts are seen as vital features of national identity, reflecting the diverse environments and local communities.
• Programs like “Masarat Mena’a” (Accelerators of Growth) aim to transform the Kingdom’s artisanal heritage into sustainable economic projects that contribute to community development, preserve cultural heritage, and strengthen national identity.
• A wide range of traditional crafts are covered, including wooden works, metallic works, leather, textiles, jewelry, embroidery, traditional binding, construction, and pottery.
• Al-Sadu, a traditional weaving craft, is specifically highlighted and recognized by UNESCO as part of intangible cultural heritage. Its revival is viewed not merely as recalling the past but as building upon strong foundations to establish a present that prioritizes identity.
• Regional variations in crafts are acknowledged, such as traditional clothing and daggers in the south (e.g., “Al-Asaba”), palm leaf basketry in the Eastern Province, and Al-Sadu and gold craftsmanship in Najd.
• Cultural Events and Expressions:
• The “Saudi Seasons” program (e.g., Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, Al-Ula Season) has redefined local entertainment through international festivals, cultural and artistic shows, and adventure activities.
• The Ministry of Culture has launched the “National Cultural Awards” to honor the achievements of creative individuals across various cultural production paths.
• There is a growing interest in local musical experiences, with cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Al-Khobar hosting “Nights of Music” featuring alternative music, jazz, and pop. The historical significance of Hejazi music is also recognized, tracing its roots to the Abbasid era and emphasizing its unique style.
• Poetry evenings and literary events are held to support the literary movement and enhance the cultural scene. Poetry itself is recognized as a profound form of human expression.
• Architectural Heritage:
• Traditional architectural elements like “Rawashin” are celebrated as models of Saudi wooden architecture that blend authenticity with modernity and demonstrate smart adaptation to environmental conditions.
• The broader relationship between architecture and music is described as fundamentally “cultural,” rooted in local heritage, and key to fostering innovation.
• Religious Heritage:
• Mecca and Medina remain pivotal religious sites, attracting pilgrims for Hajj and Umrah, especially during Ramadan.
• The intricate process of crafting the Kaaba cover by Saudi hands, utilizing silk, silver, and gold, is a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to its religious and cultural legacy.
• Preservation and Promotion Efforts:
• Tourism investment directly contributes financial resources necessary for safeguarding the nation’s natural and cultural heritage, including the restoration of archaeological areas and ancient cities.
• The Kingdom is committed to sustainable tourism development that supports, rather than conflicts with, environmental and heritage conservation efforts.
• Efforts include continuous human capital development, with a focus on training national cadres in tourism guidance, hospitality, and heritage preservation skills.
• The promotion of cultural heritage also plays a crucial role in shaping a modern and bright image of the Kingdom globally, showcasing its openness while emphasizing its deep-rooted traditions and natural beauty.
• Women’s empowerment is evident, with Saudi women increasingly involved in preserving heritage through traditional crafts and actively participating in technical development, including engineering, programming, AI, and material sciences, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals to enable all national energies.

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s approach to cultural heritage is holistic, viewing it not merely as a historical relic but as a dynamic, living asset that drives economic diversification, fosters national pride, and projects a contemporary image of the Kingdom on the global stage.

Saudi Arabia’s Tourism Transformation: Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a significant transformation of its tourism sector, making it a cornerstone of its economic diversification strategy under Vision 2030. This shift aims to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on oil and foster sustainable growth by leveraging its unique historical, artistic, and traditional assets.

Overall Growth and Strategic Importance: The tourism sector was not a major focus before Vision 2030, but it has now become a fundamental pillar of the national economy, with the Kingdom aiming to become a leading integrated global destination. This ambitious vision is designed to attract millions of tourists to experience its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage. The positive impact of the tourism sector is evident year after year.

Key Drivers of Tourism Growth:

• Massive Investment in Infrastructure and Mega-Projects: The Kingdom has made substantial investments in developing advanced tourism infrastructure, including airports, hotels, and roads. Key projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, AMAALA, and The Red Sea Project are central to this strategy. These projects are designed to offer integrated and sustainable cultural experiences, with NEOM focusing on innovation, environmental sustainability, and quality of life, and The Red Sea Project featuring over 90 islands and aiming for 50 resorts by 2030.
• Development of Entertainment and Cultural Events: The “Saudi Seasons” program, including Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, and Al-Ula Season, has redefined local entertainment by hosting international festivals, cultural and artistic shows, and adventure activities. The Ministry of Culture has also launched “National Cultural Awards” to recognize creative achievements.
• Restoration and Promotion of Historical and Archaeological Sites: Significant efforts are underway to restore and promote ancient and historical sites such as Al-Ula, Madain Saleh (Hegra), and Historical Jeddah (Al-Balad). These sites are crucial for attracting international visitors. The Heritage Authority has launched national awareness campaigns like “Aadat” to highlight the importance of archaeological sites in affirming the Kingdom’s cultural and national identity.
• Empowerment of Traditional Crafts and Arts: There is a strong emphasis on reviving and empowering handicrafts, seen as vital features of national identity reflecting diverse environments. Programs like “Masarat Mena’a” aim to transform artisanal heritage into sustainable economic projects. Al-Sadu, a traditional weaving craft, is specifically highlighted and recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. Traditional clothing and daggers in the south (e.g., “Al-Asaba”), palm leaf basketry in the Eastern Province, and gold craftsmanship in Najd are also celebrated. The revival of these crafts is viewed as building upon strong foundations to establish a present that prioritizes identity.
• Architectural Heritage Preservation: Traditional architectural elements like “Rawashin” in cities like Medina are celebrated for blending authenticity with modernity and adapting to environmental conditions.
• Religious Tourism: Mecca and Medina remain pivotal religious sites, attracting pilgrims for Hajj and Umrah. The intricate crafting of the Kaaba cover by Saudi hands, using silk, silver, and gold, demonstrates commitment to religious and cultural legacy. (Information on Kaaba cover from prior conversation, not directly in provided sources).
• Government Support and Initiatives: The Ministry of Tourism and the Tourism Development Fund play crucial roles, with the fund having financed over 2,400 direct and indirect tourism projects valued at over 35 billion Saudi Riyals. Public-private partnerships are crucial to this development.
• Increased Domestic Tourism: Saudi citizens are considered the heart of domestic tourism, contributing 79-81 million visits out of 100 million total visits in 2023. They are among the highest spenders in domestic travel. Domestic travel has continued to grow even after international tourism resumed post-COVID-19. Citizens are encouraged to “Explore your homeland” and act as local content creators and tourism ambassadors.
• Human Capital Development: Hundreds of thousands of Saudis, including women, have benefited from training programs to work in the tourism sector, with Saudization rates reaching 30-38%. Saudi women are increasingly involved in preserving heritage through traditional crafts and participating in technical development. This empowerment is integral to domestic tourism development.
• Sustainability and Environmental Protection: Tourism investment contributes financial resources for safeguarding natural and cultural heritage, including the restoration of archaeological areas and ancient cities. Sustainable tourism development is a key commitment, ensuring it supports environmental and heritage conservation.

Significant Figures and Achievements:

• In 2023, the Kingdom recorded a total of 100 million visits, with 79-81 million from domestic tourists.
• International tourist arrivals (overnight stays) reached 29.7 million in 2024, an 8% increase compared to 2023.
• Total tourism spending by international visitors reached approximately 168.5 billion SAR (around $45 billion) in 2024, a 19% increase from 2023. This growth significantly surpassed pre-2019 levels.
• Saudi Arabia is ranked 13th globally in international visitor arrivals and is among the fastest-growing countries in international tourism, with an increase exceeding 100% compared to pre-pandemic levels.
• Forbes magazine described Saudi Arabia as “the next tourism destination to watch”.
• The World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2024 noted Saudi Arabia’s advancement in tourism competitiveness indicators, placing it among the top 20 countries globally for tourist security and infrastructure investment.
• Al-Ula was awarded “Leading Cultural Destination in the Middle East” by the World Travel Awards.
• Asir region’s domestic tourist spending reached 10.6 billion SAR in 2023, representing 9.2% of total domestic spending in the Kingdom, highlighting its appeal for internal tourism.

Challenges and Solutions:

• Challenges include a lack of services in some areas, such as hotel services, and weak domestic promotion, leading to some citizens being unaware of diverse tourism opportunities.
• However, these challenges are being addressed, with efforts like launching tourism applications and advertising campaigns. The emphasis on human capital development, including training national cadres in tourism guidance and hospitality, is also a key solution.

Future Outlook: Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision aims to transform the Kingdom into a global tourism powerhouse, competing with major international capitals. This holistic approach views cultural heritage not merely as a historical relic but as a dynamic, living asset that drives economic diversification, fosters national pride, and projects a contemporary image of the Kingdom on the global stage. The goal is to receive 150 million visitors.

Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare Transformation: Vision 2030 and Beyond

Saudi Arabia is undertaking significant advancements in its healthcare sector, driven by Vision 2030 objectives to diversify the economy and enhance quality of life for its citizens and visitors. This transformation involves massive investments in infrastructure, technology, human capital, and strategic partnerships, aiming to establish the Kingdom as a global leader in healthcare innovation and provision.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of Saudi healthcare advancements:

1. Strategic Vision and Investment:

• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role, investing in sectors that enhance quality of life, including healthcare. This aligns with the Kingdom’s commitment to improving health services and promoting sustainable development.
• Healthcare is viewed as a vital component of the ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom’s economy and social structure.

2. Cutting-Edge Medical Technology and Research:

• King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) is at the forefront, showcasing its leadership in biotechnology and genomic data. It leverages the richness of patient data and connects genomic data with phenotypic patterns to develop personalized treatments and innovative diagnostic models.
• KFSHRC contributes significantly to the global OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) database, accounting for approximately 10% of worldwide entries, highlighting its leading role in research on rare genetic diseases and genomic sciences globally.
• The Kingdom is establishing a National Biological Data Bank, designed to collect biological samples (like blood and tissues) and link them with health and demographic data. This will create a comprehensive knowledge base for scientific research and health services planning, particularly for infectious, chronic, and genetic diseases. This initiative aims to enhance Saudi Arabia’s regional and global standing in health and to ensure bio-data sovereignty, reducing reliance on external platforms for genomic analysis.
• There is increasing adoption of advanced digital tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, for diagnosis and treatment in various medical fields.

3. Advanced Clinical Practices and Specialized Care:

• Saudi hospitals are performing complex and innovative surgical procedures. For instance, a specialized surgical team at King Fahd Specialist Hospital in Qassim successfully performed a rare endoscopic surgery to treat severe tracheal stenosis in a pregnant woman without traditional open surgery or general anesthesia, ensuring the safety of both mother and fetus.
• The sources discuss the treatment of specific conditions such as:
• Prostate inflammation and male infertility, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis (e.g., through seminal fluid culture or prostatic massage) and tailored treatments, including antibiotics, alpha-blockers, and muscle relaxants.
• Varicocele, noted as a cause of infertility, is treatable with surgery.
• Skin conditions like dark skin patches (e.g., in underarms, neck, genital areas), which can be related to obesity or genetics, with treatments like topical Retin-A and dietary adjustments.
• Flat warts, a viral skin disease, are treated with topical Vitamin A creams, cryotherapy, or pulsed dye laser.

4. Healthcare Infrastructure and Services:

• The Kingdom has invested billions of riyals in developing healthcare infrastructure, including hospitals and specialized medical centers, equipped with the latest technologies and staffed by qualified medical cadres.
• Hajj and Umrah services are a prime example of comprehensive healthcare provision. The Kingdom ensures the safety and well-being of pilgrims by deploying security forces, implementing rigorous safety plans, and providing extensive medical services through hospitals and specialized centers. The success of Hajj operations, enabled by advancements in digital transformation and crowd management, further underscores the robust health infrastructure.
• The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) ensures the quality and safety of products by suspending non-compliant conformity assessment bodies. This includes setting detailed quality standards for all inputs and outputs, from raw materials to the final product, such as the meticulous process of crafting the Kaaba cover.

5. Human Capital Development and Empowerment:

• There’s a strong focus on developing national healthcare cadres, including women, through training programs in various fields like tourism, hospitality, and technical development. This empowerment is seen as integral to the nation’s progress and a reflection of its modern identity.
• Medical groups, like the Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, are actively involved in continuous medical education and training, such as their specialized pediatric courses, enhancing the skills and knowledge of medical, technical, and administrative staff.

6. Public Health and Awareness Initiatives:

• Health awareness campaigns, such as “Ayounaka Amanah” (Your Eyes Are a Trust) for eye health, are conducted to promote early detection and preventive care.
• There’s a growing awareness of the importance of addressing mental health concerns like anxiety and stress, and their physical manifestations, emphasizing a holistic approach to well-being.
• Efforts are underway to promote sustainable living practices, including the use of electric vehicles, which contributes to reducing environmental pollution and improving overall public health.

7. Challenges and Solutions:

• One significant challenge identified is the denial of coverage by some insurance companies for essential medical devices, such as sensors for heart and diabetes patients, despite their critical role in monitoring vital signs and guiding treatment. This highlights a gap in ensuring universal access to necessary healthcare technologies.
• The Kingdom is actively working to overcome challenges such as the shortage of specialized national cadres by expanding training programs and fostering public-private partnerships to meet the growing demands of the sector.
• Efforts are being made to address the lack of services in less developed tourism areas, which, while not directly healthcare, impacts the overall quality of life and accessibility for visitors and residents.

In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector is undergoing a profound transformation, moving towards a more advanced, integrated, and patient-centric system, underpinned by significant national investments, technological adoption, and human capital development.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Progress

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound economic transformation, driven by its ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy beyond oil and foster sustainable development. This strategic shift involves massive investments, technological adoption, and human capital development across various sectors.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare advancements:

1. Strategic Vision and Investment in Diversification:

• Vision 2030 is the overarching framework, explicitly targeting economic diversification, increasing non-oil revenues, and creating diverse job opportunities.
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a key enabler, investing billions of dollars in strategic projects across the Kingdom. These investments support sectors that enhance quality of life and promote sustainable development, aiming to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from 3% to 10% by 2030.
• The Kingdom’s commitment is reflected in significant reforms in business regulation, labor markets, and capital markets since 2016, with new systems enhancing investor confidence and productivity.

2. Key Sectors Driving Diversification:

• Tourism and Entertainment:
• Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in boosting domestic tourism through the launch of numerous entertainment and cultural events (e.g., Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, AlUla).
• Massive investments in advanced tourism infrastructure like airports, hotels, and roads, alongside mega-projects such as Neom, Qiddiya, Amaala, and the Red Sea Project, are transforming the Kingdom into a global tourism powerhouse. These projects aim to offer luxurious, sustainable, and integrated tourism experiences combining authenticity and modernity.
• Tourism is positioned as one of the main pillars of the national economy. The sector’s competitiveness has increased, attracting significant foreign direct investment and making it a key non-oil income source.
• The Kingdom ensures the safety and well-being of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, providing extensive medical services and leveraging digital transformation for crowd management, which showcases robust infrastructure and service capabilities supporting the tourism ecosystem.
• There is a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism practices that respect resources and promote responsible, human-centered experiences, as well as an effort to broaden the scope of hospitality to include architecture, design, and cultural narratives.
• Technology and Digital Transformation:
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a significant area of investment and development, with Saudi Arabia rapidly adopting AI in various government and private sectors. The Digital Government Authority reported a substantial 18.75% increase in government spending on ICT services and contracts in 2024, totaling SAR 38 billion, highlighting ICT as a key enabler for the national economy.
• The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) is actively promoting FinTech and digital banking solutions to enhance financial stability and efficiency, and to increase financial inclusion to 70% by 2030.
• The Kingdom is establishing a National Biological Data Bank to leverage genomic data for personalized treatments, disease research, and even agricultural development, aiming for “bio-data sovereignty” and positioning itself as a leader in biotechnology and precision medicine.
• The e-sports and gaming sector is experiencing rapid growth, with Saudi Arabia playing a leading role in shaping its global future, evident through significant investments and events like the World Cup for Electronic Sports.
• There’s also a focus on innovation in water technologies, with initiatives like the Global Water Innovation Prize (GPIW) aiming to position Saudi Arabia as an international hub for water research and innovation.
• Manufacturing and Industrial Development:
• Saudi Arabia is making a strategic push into electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, with projects like the PIF-backed “Ceer” aiming to unveil models by late 2025. This represents a shift from a consumer market to a producer of high-value technology, enhancing industrial independence.
• This initiative includes massive investments in EV charging infrastructure and maintenance centers.
• The Kingdom is also investing in clean industrial manufacturing, aligning with global trends, and leveraging its natural resources for renewable energy production.
• Entrepreneurship and Local Industries:
• Saudi Arabia ranks 23rd among the top 100 emerging startup ecosystems globally, reflecting a commitment to fostering innovation and supporting new businesses through legislative reforms and investment.
• Efforts are underway to support and empower local entrepreneurs and farmers in the agricultural sector, fostering innovation and economic growth in this area.
• Initiatives support small and micro hospitality businesses and aim to revive traditional crafts like Al Sadu, promoting cultural identity and creating economic opportunities.
• The Eastern Province Municipality has released over 360 investment opportunities, some with contracts extending up to 50 years, signaling efforts to enhance public-private partnerships.

3. Human Capital Development and Empowerment:

• Developing national healthcare cadres, including women, is crucial through training programs in various fields. This empowerment is integral to national progress and economic diversification, with women taking on significant roles in leadership and decision-making within sectors like tourism and diplomacy.
• There’s a strong focus on technical and engineering education, with an increase in Saudi female students pursuing these specializations, supporting new industries like EV manufacturing.
• Efforts include professional training in tourist guiding, hotel hospitality, heritage preservation, and foreign languages to meet the demands of a growing tourism sector.
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) also supports national cadres through training and educational initiatives.

4. Addressing Challenges and Future Outlook:

• Challenges include the shortage of specialized national cadres, which the Kingdom addresses by expanding training programs and fostering public-private partnerships.
• The rapid adoption of AI raises concerns about job displacement and the need for human capital to adapt to new technological requirements, highlighting the importance of balancing technological speed with human preparedness.
• The economy’s vulnerability to oil price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions reinforces the urgency of successful diversification to build resilience.
• The growth in financial fraud due to digital transformation necessitates increased investment in cybersecurity infrastructure to protect the evolving digital economy.
• The Kingdom acknowledges that the quality and safety of products are paramount for international trade and diversification, ensuring compliance with standards.
• Saudi Arabia aims for comprehensive economic growth and strategic diversification, making tourism a key non-oil income source and attracting foreign direct investment. Non-oil revenues have shown significant growth, reaching SAR 457.8 billion by the end of 2023, demonstrating the effectiveness of Vision 2030 in boosting the non-oil GDP towards its 2030 target of SAR 4.9 trillion.
• Overall, Saudi Arabia is proceeding with confident and bold steps towards building an advanced, integrated, and patient-centric system, underpinned by significant national investments, technological adoption, and human capital development, aiming to become a major industrial player regionally and globally.

Saudi Vision 2030: Cultural and Economic Transformation

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant transformation in its arts and culture sector, driven by Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy beyond oil and foster sustainable development [Introduction/previous conversation]. This strategic shift views culture not merely as an amenity but as a fundamental pillar for economic growth, national identity, and global engagement.

Key aspects of economic diversification through arts and culture include:

• Strategic Vision and Investment
• Vision 2030 explicitly targets economic diversification, increasing non-oil revenues, and creating diverse job opportunities, with tourism and culture playing a central role [1, Introduction/previous conversation].
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a key enabler, investing billions in strategic projects that enhance quality of life and promote sustainable development, including those related to culture and tourism [Introduction/previous conversation].
• The Kingdom’s commitment is reflected in reforms in business regulation, labor markets, and capital markets, which enhance investor confidence and productivity in these emerging sectors [Introduction/previous conversation].
• Culture is being positioned as one of the main pillars of the national economy.
• Tourism and Entertainment as Cultural Drivers
• Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in boosting domestic tourism through the launch of numerous entertainment and cultural events, such as Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, and AlUla.
• Massive investments in advanced tourism infrastructure like airports, hotels, and roads, alongside mega-projects such as Neom, Qiddiya, Amaala, and the Red Sea Project, are transforming the Kingdom into a global tourism powerhouse. These projects aim to offer luxurious, sustainable, and integrated tourism experiences that combine authenticity and modernity.
• Tourism’s contribution to GDP is targeted to increase from 3% to 10% by 2030, highlighting its role as a key non-oil income source [Introduction/previous conversation].
• The Kingdom ensures the safety and well-being of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, providing extensive services and leveraging digital transformation for crowd management, which demonstrates robust infrastructure and service capabilities supporting the tourism ecosystem [Introduction/previous conversation, 56, 76, 215, 216, 217]. Pilgrims often visit historical sites in Jeddah and acquire cultural items.
• There is a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism practices that respect resources and promote responsible, human-centered experiences [Introduction/previous conversation, 175]. The scope of hospitality is also being broadened to include architecture, design, and cultural narratives [Introduction/previous conversation, 174].
• Saudi Arabia has achieved a remarkable increase in international visitors, reaching over 27 million in 2023, making it one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations globally.
• Literature, Publishing, and Language
• The Ministry of Culture has launched the fifth edition of the National Cultural Awards, which recognize creative achievements across various cultural fields.
• Efforts are underway to support and empower Saudi authors and publishers, and to promote the translation of works to and from Arabic, enriching intellectual content and fostering global cultural exchange.
• Saudi universities are starting to adopt modern poetic experiences in their academic research, indicating a shift in academic perspective.
• The King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the Arabic language and its cultural significance.
• Visual Arts and Traditional Crafts
• Traditional crafts are deeply integrated into Saudi identity, reflecting the diversity of local environments and serving as a source of pride.
• The Al Sadu weaving technique has been recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. Its revival is seen as a way to connect with national identity and create economic opportunities [Introduction/previous conversation, 204].
• The Kaswa of the Kaaba is manufactured by Saudi youth through seven stages involving silk, silver, and gold threads, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and national pride.
• Ancient rock art sites like Jubbah and Shuwaymis are being protected and developed for sustainable tourism, as they are crucial historical and cultural assets.
• Contemporary Saudi art, as exemplified by some artists, explores abstract forms, psychological observations, and the interplay of color and sound, often integrating elements like foreign newspaper texts to bridge local and global contexts.
• Marble sculpture is utilized to convey spiritual messages, linking art with religion and national identity in a refined manner.
• The Dhabby Al-Jafoul (gazelle) is a prominent symbol in Arabic culture and poetry, representing grace and elusiveness.
• Performing Arts and Digital Entertainment
• The e-sports and gaming sector is experiencing rapid growth, with Saudi Arabia playing a leading role in shaping its global future through significant investments and hosting major events like the Electronic Sports World Cup (EWC) [Introduction/previous conversation, 72, 73, 285]. Cristiano Ronaldo has been named a global ambassador for the EWC.
• The Red Sea Film Festival supports cinematic projects through grants and connects filmmakers with funding and distribution networks, contributing to the recovery and growth of the film industry.
• The Hejazi musical school emerged during the Abbasid era, characterized by its innovative approach that blended authenticity with modernity.
• Human Capital Development and Empowerment
• Developing national cadres, especially women, is crucial for cultural progress, with training programs in various fields like tourist guiding, hotel hospitality, heritage preservation, and foreign languages [3, Introduction/previous conversation, 12].
• Saudi women are taking on significant roles in leadership and decision-making within the tourism and cultural sectors, breaking traditional stereotypes.
• There is increased enrollment of Saudi female students in technical and engineering education, supporting new industries and cultural sectors [Introduction/previous conversation].
• The Kingdom aims to provide a supportive and safe environment for women to thrive in cultural and economic roles.
• Societal Impact and Cultural Diplomacy
• The development of domestic tourism and cultural initiatives aims to enrich the Saudi experience for both citizens and residents.
• Citizens are encouraged to act as “content creators” and “tourism ambassadors” to promote lesser-known areas and contribute to sustainable development.
• Culture is seen as a soft power tool that can build bridges between peoples and foster understanding, going beyond formal diplomatic exchanges.
• The Kingdom is building a modern and bright image that reflects change and openness, while highlighting its deep heritage, natural beauty, and civilizational achievements.
• Challenges and Outlook
• Challenges include the shortage of specialized national cadres, which is being addressed through expanded training programs and public-private partnerships [3, Introduction/previous conversation].
• There is a need for continuous effort in building cultural infrastructure and fostering new talent.
• Balancing rapid tourism development with the preservation of cultural traditions and community well-being remains an ongoing consideration.
• Despite these challenges, Saudi Arabia is proceeding with confident and bold steps towards building an advanced, integrated cultural and economic system, aiming to become a major player regionally and globally [Introduction/previous conversation]. Non-oil revenues have shown significant growth, demonstrating the effectiveness of Vision 2030 in boosting non-oil GDP [Introduction/previous conversation].

Saudi Arabia’s Green Vision: Sustainable Transformation and Innovation

Saudi Arabia is undertaking a transformative shift in its arts and culture sector, driven by Vision 2030, which views culture as a fundamental pillar for economic growth, national identity, and global engagement [Introduction/previous conversation]. This vision extends significantly into environmental initiatives, aiming to foster sustainable development and diversify the economy beyond traditional oil revenues [Introduction/previous conversation].

The Kingdom’s environmental efforts are comprehensive, touching upon finance, resource management, industrial development, and broader societal awareness:

• Strategic Vision and Net-Zero Targets:
• Vision 2030 explicitly aims to diversify non-oil revenues and promote sustainable development [1, Introduction/previous conversation].
• A core environmental goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.
• The Kingdom is committed to reducing carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually by 2030, aligning with its nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement.
• These initiatives are supported by significant investments from the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is instrumental in projects enhancing quality of life and promoting sustainable development, including investments in entertainment, tourism, and housing sectors [Introduction/previous conversation, 207].
• Green Finance and Investment:
• The Capital Market Authority (CMA) has taken steps to promote Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosure for listed companies since 2019, making Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) one of the first in the region to adopt such measures.
• An ESG index has been launched to incentivize companies to improve their performance.
• The CMA is establishing the infrastructure for green financial instruments in the debt market, including green bonds and sukuk.
• Saudi Arabia issued its first sovereign green bond in early 2025, and major banks are following suit with sustainable issuances.
• The National Debt Management Center (NDMC) has developed a framework to guide sovereign green financing, ensuring proceeds fund projects in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable water management.
• Digital transformation in the financial sector is also contributing to environmental goals by reducing reliance on paper and traditional transactions, thereby lowering the carbon footprint.
• Combating Desertification and Water Management:
• Saudi Arabia is actively addressing desertification, highlighted by its hosting of the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). This demonstrates a commitment to accelerating global efforts to restore degraded land and enhance resilience against desertification and drought.
• The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (located in Qassim, supported by Prince Faisal bin Mishaal Center) is a pioneering national project focused on conserving and propagating native plants, increasing vegetation cover, and combating desertification.
• It involves raising community awareness about native plant importance and engaging schools, researchers, and businesses.
• The project serves as a model for public-private-non-profit collaboration.
• Facilities include a seed bank, plant laboratory, botanical garden, and a nursery, with efforts already leading to the planting of 10,000 local trees.
• The King Abdulaziz Prize for Water aims to enhance the environment for research and technology in water management, covering areas like advanced water production, quality improvement, circular economy, and digital transformation in water management.
• The Shura Council has proposed a regulatory framework for recycling components of renewable energy projects after their lifespan, signifying a commitment to a circular economy.
• There is a focus on conducting environmental impact studies for existing factories on coastal areas and taking necessary actions to mitigate harm.
• Sustainable Mobility and Electric Vehicles (EVs):
• Saudi Arabia is making a strategic shift towards building a domestic automotive industry with a focus on electric vehicles (EVs), aiming for 500,000 EV production annually by 2030. This initiative contributes significantly to reducing the carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.
• Women are playing a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable transport, actively purchasing EVs and participating in awareness campaigns. Their enrollment in technical and engineering education, especially in smart transport and autonomous driving, is increasing.
• Massive investments in research and development (R&D) are underway, with centers in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Neom focusing on areas such as energy consumption reduction, smart navigation, and information security in connected vehicles. Partnerships with global tech companies and research institutions are fostering knowledge transfer and local talent development.
• The development of a widespread network of fast and ultra-fast charging stations across the Kingdom (major cities, highways, residential/commercial complexes) is a key infrastructure initiative.
• Neom is designed as a global model for sustainable cities, with its transportation system integrating environmental solutions and AI. It aims to be the first city globally with a zero-emission, fully autonomous, digitally connected transport system that adapts to user needs in real-time.
• Regulatory support includes legislation mandating a percentage of government and commercial vehicles to be electric and providing incentives for EV adoption.
• The “Made in Saudi” initiative for locally manufactured cars aims to boost national identity and economic pride while promoting environmental benefits.
• Challenges include high temperatures affecting EV battery performance and the need for updated transport laws and safety tests.
• Broader Sustainability and Environmental Governance:
• Saudi universities are actively involved in scientific research aimed at solving societal and environmental problems, integrating sustainability principles into their academic curricula.
• The Kingdom is working to create a supportive and safe environment for women to thrive in cultural and economic roles, including in new industries and cultural sectors that promote sustainability [Introduction/previous conversation].
• The focus on sustainable tourism practices that respect resources is evident in the development of tourism infrastructure and experiences [Introduction/previous conversation, 175].

These diverse initiatives underscore Saudi Arabia’s confident and bold steps towards building an advanced, integrated cultural and economic system, aiming to become a major player regionally and globally, with environmental sustainability as a core component of this transformation [Introduction/previous conversation].

Saudi Arabia’s Vision: Diplomacy, Peace, and Global Responsibility

Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in significant peace efforts, driven by its Vision 2030, which views culture as a fundamental pillar for global engagement, fostering sustainable development, and diversifying the economy [Introduction/previous conversation]. The Kingdom’s foreign policy, established since its unification, is founded on the principles of achieving peace and stability, non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations, and a continuous commitment to unifying Arab and Islamic ranks.

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s peace initiatives include:

• Core Principles of Diplomacy and Engagement:
• Saudi diplomatic culture is defined by a set of principles and practices that govern its external relations, including commitment to Islamic principles such as justice, peace, and cooperation. It emphasizes respect for national sovereignty and reciprocal treatment, drawing strength from a cultural and historical heritage that reflects hospitality, generosity, and wisdom in decision-making.
• The Kingdom consistently advocates for the logic of peace, stemming from a deep understanding of its regional and international responsibilities, rather than narrow self-interest. It positions itself as a land of values and principles, and a cradle of civilization that celebrates humanity.
• The political leadership is characterized by wisdom, rationality, foresight, and sound judgment in its efforts to resolve political disputes through dialogue, negotiations, and diplomacy, aiming to enhance security, stability, and prosperity regionally, internationally, and globally.
• Mediation and Conflict Resolution:
• Leveraging its political, economic, and religious influence, the Kingdom has undertaken mediation roles in various conflicts, hosting negotiating talks between disputing parties and presenting multiple initiatives to bridge divides, especially within its regional sphere.
• In a notable instance, the Saudi Crown Prince affirmed the Kingdom’s stance calling for all efforts to be made to exercise self-restraint and avoid escalation during a phone call discussing the Israeli attack on Iran and the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities.
• The Crown Prince welcomed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, expressing hope that it would contribute to restoring security and stability and avoiding further escalation risks. He also affirmed the Kingdom’s support for dialogue through all means. This ceasefire was positively received by global markets.
• The Ministerial Council condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip, including the killing of civilians, and rejected military escalation. It called for the resumption of negotiations to achieve a ceasefire and deliver humanitarian aid, while also praising the Qatari forces’ capabilities in countering the Iranian attack, emphasizing the integral security of GCC states.
• Regional Security and Stability:
• The GCC states affirmed their full solidarity with Syria in combating terrorism following a church bombing, underscoring the importance of unity to face threats to national security and stability. The Syrian President also emphasized standing united against injustice and criminality.
• Saudi Arabia played a role in the lifting of sanctions on the Syrian people, which aimed to alleviate their suffering and pave the way for building a safe and prosperous future, supporting stability and reconstruction. A meeting was also convened by the Saudi Crown Prince, involving the US President, Turkish President, and Syrian President, to discuss cooperation.
• The meeting of Arab Justice Ministers discussed an Arab Anti-Terrorism Agreement and efforts to unify Arab legislation, including model laws for combating drugs and protecting displaced persons.
• Humanitarian Aid and Global Responsibility:
• The Kingdom’s noble humanitarian efforts reflect its continuous journey of goodness and generosity, providing aid (food, medical, shelter) to affected and afflicted populations around the world, demonstrating its commitment to helping those in crisis.
• Promoting Responsible Discourse:
• In an era of rapid information dissemination, particularly concerning conflicts and wars, there is an emphasized need for deep and systematic awareness in processing news. This involves following independent and official sources, avoiding conclusions based on single videos or testimonies, and cultivating critical thinking to discern truth from manipulation.
• The focus is on using one’s voice to advocate for values rather than inciting, and being part of calming and awareness rather than agitation and chaos. This underscores that receiving news of political conflicts requires intellectual, psychological, and ethical responsibility to foster peace.

These comprehensive efforts highlight Saudi Arabia’s active role in promoting peace, stability, and humanitarian welfare on both a regional and global scale.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision: Peace, Stability, and Diplomacy

Saudi Arabia is deeply committed to achieving peace and stability on both a regional and global scale, with its foreign policy founded on principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations and a continuous commitment to unifying Arab and Islamic ranks [previous conversation]. This commitment is an integral part of its Vision 2030, which emphasizes culture as a pillar for global engagement and sustainable development [previous conversation].

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s peace efforts and engagement in regional stability include:

• Diplomatic Principles and Engagement: Saudi diplomatic culture is characterized by a commitment to Islamic principles such as justice, peace, and cooperation, emphasizing respect for national sovereignty and reciprocal treatment [previous conversation, 103]. The Kingdom consistently advocates for the “logic of peace,” stemming from a deep understanding of its regional and international responsibilities, and strives to resolve political disputes through dialogue, negotiations, and diplomacy [previous conversation]. This approach leverages a cultural heritage of hospitality, generosity, and wisdom in decision-making [previous conversation, 103]. The political leadership is noted for its wisdom, rationality, foresight, and sound judgment in enhancing security, stability, and prosperity regionally and globally [previous conversation].
• Mediation and Conflict Resolution:
• Saudi Arabia has actively undertaken mediation roles in various conflicts, hosting negotiating talks and presenting initiatives to bridge divides [previous conversation, 104].
• The Saudi Crown Prince has affirmed the Kingdom’s stance calling for self-restraint and avoiding escalation in regional tensions, such as during discussions concerning the Israeli attack on Iran and the targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities [previous conversation, 118]. He also welcomed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, expressing hope that it would contribute to restoring security and stability and avoiding further escalation risks, while affirming support for dialogue [previous conversation].
• The Ministerial Council has condemned ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip, including the killing of civilians, rejected military escalation, and called for the resumption of negotiations to achieve a ceasefire and deliver humanitarian aid [previous conversation, 207].
• The GCC states have affirmed their full solidarity with Syria in combating terrorism following a church bombing, underscoring the importance of unity to face threats to national security and stability [previous conversation, 204]. Saudi Arabia also played a role in the lifting of sanctions on the Syrian people to alleviate their suffering and pave the way for building a safe and prosperous future, supporting stability and reconstruction [previous conversation].
• The Kingdom has been noted for its role as a “global diplomatic bridge,” hosting discussions such as those between Russia and the United States regarding the Ukrainian crisis.
• Addressing Regional Tensions and Threats:
• The broader global and regional landscape is marked by “economic inflation and growth crises,” “political wars from Russia and Ukraine,” “direct confrontation between the United States and China,” and “customs duties crisis”.
• Tensions in the Middle East have escalated with the direct confrontation between Israel and Iran, raising concerns about future stability. This conflict is seen as “exhausting and costly” for both sides, with significant human rights concerns raised by international polls regarding Israel’s actions.
• The economic impact of conflicts is severe, as “wars mean only cost and losses” that destroy economic incentives.
• The Strait of Hormuz is highlighted as a vital but vulnerable waterway, with any disruption posing a risk of pushing global oil prices to “record levels”. Despite Iran’s threats to close it, the strait has historically not been closed due to the “disastrous consequences”.
• The conflict in Sudan, fueled by external powers, poses a threat to regional stability, with calls to end the “flow of weapons”. Attacks on hospitals and accusations of external military support, including accusations against Kenya for arming rapid support forces and promoting Sudan’s division, underline the severe challenges.
• The NATO summit reflects increased focus on defense spending in response to threats, notably from Russia, amidst escalating military activity between Iran and Israel.
• Promoting Responsible Discourse: In an era of rapid information dissemination, especially concerning conflicts, there is an emphasized need for “deep and systematic awareness in processing news” [previous conversation]. This includes following independent and official sources, avoiding conclusions based on single videos or testimonies, and cultivating critical thinking to discern truth from manipulation [previous conversation, 354]. The focus is on using one’s voice to “advocate for values rather than inciting, and being part of calming and awareness rather than agitation and chaos” [previous conversation, 357]. Receiving news of political conflicts requires intellectual, psychological, and ethical responsibility to foster peace [previous conversation, 357].
• Internal Stability and Development: The Kingdom’s internal stability and economic reforms, such as containing inflation, implementing extensive national reforms, and fostering a strong investment environment, also contribute to its capacity to act as a stable regional player. Saudi Arabia has also hosted major international events focused on global environmental and economic stability, such as the “One Planet” summit and the COP16 conference.

These comprehensive efforts underscore Saudi Arabia’s active and multi-faceted role in promoting peace and stability across the region and globally.

Saudi Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Global Ambition

Saudi Arabia is deeply committed to economic development, a cornerstone of its Vision 2030 [Introduction/previous conversation, 1, 12, 17, 77, 128, 185, 190, 213, 330, 343]. This vision aims to diversify the economy away from oil dependence by fostering sustainable development and creating job opportunities. The Kingdom’s foreign policy is also rooted in achieving peace and stability, which are seen as integral to economic prosperity [Introduction/previous conversation].

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s economic development efforts include:

• Economic Diversification and Strategic Goals:
• Vision 2030 targets a significant transformation of tourism from a mere recreational activity to an integrated industrial sector, aiming to increase its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 3% to 10% by 2030, while simultaneously increasing the number of tourists to 100 million visitors annually. This strategic shift reflects a deep understanding of tourism’s role in economic diversification and job creation.
• The Kingdom’s recent economic achievements include a rise to the 23rd position globally as one of the best 100 environments for emerging businesses in the 2025 Startup Genome report, reflecting its advanced entrepreneurial environment and strategic investment.
• Non-oil revenues have shown remarkable growth, with a 175% increase to 457.8 billion Saudi Riyals by the end of 2023, a testament to Vision 2030’s effectiveness in boosting non-oil GDP to an expected 4.9 trillion Riyals by 2030.
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a pivotal role in this diversification, investing billions of dollars in ambitious tourism projects across the Kingdom. It aims to become a key player in the global economy, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position as an international financial and commercial hub.
• Key Growth Sectors and Projects:
• Tourism:
• Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in boosting domestic tourism, resulting in consecutive growth in visitor numbers due to the launch of numerous entertainment and cultural events across various regions and provinces, such as Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, AlUla, and Abha.
• Major tourism projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, Amaala, and The Red Sea Project, alongside efforts to restore archaeological sites, contribute to attracting both domestic and international tourists. These initiatives aim to transform the Kingdom into a global tourism destination capable of competing with major international tourism capitals.
• Challenges remain, such as a shortage of services in some less-developed tourism areas, including hotels, entertainment, and transportation, as well as weak internal promotion and high costs for flights and events. There is also a need for trained national cadres in tourism and hospitality.
• Industrial Development (Automotive):
• Saudi Arabia is establishing itself as a regional hub for car manufacturing, with a focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and future technologies. The “Ceer” project, supported by the PIF, is the first Saudi national EV brand, symbolizing a strategic shift towards industrial innovation and self-sufficiency.
• This sector is crucial for economic diversification, creating new job opportunities directly and indirectly, supporting local supply chains, and driving technological transfer and innovation.
• Challenges include a shortage of specialized human capabilities in automotive engineering and manufacturing, reliance on importing critical components like batteries and engines, and intense global competition. However, investments in lithium and battery minerals are underway.
• The development of extensive charging station infrastructure is critical for the success of EVs, along with maintenance centers staffed by trained technical cadres.
• Technology and Digital Transformation:
• The Kingdom has achieved significant progress in digital transformation, with advanced global rankings in digital infrastructure readiness. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) leads this transformation.
• The FinTech sector is experiencing rapid growth, supported by an encouraging regulatory environment.
• Investment in AI and digital tools is seen as critical for enhancing productivity and achieving economic goals.
• Government spending on communication and information technology contracts reached 38 billion Saudi Riyals in 2024, signifying a substantial 18.75% growth compared to 2023, underscoring the sector’s role as a key enabler of the national economy.
• Financial Sector:
• The Saudi financial sector is characterized by stability and activity, with significant growth in digital banking services under the supervision of the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA).
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a central role in stimulating investment, fostering growth, and developing strategic projects that enhance the Kingdom’s global financial and commercial standing.
• Infrastructure Development:
• Massive investments have been made in developing infrastructure across the Kingdom, including transport networks, airports, ports, roads, tunnels, and bridges, alongside healthcare services and security measures. This development supports both residents and visitors.
• The King Salman Road in Buraydah, for example, is undergoing maintenance and upgrading to enhance road network and traffic safety.
• Support for Local Communities and Talent:
• Tourism investment directly benefits local communities by creating new job opportunities in hospitality, crafts, and restaurants. It also supports the agriculture and craft sectors by increasing demand for local products.
• Programs like “Musarreat Numoo” (Growth Accelerators) foster innovation and create a stimulating entrepreneurial environment for handicrafts, connecting small and medium enterprises with supportive entities.
• Efforts are made to develop educational and academic systems to cultivate specialized competencies and cadres in tourism, professional tourist guiding, and high-end hotel hospitality. This includes training in foreign languages and translation.
• The empowerment of Saudi women in tourism is highlighted as a significant factor in economic development, with women actively participating in various roles, from tour guides to hotel managers.
• The “Waaed” program by Ceer provides intensive practical training for Saudi graduates under the supervision of global experts in the automotive sector.
• Addressing Economic Challenges:
• The global economic landscape is marked by “economic inflation and growth crises,” “political wars from Russia and Ukraine,” “direct confrontation between the United States and China,” and “customs duties crisis”.
• The economic impact of conflicts is severe, as “wars mean only cost and losses” that destroy economic incentives.
• The Strait of Hormuz is recognized as a vital but vulnerable waterway, with any disruption posing a risk of pushing global oil prices to record levels.
• Despite these challenges, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies are expected to experience stronger growth than anticipated in 2025, supported by strategic investments and new companies focusing on AI.

Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive approach integrates massive strategic investments, reforms, and talent development across diverse sectors to build a resilient, diversified, and sustainable economy, positioning itself as a major global player.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision: Humanitarian Aid for Global Stability

Saudi Arabia demonstrates a strong commitment to humanitarian aid, viewing peace and stability as integral to economic prosperity [Introduction/previous conversation]. The Kingdom’s foreign policy and Vision 2030 emphasize these values, making humanitarian action a significant aspect of its global and domestic efforts.

Key aspects and challenges of humanitarian aid, as derived from the sources, include:

• Commitment to Global Humanitarian Efforts:
• The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) is highlighted as a model for integrating relief and development in crises. This indicates a strategic approach to humanitarian work that combines immediate assistance with long-term recovery and growth.
• Saudi Arabia has shown proactive diplomatic engagement, for instance, by facilitating efforts to achieve ceasefires and supporting talks between conflicting parties. This engagement underscores the belief that dialogue and peace are essential for alleviating humanitarian suffering.
• Addressing Specific Crises and Vulnerable Populations:
• Gaza Crisis: The sources vividly portray the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, with urgent calls for ceasefires, release of prisoners, and the unimpeded delivery of aid. It’s noted that aid is waiting outside Gaza’s borders, ready to enter, and UNRWA has demonstrated its capacity to combat hunger. Critical shortages in the health sector are emphasized, with less than 50% of lab examination materials and consumables remaining, and medical devices being intentionally destroyed. These actions are described as creating a severe health catastrophe, threatening the lives of the injured amidst rising numbers of casualties and a deteriorating humanitarian situation.
• Sudan Conflict: The humanitarian impact of the conflict in Sudan is noted, with the UN Secretary-General repeatedly warning about external powers fueling the war and calling for a halt to external support and the flow of arms. This highlights how geopolitical conflicts directly exacerbate humanitarian crises.
• Palestine – East Jerusalem: Humanitarian concerns extend to house demolitions and severe restrictions on building permits for Palestinians in East Jerusalem, actions that are described as leading to displacement. These actions are deemed a “crime of displacement and a war crime” and a violation of international humanitarian law and UN resolutions.
• Domestic Social Welfare: Humanitarian efforts are also directed internally. Programs like “Musarreat Numoo” (Growth Accelerators) support small and medium enterprises in handicrafts, connecting them with supportive entities. There are specific initiatives aimed at empowering widows through professional training, job opportunities, and small project financing, along with psychological and legal support. The non-profit sector is recognized for its vital role in addressing gaps in social welfare, education, and health, with a call for sustained support and investment in volunteerism and corporate social responsibility. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen human solidarity and promote a culture of cooperation and tolerance within society.
• Pilgrim Services: The Kingdom ensures humanitarian considerations even during religious events, with efforts to facilitate all needs for Iranian pilgrims and provide comprehensive services to enable them to perform their rituals easily and safely. This includes extensive investments in infrastructure, security, and digital services like those provided by SDAIA to enhance pilgrim comfort.
• Philosophical and Systemic Approach to Aid:
• The sources emphasize the need for “social impact” to be measurable and integrated into public policies, moving beyond mere sympathy or seasonal events. This suggests a shift towards a more structured and results-oriented approach to social and humanitarian initiatives.
• “Mending hearts” (jabr al-khawatir) is presented as a profound human act, highlighting that simple words or gestures can have a greater impact than substantial material aid. This underscores the importance of empathy and human connection in humanitarian work.
• The World Day for the Homeless is mentioned as a reminder that homelessness remains an issue requiring solutions, and humanitarian solidarity can prevent wars and condemn oppressive ideologies.
• Environmental Challenges with Humanitarian Impact:
• The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought is noted, with Saudi Arabia hosting COP16 to accelerate global efforts in land restoration and enhancing resilience to desertification. The importance of healthy land for food and water security and for mitigating natural disasters is highlighted, directly linking environmental sustainability to humanitarian well-being.

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s approach to humanitarian aid, both domestically and internationally, is multifaceted, encompassing direct relief, strategic diplomatic engagement, social empowerment programs, and a philosophical commitment to human solidarity, all within the broader framework of Vision 2030’s goals for peace and sustainable economic development.

Saudi Tourism Transformation: Vision 2030 and Cultural Renaissance

Saudi Arabia has demonstrated a profound and strategic commitment to transforming its tourism and cultural sectors, aligning these efforts with its ambitious Vision 2030 goals. This vision aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, reduce reliance on oil, and create numerous job opportunities, recognizing tourism as a pivotal industry that intersects with economic, cultural, environmental, and political dimensions.

Here’s a detailed discussion on Tourism and Culture in Saudi Arabia based on the provided sources:

• Strategic Vision and Economic Diversification:
• Prior to Vision 2030, the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia did not hold significant importance. However, the Kingdom has since made strong and significant strides to bolster its local tourism, with the explicit aim of diversifying the national economy and non-oil GDP, and providing job opportunities.
• The goal is to elevate tourism from merely a recreational activity to an integrated industrial sector, aspiring to increase its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 3% to 10% by 2030, while simultaneously targeting 100 million annual visitors. This strategic shift underscores a deep understanding of tourism’s potential for economic growth and job creation.
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role, actively investing in diverse tourism projects and funding over 2,400 direct and indirect initiatives valued at more than 35 billion Saudi Riyals.
• Major Tourism Projects and Destinations:
• A key aspect of this transformation is the launch and development of massive tourism and entertainment projects across various regions. Prominent examples include Neom (with Sindalah Island), Qiddiya, The Red Sea, Amaala, Diriyah, and Jeddah Central.
• These projects are designed to create an exceptional experience that blends authenticity with modernity, aiming to position Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourism destination capable of competing with major international tourism capitals.
• Specific events and locations like Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, AlUla, and Abha have already redefined local entertainment through international festivals, cultural and artistic shows, and adventure activities.
• AlUla is highlighted as a success story in tourism development, having won the “Leading Cultural Destination in the Middle East” award, and local residents have experienced a noticeable improvement in their quality of life.
• The southern regions, such as Asir and Al Baha, are noted for their mild summer climate, making them favored summer getaways with charming mountainous landscapes.
• Historical Jeddah and Madain Saleh have received high ratings from international visitors on platforms like TripAdvisor, underscoring their appeal as cultural and historical sites.
• The Kingdom also extends comprehensive services and facilities to pilgrims visiting holy sites in Mecca and Medina, especially during Ramadan, Hajj, and Umrah, involving significant investments in infrastructure and digital services. The success of the Hajj season is a source of national pride, reflecting the Kingdom’s capability in managing large, complex events.
• Cultural and Heritage Preservation:
• A core tenet of Saudi Arabia’s tourism strategy is to preserve societal privacy and promote local culture. This includes restoring historical and archaeological sites.
• The Kingdom’s heritage is deeply rooted, encompassing diverse environments from Red Sea coasts to the desert. Initiatives such as the national program for empowering handicraft projects, which supports small and medium enterprises in handicrafts, aim to connect them with supportive entities and foster the growth of various crafts [105, Previous conversation]. Al-Ahsa is recognized as a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its focus on handicrafts. These traditional crafts are now seen as a source of growing income and are gaining global attention due to increased cultural tourism.
• The “Sadu” weaving technique is particularly noted as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, symbolizing the enduring connection between humans and nature.
• Efforts extend to preserving significant historical sites like the rock arts in Hail, where protection zones and sustainable utilization are implemented to safeguard these testaments to ancient human history and national identity.
• The Kiswa of the Kaaba is manufactured by skilled Saudi youth in a seven-stage process, embodying a significant cultural and religious endeavor.
• Culture is viewed as a “soft power” tool for global influence, aiming to reshape stereotypes and build connections between peoples. The Kingdom’s deep historical heritage, rich in arts, customs, dress, architecture, and cuisine, offers an immersive experience that goes beyond mere observation.
• Enriching Visitor Experience:
• The focus is on providing an authentic and unforgettable Saudi experience. The expansion of diverse entertainment and cultural events, such as the Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, and AlUla, through global festivals and artistic shows, aims to redefine local entertainment.
• The concept of “mending hearts” (jabr al-khawatir), a profound human act rooted in empathy, is highlighted as a cultural value that adds a human dimension to interactions [Previous conversation, 293].
• The emphasis is on measured social impact integrated into public policies, moving beyond mere seasonal events [Previous conversation, 170].
• The Kingdom is also working to ensure that prices are reasonable and quality has improved for both domestic and international tourists, encouraging Saudis to explore their own country and recognize its rich offerings.
• Empowerment and Human Capital:
• A key aspect of the tourism transformation is the development of national capabilities and the empowerment of Saudi citizens, particularly women, to work in the sector. Hundreds of thousands of Saudis have benefited from qualification and training programs.
• Saudi women are becoming active partners in the tourism sector, from leadership roles to technical fields like guiding, hotel management, and event organization. Their increasing presence in diplomacy also adds a human and cultural dimension to international discourse, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s image globally.
• The sources indicate a rising interest among Saudi women in sustainable tourism, including purchasing electric and hybrid vehicles, and actively promoting sustainable travel on digital platforms. This participation is seen as a tangible, rather than merely symbolic, part of the national environmental solutions.
• Challenges and Future Outlook:
• Despite significant progress, challenges remain in domestic tourism, including service gaps in less developed areas, insufficient internal promotion (where citizens are unaware of opportunities), high costs, and a shortage of trained national staff. Overcoming these is considered fundamental to the success of the tourism strategy.
• There is a focus on balancing tourism development with the preservation of cultural traditions and societal values.
• The Kingdom is investing heavily in infrastructure, developing diverse destinations, and protecting environmental and cultural heritage to ensure a prosperous and sustainable tourism industry. This includes efforts to combat desertification and drought, linking environmental sustainability to human well-being [Previous conversation].
• The overall vision is for Saudi tourism to become a major global player, achieving remarkable leaps in international evaluations, driven by an ambitious strategy that focuses on authenticity and the visitor experience, firmly placing the Kingdom on the world tourism map.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Economic Transformation

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound and strategic economic transformation driven by its ambitious Vision 2030 [Previous conversation, 23, 24, 306, 309]. This vision aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, reduce its reliance on oil, and create numerous job opportunities for its citizens [Previous conversation, 5, 14, 179, 216, 301, 313]. This shift is transforming tourism from a mere recreational activity into an integrated industrial sector [Previous conversation, 14, 23].

Here are key economic trends and related initiatives in Saudi Arabia:

• Economic Diversification and Growth Targets:
• The strategic goal is to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 3% to 10% by 2030, while simultaneously targeting 100 million annual visitors [Previous conversation, 8, 14].
• The Kingdom is achieving remarkable growth in its non-oil activities, with a 5.3% increase in the non-oil activities index in 2024, reflecting the effectiveness of Vision 2030 programs. The non-oil GDP is projected to reach 4.9 trillion Saudi Riyals by 2030.
• The overall goal is to build a prosperous and sustainable economy.
• Key Economic Sectors and Performance:
• Tourism: The sector has achieved historical record figures in 2024, both in terms of tourist numbers and spending.
• Total visits reached 115.9 million tourists (including both international and domestic visitors).
• Overall tourism spending surpassed 284 billion Saudi Riyals.
• The Kingdom received over 27 million international tourists in 2023, ranking 13th globally and becoming one of the fastest-growing countries in international tourism.
• Major tourism and entertainment projects like Neom, Qiddiya, The Red Sea, Amaala, Diriyah, and Jeddah Central are under development to position Saudi Arabia as a leading global tourism destination [Previous conversation, 5, 6, 7, 11].
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a crucial driver, investing over 35 billion Saudi Riyals in more than 2,400 direct and indirect tourism initiatives [Previous conversation, 11].
• The number of hotel rooms is expected to increase significantly, from around 300,000 currently to 600,000-700,000 by 2030.
• Industry and Manufacturing: Saudi Arabia is transforming from primarily an oil exporter to a petrochemical industrial power, with a focus on value-added products.
• The Kingdom aims to become a regional hub for car manufacturing, particularly electric vehicles (EVs), by 2030-2035.
• “Ceer” Motors, a national EV company, was established in partnership with PIF and Foxconn, targeting an annual production of around 170,000 EVs by mid-next decade, creating 30,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2034.
• The automotive sector is projected to grow at a rate of 12% by 2030.
• New industrial incentives are being offered for strategic sectors like automotive, chemicals, metals, and machinery.
• Technology and Digital Transformation: The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) is leading the digital transformation.
• Government spending on IT and communications reached 38 billion Saudi Riyals in 2024, an 18.75% increase over the previous year.
• There is increased investment in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud computing.
• The FinTech sector is also experiencing rapid growth supported by encouraging regulations.
• Financial Sector and Investment: The financial sector is characterized by stability and dynamism, overseen by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA).
• Green finance has seen remarkable growth, from approximately $1 billion in 2019 to nearly $8 billion in 2023.
• The PIF issued green bonds totaling $8.5 billion in 2022-2023.
• Total investment in Saudi Arabia has doubled to 1.2 trillion Saudi Riyals, representing 30% of the Saudi economy.
• Banking credit grew by over 443 billion Saudi Riyals by April 2025, distributed across 17 diverse economic activities, supporting comprehensive economic growth.
• E-sports: The E-sports World Cup 2025 is designed to provide sustainable economic opportunities and enhance the region’s position as a leading global hub for gaming. The MENA region alone has about 559 million players.
• Freelance Economy: The number of registered freelancers exceeded 2.25 million by September 2024, contributing to economic prosperity and new job opportunities.
• Human Capital and Job Creation:
• The Kingdom is intensely focused on developing national capabilities and empowering Saudi citizens, particularly women, to work in various sectors [Previous conversation].
• Hundreds of thousands of Saudis have benefited from qualification and training programs [Previous conversation].
• The unemployment rate for Saudis reached a historic low of 7% in 2024, meeting Vision 2030 targets ahead of schedule.
• Approximately 700,000 new jobs for citizens were added in the private sector over four years.
• Saudi women are becoming active partners in the tourism sector [Previous conversation] and are significantly participating in sustainable tourism initiatives, including the promotion of eco-friendly transport.
• Global Recognition and Strategic Partnerships:
• Saudi Arabia’s reforms and investments are enhancing its global standing in sustainable investment criteria.
• The Kingdom’s PIF holds strong credit ratings from international agencies like Moody’s (“Aa3”) and Fitch (“+A”), both with stable outlooks.
• Saudi Arabia has shown a strong commitment to public-private partnerships. For instance, “Awn for Tourism” supports small and micro-enterprises in hospitality.
• The Kingdom is also making strides in academic achievements, with Prince Mohammad bin Fahd University entering the top 100 distinguished universities globally in the Times Impact ranking. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals also climbed to rank 67 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
• Upcoming Major Event:
• The Riyadh Expo 2030, managed by a PIF-owned company, is expected to contribute around 241 billion Saudi Riyals to the GDP during its construction phases and create 171,000 direct and indirect jobs. This mega-project will enhance Riyadh’s global attractiveness as a hub for business and innovation.

These trends collectively demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s concentrated efforts to build a robust, diversified, and sustainable economy that is less dependent on oil revenues and more integrated into the global economic landscape.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Economic Transformation and Global Diplomacy

Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in a profound and strategic economic transformation, primarily driven by its ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil [Previous conversation, 5, 14, 179, 216, 301, 313]. This transformation extends beyond economic diversification to significantly influence its international relations, with Saudi Arabia positioning itself as a leading global player committed to stability and dialogue.

Here’s a discussion of key trends in Saudi Arabia’s international relations:

• Commitment to Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution:
• Saudi Arabia, particularly under the leadership of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, emphasizes that dialogue is the sole means to resolve all international crises. The Kingdom consistently calls for self-restraint, de-escalation, and diplomatic solutions to address regional and international conflicts. This stance is reflected in its efforts to host and facilitate talks between major global powers, such as discussions between the Russian Federation and the United States.
• The Kingdom’s diplomatic culture is defined by its historical Islamic and social values such as justice, peace, cooperation, generosity, and wisdom in decision-making. Since the reign of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in 2015, Saudi diplomacy has adopted a multi-partner approach, reducing reliance on traditional strategic allies like the United States and fostering broader international relationships. This commitment to diplomatic engagement also includes empowering Saudi women to play a significant role in diplomatic work, enhancing the Kingdom’s global image as a country that believes in women’s empowerment.
• Engagement in Regional Conflicts:
• Israel-Iran Tensions: Saudi Arabia has been closely monitoring the escalating military confrontation between Israel and Iran, advocating for urgent de-escalation. Following recent attacks, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince engaged in phone calls with the French President and Italian Prime Minister, underscoring the Kingdom’s position calling for all efforts to be made to exercise self-restraint, avoid escalation, and resolve all differences through diplomatic means. The Kingdom also welcomed the agreement on a ceasefire between the parties, expressing hope that it would contribute to restoring security and stability and avoiding the dangers of escalation. Concerns about rising oil prices and increased market uncertainty due to these tensions are also noted.
• Syria: Saudi Arabia actively supports efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis, focusing on reconstruction and lifting sanctions. The Kingdom hosted a meeting between the Saudi Foreign Minister and the Syrian Foreign Minister to discuss the future situation in Syria, emphasizing dialogue as the only way to resolve international crises.
• Gaza and Palestine: The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains a significant concern, with calls for a ceasefire and the facilitation of widespread, uninterrupted humanitarian aid. The sources also highlight the importance of preserving Palestinian cultural and archaeological heritage.
• Yemen: Houthi groups in Yemen have utilized low-cost drones to target commercial cargo ships in the Red Sea, impacting global maritime security.
• Sudan: The Sudanese Foreign Ministry has accused Kenya of promoting a “parallel government,” signifying regional tensions. Saudi Arabia has extended support to Sudanese refugees, with efforts to facilitate their return home.
• Global Partnerships and Initiatives:
• Economic Diplomacy: Saudi Arabia actively participates in international economic forums, exemplified by its presence at the World Economic Forum and its engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which praised the Saudi Central Bank’s role in strengthening liquidity management. The Kingdom’s non-oil economy is growing rapidly, reinforcing its position in the global economic landscape. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role in enhancing the Kingdom’s status as a global financial and commercial hub [Previous conversation, 11, 206, 179].
• Environmental Leadership: Saudi Arabia hosted the 7th annual summit of the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds (IFSWF), themed “One Planet”, and welcomed the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). These initiatives underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, including the Saudi Green Initiative. The PIF has also issued green bonds [Previous conversation, 11].
• Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power: The Kingdom actively uses cultural initiatives and events to build bridges with the world and showcase its rich heritage. Projects like “Ithra” (King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture) engage in international cultural exchange, such as participating in design festivals in Spain and supporting artists who draw inspiration from Saudi heritage like “Sadu” weaving, which is recognized by UNESCO. The aim is to present a modern and bright image of the Kingdom, reflecting change, openness, and civilizational achievements.
• Humanitarian Aid: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief) plays a significant role in humanitarian and relief work during crises.
• Broader Themes in Global International Relations:
• Changing Global Order: The ongoing conflicts and economic shifts raise strategic questions about the potential birth of a multipolar world order versus the attempts by major powers to maintain their dominance.
• Economic Interests and Political Decisions: Economic factors are intertwined with political decisions, as evidenced by trade tensions between the US and China, their impact on global trade, and the influence of oil prices on international stability.
• Technological Advancement: The sources highlight the importance of digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and advanced technologies in various sectors, including government efficiency and financial technology (FinTech) [Previous conversation, 188, 32, 91, 92, 93, 104, 105, 123, 270]. This also extends to the use of technology in national security and border protection.
• Media and Perception: The digital age has transformed media into a powerful tool for shaping public opinion, with the risk of misinformation and emotional manipulation. It emphasizes the need for critical thinking, reliance on credible sources, and responsible sharing of information to counter the “chaos of reception” in the media landscape.

These trends collectively illustrate Saudi Arabia’s strategic pivot towards a more diversified and influential role in global affairs, driven by its national vision and a commitment to international cooperation.

Saudi Arabia’s Public Service Transformation Under Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is actively undertaking a comprehensive transformation of its public services, deeply intertwined with its ambitious Vision 2030 [Prev. Conv. 5, 14, 179, 216, 301, 313; 16, 74, 90, 139, 146, 192, 264, 312, 332, 333]. This national strategy aims to diversify the economy away from oil, foster sustainable development, and significantly enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents. The Kingdom is leveraging digital transformation and advanced technologies to achieve greater efficiency, transparency, and innovation across various sectors.

Here’s a discussion of key trends and developments in Saudi Arabia’s public services:

• Healthcare Services:
• The Kingdom provides comprehensive health services for pilgrims during Hajj, including hospitals, health centers, qualified medical staff, and modern technologies, ensuring a smooth and safe experience.
• King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC) is a leader in biotechnology, genomics, and precision medicine, actively participating in international forums like the BIO conference. It is integrating research into clinical care and contributing significantly to global genetic databases, particularly for rare genetic diseases.
• Mobile medical units are deployed across regions to improve maternity and childhood care, offering safe alternatives for childbirth and specialized training for medical teams.
• The General Authority of Food and Drug (SFDA) ensures quality standards by regulating conformity assessment bodies and applying strict measures against violations. There are concerns about medical insurance companies potentially delaying or refusing coverage for essential procedures like electronic probes for heart and diabetes patients.
• The Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group contributes to enhancing healthcare quality through extensive education, training, and rehabilitation programs.
• Education Services:
• The Ministry of Education is focused on improving the school environment and making learning attractive at all stages, as highlighted by the Shura Council’s review of its annual report.
• Saudi universities are adopting modern educational approaches, such as the “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” framework, to foster self-reliance, teamwork, and entrepreneurship among students. They have also achieved high global and regional rankings, with one university recognized as the best in the Middle East and Africa by Times Higher Education in 2024.
• The Kingdom is dedicated to empowering women in education and professional fields, building on historical initiatives like Sheikh Abdullah Al-Husseini’s efforts in women’s education. There is a noticeable increase in Saudi female students pursuing technical and engineering specializations.
• Urban Development and Infrastructure:
• Digital transformation is a cornerstone, with the Digital Government Authority reporting a substantial 18.75% growth in new government IT contracts in 2024, amounting to 38 billion SAR. This initiative aims to boost productivity, enhance government performance, and improve the beneficiary experience.
• Municipalities, such as Al-Basser Municipality in Buraidah, are undertaking extensive maintenance and rehabilitation projects to improve road networks and traffic safety.
• The Shura Council has urged the General Authority for Roads to develop performance indicators, create an investment map, and establish a digital platform for monitoring road conditions, emphasizing the provision of integrated rest stops on expressways. A national initiative is proposed to study and designate a “King Abdulaziz National Path” to connect all regions of the Kingdom, focusing on safety and reduced travel distances.
• Social and Humanitarian Welfare:
• The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief) plays a significant role in providing humanitarian aid and relief during crises [Prev. Conv. 335, 336, 337].
• The Kingdom actively supports various social initiatives, including honoring charitable societies for orphan care, such as “Rou’oum” in Rafha, which received an international excellence award.
• Programs like “Tamkeen” aim to empower widows by providing training, job opportunities, funding for small projects, and comprehensive psychological and legal support, helping them transition from dependency to productivity.
• There is a strong push to strengthen the non-profit sector, recognizing its potential to fill gaps in social care, education, and health. Ministries are collaborating to provide essential support, licenses, and technical assistance to these organizations.
• Security and Justice:
• The Border Guard has enhanced its capabilities with advanced technologies like the “Zali” system for securing borders and improving rapid response in field operations.
• Efforts are underway to rehabilitate and reintegrate inmates, with the General Directorate of Prisons partnering with associations to provide specialized programs.
• The judiciary is continually being developed, with attention given to ensuring justice and efficient task completion, as praised by the Grand Mufti during a visit to the Personal Status Court in Taif.
• Economic Diversification through Public Services:
• A major strategic objective is to establish a robust local automotive manufacturing industry, particularly focusing on electric vehicles. This initiative, strongly supported by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Ministry of Industry, aims to create jobs, foster local innovation, and reduce reliance on imports. Women are active participants in this evolving sector, from design to production.
• The Kingdom is also investing in smart cities and logistics infrastructure to support these new industries, with projects like NEOM aiming for zero-emission transportation systems integrating AI and autonomous vehicles.
• Environmental Stewardship:
• The National Center for Vegetation Development & Combating Desertification leads efforts in enhancing vegetation cover, combating desertification, and reducing carbon emissions, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, exemplified by hosting COP16.
• Royal Reserves Authorities are implementing strict environmental controls and requiring permits for visitors to protect natural ecosystems and prevent harmful practices.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s approach to public services is characterized by a strategic, integrated, and technology-driven vision aimed at achieving national prosperity, social well-being, and a leading position on the global stage.

Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Healthcare Landscape and Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia is actively undertaking a comprehensive transformation of its public services, with a significant focus on healthcare developments, deeply intertwined with its ambitious Vision 2030 [Prev. Conv. 313]. This national strategy aims to enhance the quality of life for citizens and residents, leveraging digital transformation and advanced technologies to achieve greater efficiency, transparency, and innovation across various sectors [Prev. Conv. 313].

Here are key trends and developments in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare services:

• Strategic Vision and Transformation
• The health transformation in the Kingdom is designed to enhance innovation, develop competencies, and improve legislation, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position in biotechnology and precision medicine regionally and globally.
• The overall approach to public services, including healthcare, is characterized by a strategic, integrated, and technology-driven vision aimed at national prosperity and social well-being [Prev. Conv. 313].
• Leading Institutions and Their Contributions
• King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC):
• Continues to be a leader in biotechnology, genomics, and precision medicine [Prev. Conv. 313, 135].
• Actively participates in international forums, such as the BIO 2025 conference in Boston, to showcase its expertise in leveraging biotechnology for innovation [Prev. Conv. 313, 135].
• It integrates research into clinical care by linking genomic data with phenotypic patterns to develop personalized treatments and innovative diagnostic models.
• KFSH&RC contributes approximately 10% of global entries to the OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) database for genetic mutations, highlighting its leading role in research on rare genetic diseases and genomic sciences worldwide.
• It is recognized among the top 250 healthcare institutions globally and 15th in the Middle East and Africa by Brand Finance (2024), and was listed among the best smart hospitals worldwide for 2025 by Newsweek.
• Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group:
• Contributes to enhancing healthcare quality through extensive education, training, and rehabilitation programs [Prev. Conv. 313].
• It organizes the 25th annual pediatrics course, accredited by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, aiming to enhance the skills and knowledge of medical, technical, nursing, and administrative staff.
• Qassim Health Cluster (King Fahd Specialist Hospital in Buraidah):
• A surgical team successfully performed an endoscopic intervention to save a pregnant woman and her fetus, treating severe laryngeal stenosis using a flexible bronchoscope and balloon dilation under local anesthesia, thereby avoiding traditional open surgery and general anesthesia.
• Service Expansion and Accessibility
• Mobile Medical Units: Are deployed across various regions, including Al-Baha, Qassim, and Najran, to enhance maternity and childhood care, offer safe childbirth alternatives, and provide specialized training for medical teams [Prev. Conv. 313, 186].
• Pharmaceutical Services: A conference for pharmacists and specialists is attracting experts to enhance evidence-based practices and empower specialists to develop their scientific and clinical skills, leading to an expansion of pharmaceutical services.
• “Your Eyes are a Trust” (عيونك أمانة) Initiative: Implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, this initiative focuses on promoting health awareness, offering free eye examinations, and distributing educational materials on early detection and prevention of eye diseases.
• Quality and Regulatory Oversight
• The General Authority of Food and Drug (SFDA):
• Plays a crucial role in ensuring quality standards by regulating conformity assessment bodies and implementing strict measures against violations [Prev. Conv. 313, 322, 323].
• It has imposed penalties, including the suspension of appointment for a conformity assessment body, due to multiple violations such as issuing certificates without ensuring products met technical regulations and failing to adhere to sampling procedures.
• The SFDA was awarded the silver prize in the 7th King Abdulaziz Quality Award for best quality practices in the government sector, reflecting its commitment to quality and institutional excellence.
• SFDA collaborates with the Saudi Numbering Center (GS1) to enhance consumer protection and transparency by improving product data and regulation in the Saudi market.
• Emerging Areas and Challenges
• Biological Sovereignty: The concept of “biological sovereignty” (السيادة البيولوجية) is a national imperative, emphasizing the Kingdom’s need to own and develop vital biological data and local genomic analysis programs. This aims to reduce reliance on foreign platforms for genetic data analysis, ensure data privacy, and prevent external entities from gaining competitive advantages by developing products tailored to local needs.
• Healthcare Tourism: The Kingdom is striving to become a leading destination for health and therapeutic tourism, supported by investments in healthcare infrastructure and specialized world-class hospitals for treatment, recovery, and relaxation.
• Medical Insurance Coverage Concerns: There are concerns that some medical insurance companies may be delaying or refusing coverage for essential medical procedures, such as electronic probes/sensors for heart and diabetes patients. The sources argue these devices are integral to treatment, for monitoring vital signs and blood sugar levels, and their denial could worsen patient conditions [Prev. Conv. 313, 262, 263].
• Common Health Conditions: The sources also provide information on the diagnosis and treatment of various common conditions:
• Oily Skin: Discusses causes and treatments including topical retinoids, astringents, masks, and isotretinoin.
• Flat Warts: Describes viral skin infections and treatment options like topical creams, cryotherapy, and vascular laser.
• Cervical Pigmentation: Mentions this condition requires several sessions for satisfactory results.
• Prostate Enlargement and Frequent Urination: Attributes these to factors like enlarged prostate, diabetes, infections, and anxiety, and lists various treatments.
• Male Infertility (Varicocele): A patient case highlights differing medical opinions on the necessity of surgery for varicocele and seminal fluid viscosity.
• Dental Orthodontics Market: Is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach $638.6 million by 2030 (8% CAGR), driven by increased awareness, technological advancements (AI and 3D printing), and a growing population. Both local and international companies are competing in this sector.
• Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
• The act of organ donation is honored, as demonstrated by the awarding of the King Abdulaziz Medal for a kidney donation, underscoring family ties and true citizenship in Saudi society consistent with Islamic principles.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Cultural Heritage and National Transformation

Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in a comprehensive transformation that places significant emphasis on cultural heritage developments, aligning deeply with its ambitious Vision 2030 [Prev. Conv. 313, 20799.pdf, 2, 295]. This national strategy aims to enhance the quality of life, diversify the economy beyond oil, and leverage advanced technologies to foster greater efficiency, transparency, and innovation across various sectors, with culture playing a pivotal role [Prev. Conv. 313, 20799.pdf, 295, 296].

Key aspects and developments in Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage include:

• Strategic Vision and Transformation:
• The Kingdom’s overall approach is characterized by a strategic, integrated, and technology-driven vision aimed at national prosperity and social well-being, with culture now considered a vital component of its foreign policy and economic diversification [Prev. Conv. 313, 20800.pdf, 103, 104, 267, 268, 295].
• Cultural heritage is no longer viewed as a mere luxury but as one of the state’s languages, re-establishing identity, aesthetics, and general taste through soft power tools [20801.pdf, 189].
• The aim is to become a global, civilized tourist destination that embraces its roots while engaging with the world in the language of the future [20800.pdf, 106].
• Leading Institutions and Initiatives:
• Ministry of Culture: Responsible for launching initiatives like the “National Cultural Awards,” which honors creative achievements in various cultural fields [20800.pdf, 91].
• Heritage Authority: Launched the national awareness campaign “Aadat” to highlight the importance of antiquities in strengthening Saudi cultural identity and as witnesses to historical eras [20801.pdf, 149].
• National Program for Empowering Handicraft Projects: This program is dedicated to transforming Saudi Arabia’s traditional handicraft heritage into sustainable economic projects, thereby preserving cultural heritage and national identity. It aims to boost the economic and social impact of handicrafts, foster innovation, create a stimulating entrepreneurial environment, and strengthen connections with supporting entities [20800.pdf, 93].
• The General Authority of Food and Drug (SFDA): While primarily regulatory for food and medicine, its role in ensuring quality standards and institutional excellence (evidenced by the King Abdulaziz Quality Award) contributes to a stable environment that supports broader national development, including cultural initiatives [Prev. Conv. 313, 322, 323].
• Tourism Ministry: Works to enhance tourism quality and attract visitors, which inherently supports cultural sites and experiences [20801.pdf, 128].
• Specific Examples of Cultural Heritage:
• Historical and Archaeological Sites:
• AlUla and Mada’in Salih (Al Hijr) are prominent historical and cultural destinations, undergoing development for integrated and sustainable cultural tourism [20799.pdf, 9, 13].
• Historic Jeddah and the deserts of Najd offer unique historical and atmospheric experiences [20799.pdf, 18].
• Mecca and Medina: As religious sites, they are central to the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, embodying profound spiritual heritage [20799.pdf, 9]. The Prophet’s Mosque, for instance, undergoes extensive preparation and sanitation to accommodate pilgrims [20800.pdf, 64, 210].
• The Shura Council emphasizes the importance of maintaining and cleaning mosques and their endowments, recognizing them as vital religious heritage sites [20804.pdf, 243].
• “Na’man Valley” in Mecca is noted for its natural, environmental, and historical components, linked to the Kaaba and serving as a historical witness to the Hijaz region, with a history of hosting pilgrim caravans [20803.pdf, 213, 214].
• Traditional Arts and Crafts:
• Al Sadu: Recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, it is seen as a living expression of place memory and Bedouin language, rooted in deep cultural significance. Its revival is a testament to rebuilding identity on strong foundations [20801.pdf, 188].
• Rock Art in Hail: Provides historical documentation etched in stone, depicting ancient life [20800.pdf, 95].
• Various crafts like dagger-making and traditional weaving (Al-Asaba) in the South, palm frond baskets and gold crafting in the Eastern Province, and traditional textile work for tents in Najd, reflect daily life and artistic expression across the Kingdom’s diverse regions [20801.pdf, 281].
• Al-Rawashin: Represents traditional Saudi wooden architecture, adapted to local climatic conditions [20801.pdf, 222].
• The making of the Kiswa of the Kaaba showcases Saudi craftsmanship, involving silk, silver, and gold threads [20804.pdf, 286].
• Cultural Expressions:
• The Hijazi Musical School is highlighted for its historical distinctiveness and blend of authenticity and modernity [20800.pdf, 96].
• The relationship between architecture and music is described as fundamentally “cultural,” with shared deep roots in local traditions that drive innovation and continuity [20800.pdf, 101, 102].
• Literary events, such as the poetry evenings hosted by Jazan’s House of Culture, support the literary movement and regional cultural scene [20803.pdf, 221].
• “Al Qatt Al Asiri” is noted as a unique art form specific to the Asir region [20803.pdf, 211].
• The Saudi Arabic language is affirmed as a living, evolving entity, capable of conveying profound emotion and beauty. However, the rise of English in technology and AI presents a challenge to Arabic’s standing [20805.pdf, 337, 339].
• Cultural Heritage’s Role in National Identity, Economy, and Diplomacy:
• National Identity: Cultural heritage is considered integral to national identity, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s authentic image and contributing to a balanced global perception [20799.pdf, 18, 20801.pdf, 188, 189].
• Economic Diversification: Cultural and heritage tourism, along with handicraft projects, are pivotal for economic diversification, job creation, and reducing reliance on oil [20799.pdf, 2, 4, 20800.pdf, 93, 20801.pdf, 281].
• Soft Power and Diplomacy: Culture is increasingly recognized as a tool of global influence and strategic necessity. Saudi diplomacy draws strength from its cultural and historical heritage, emphasizing values like hospitality and wisdom to build alliances and transform international perceptions [20800.pdf, 103, 104, 268, 20801.pdf, 189, 281].
• Quality of Life: Investments in infrastructure and public spaces, such as King Salman Park, support recreational activities and social well-being, indirectly fostering cultural engagement [20802.pdf, 170, 172].
• Challenges and Opportunities:
• Challenges include addressing the lack of services and promoting less developed tourist areas [20799.pdf, 3], developing qualified national cadres in tourism and hospitality [20799.pdf, 4, 14], and balancing tourism growth with traditional cultural values [20799.pdf, 4]. The dominance of English in technological fields also poses a challenge for the Arabic language [20805.pdf, 339].
• Opportunities arise from substantial investments in tourism infrastructure and mega-projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea [20799.pdf, 5, 346], the growth of domestic tourism [20799.pdf, 2], and the empowerment of local entrepreneurs, including Saudi women, in the tourism and handicraft sectors [20799.pdf, 5, 19, 20, 20800.pdf, 93]. There’s also the integration of advanced technologies, such as AI and 3D printing, into fields like dental orthodontics, which can relate to cultural aesthetics [20799.pdf, 31].

The overall narrative emphasizes a holistic approach where cultural heritage is deeply interwoven with national identity, economic strategy, and global positioning, illustrating Saudi Arabia’s commitment to showcasing its rich past and dynamic future.

Middle East Conflicts and Global Implications

Regional conflicts continue to be a significant challenge, creating geopolitical instability and impacting various aspects of global well-being, particularly in the Middle East [20799.pdf, 78, 20801.pdf, 165, 20802.pdf, 172, 185, 186, 195, 354]. The sources highlight several active conflicts and tensions, along with their far-reaching consequences and the diplomatic efforts to address them.

Key regional conflicts and related developments include:

• Iran-Israel Tensions:
• The recent conflict between Iran and Israel, lasting twelve days, raised global concerns due to its potential for escalation and wider regional impact [20805.pdf, 297].
• This conflict involved missile strikes and raised questions about Iran’s nuclear program, with conflicting reports from the US (claiming its termination) and Iran (claiming prior evacuation of nuclear sites) [20805.pdf, 297].
• The confrontation led to heightened tension, disrupted oil supplies, and triggered fears of inflation, particularly if key shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz were closed [20799.pdf, 79, 80, 141, 20802.pdf, 185, 186, 232].
• Israel’s military actions, despite significant US aid, have faced “attrition” challenges, with reports indicating a substantial expenditure on defense systems like the “Iron Dome” [20799.pdf, 161].
• Saudi Arabia has consistently urged de-escalation and restraint, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions to avoid further regional instability [20801.pdf, 118, 137].
• Gaza/Palestine Conflict:
• The situation in Gaza remains dire, with Israeli forces launching attacks in areas like Rafah, leading to civilian casualties and significant destruction [20800.pdf, 89, 90, 20803.pdf, 273].
• There is a severe humanitarian crisis, including critical shortages of medical supplies, with up to 48.7% of essential laboratory items and 48.2% of consumables in Gaza’s health ministry having low reserves [20800.pdf, 149].
• The conflict has also involved settler violence, house demolitions, and displacement in other Palestinian territories [20800.pdf, 90, 20803.pdf, 274].
• International calls, including from Saudi Arabia, have been made for a ceasefire, release of prisoners, lifting of the blockade, and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches affected populations without interruption [20800.pdf, 257, 20803.pdf, 273].
• Syrian Conflict:
• The Syrian government faces difficult conditions, including a “destroyed and plundered country” and a “paralyzed economy” due to foreign interventions and sanctions [20800.pdf, 210].
• Efforts are underway to rebuild what the war has destroyed, focusing on providing essential supplies and lifting sanctions with the help of friendly nations like Saudi Arabia [20800.pdf, 210].
• The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has affirmed its solidarity with Syria in combating terrorism, condemning recent attacks [20802.pdf, 195].
• International warnings persist regarding foreign powers “fuelling the flames of war” in Sudan by supplying weapons to warring factions [20803.pdf, 277].
• Sudan Conflict:
• A recent attack on a hospital in Sudan resulted in over 40 casualties, including children and healthcare workers [20803.pdf, 236].
• The Sudanese government has accused Kenya of supplying weapons to the Rapid Support Forces, deeming it a “gross violation of international law and principles of good neighborliness” [20803.pdf, 277].
• The UN Secretary-General has repeatedly called for a halt to external support and the flow of weapons into Sudan [20803.pdf, 277].
• Yemen (Houthi Attacks):
• Houthi forces in Yemen have utilized low-cost drones to target commercial cargo ships and military vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, further escalating regional tensions [20802.pdf, 153].

Broader Implications and Diplomatic Responses:

• Economic Impact: The ongoing geopolitical tensions contribute to global economic instability, leading to inflation, disruptions in production, infrastructure damage, and restricted trade, which in turn cause supply shortages and sharp price increases [20799.pdf, 78, 184, 20802.pdf, 184].
• Humanitarian Concerns: Conflicts exacerbate humanitarian crises, leading to increased numbers of casualties, displaced populations, and severe shortages of basic necessities [20800.pdf, 149, 20803.pdf, 273].
• Diplomatic Stance: Saudi Arabia, along with other Gulf and Arab states, consistently advocates for de-escalation, peaceful resolution of disputes, adherence to international law, respect for national sovereignty, and non-interference in internal affairs [20801.pdf, 118, 137, 20802.pdf, 172, 173, 195, 20803.pdf, 218, 219].
• Geopolitical Shifts: The rapid changes in the global landscape, marked by these conflicts, raise fundamental questions about the emergence of a multipolar world versus attempts by major powers to maintain their dominance [20801.pdf, 165]. These dynamics necessitate a deep, integrated understanding to define the position of nations and peoples amidst these transformations [20801.pdf, 165].

Overall, the sources portray a region grappling with complex and interconnected conflicts, where calls for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian aid are constant, set against a backdrop of significant economic and geopolitical pressures.

Saudi Arabia’s Economic Transformation: Vision 2030 in Action

The Saudi Arabian economy is undergoing a significant transformation, primarily driven by Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy away from oil and enhance the contribution of non-oil sectors to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) [20799.pdf, 9, 22, 20805.pdf, 324, 341]. This strategic shift is designed to create sustainable economic growth, foster job opportunities, and build a more resilient and innovative economy [20799.pdf, 4, 20802.pdf, 209].

Key Economic Performance and Outlook:

• The Saudi economy is projected to achieve stronger-than-expected growth, with an anticipated 4.4% GDP growth in 2025 for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries [20802.pdf, 189].
• There has been a remarkable increase in non-oil revenues, which grew by 175% to reach 457.8 billion Saudi Riyals (SAR) by the end of 2023, showcasing the effectiveness of Vision 2030’s goals [20802.pdf, 184]. The long-term target is to reach approximately 4.9 trillion SAR in non-oil GDP by 2030 [20802.pdf, 184].

Key Sectors Driving Diversification:

• Tourism:
• The Kingdom has made substantial progress in boosting domestic tourism, with a notable increase in local visitors due to the launch of entertainment and cultural events like Riyadh Season, Jeddah Season, and AlUla Season [20799.pdf, 2, 5].
• Massive investments have been channeled into developing tourism infrastructure, including mega-projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, Amaala, and the Red Sea Project [20799.pdf, 5, 9].
• These efforts aim to position Saudi Arabia as a global tourism hub, attracting millions of visitors [20799.pdf, 6, 7, 169]. In fact, the country recorded a record 116 million tourists with expenditures exceeding 284 billion SAR [20801.pdf, 131].
• Safety and security are highlighted as fundamental pillars for tourism attraction [20799.pdf, 1].
• Automotive Manufacturing (Electric Vehicles):
• Saudi Arabia is striving to become a regional center for the automotive industry by 2030-2035, with a strong focus on electric vehicles (EVs) [20805.pdf, 324, 328].
• “Ceer Motors,” the Kingdom’s first national EV brand (a joint venture with Foxconn), aims to produce about 170,000 electric cars annually by the middle of the next decade, create 30,000 jobs (direct and indirect), and attract foreign investments of approximately $100 billion by 2030 [20805.pdf, 317, 321].
• Another key investment is by Lucid Motors, which has invested over $3.4 billion to establish a manufacturing plant in Jeddah, with an initial production capacity of 170,000 vehicles annually [20805.pdf, 321].
• This sector is expected to contribute approximately 30 billion SAR (around $8 billion) to the national GDP by 2034 [20805.pdf, 317].
• The goal is to transition from being primarily a consumer of imported cars to a producer and exporter of high-value technologies, fostering a new industrial culture and spirit of leadership among Saudi youth [20805.pdf, 332, 336, 337].
• Digital Government and Technology:
• The government’s spending on information technology and communications reached 38 billion SAR in 2024, marking an 18.75% increase from the previous year [20804.pdf, 267].
• The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is leading the digital transformation initiatives, including the “SAMAI” initiative, which aims to empower one million Saudis with AI tools through advanced training programs in partnership with leading global technology companies [20802.pdf, 183, 185].
• The Kingdom is also witnessing rapid growth in the Financial Technology (FinTech) sector, supported by a favorable regulatory environment [20802.pdf, 183].
• Financial Sector:
• The financial sector in Saudi Arabia is characterized by stability and activity, with notable growth in digital banking services under the supervision of the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) [20802.pdf, 183].
• SAMA is seen as a vital tool for achieving the Kingdom’s economic ambitions and reinforcing its position as a major economic force within the G20 [20802.pdf, 209].
• The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial role in encouraging the listing of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) [20802.pdf, 183].
• Esports:
• Saudi Arabia’s role in the global esports scene is expanding, highlighted by its hosting of the Esports World Cup [20800.pdf, 53].
• The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region boasts approximately 559 million gamers, with 73% of the population watching esports competitions monthly, underscoring the sector’s growing importance [20800.pdf, 54]. Cristiano Ronaldo has also been named a global ambassador for the Esports World Cup [20800.pdf, 55].
• Healthcare and Biotechnology:
• King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) is showcasing Saudi leadership in biotechnology, focusing on precision medicine and leveraging genomic data for research [20801.pdf, 122, 123].
• A national bio-bank is being established to collect biological samples linked with health data to create a knowledge base for research and healthcare planning, addressing various health challenges from genetic to chronic and infectious diseases [20800.pdf, 79, 80].
• The dental alignment market in the Kingdom is also projected to grow significantly, reaching $638.6 million by 2030 [20799.pdf, 31].

Investment and Private Sector Engagement:

• The government is actively incentivizing private sector participation through various programs and initiatives to reduce risks and provide attractive incentives [20801.pdf, 135, 137].
• The PIF has notably financed over 2,400 direct and indirect tourism projects, valued at over 35 billion SAR [20799.pdf, 9].
• The Kingdom’s investment strategy is supported by an “unlimited budget” for tourism growth [20799.pdf, 11] and significant strategic investments in infrastructure [20799.pdf, 5].

Challenges and Considerations:

• Global Economic Instability: Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, contribute to global economic instability, leading to inflation, disruptions in production, and volatile oil prices [20799.pdf, 78, 184, 20800.pdf, 74, 75, 76, 20801.pdf, 131, 132, 133, 155, 20802.pdf, 187, 188, 228].
• Cost of Domestic Travel: High costs for transportation, tickets, and events remain a barrier for many families to travel domestically [20799.pdf, 4].
• Skilled Workforce: There is an acknowledged shortage of trained national cadres in emerging sectors like tourism and automotive manufacturing [20799.pdf, 4, 16, 20805.pdf, 326]. Efforts are underway to develop educational and academic systems to cultivate specialized competencies [20799.pdf, 16].
• Unemployment: Despite achieving a historically low unemployment rate of 7% in 2024 (compared to 12.3% at the end of 2018), challenges persist for many job seekers in finding suitable positions [20804.pdf, 270].
• AI Adoption: While rapid, the adoption of Artificial Intelligence requires synchronized development in education, legislation, and governance to realize its full potential [20800.pdf, 96, 97].

In conclusion, the Saudi economy is actively pursuing a diversified and sustainable future through robust investments and strategic initiatives across various sectors, even amidst global and regional challenges.

Saudi Women: Driving Vision 2030 Transformation

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound social and economic transformation, with women’s empowerment being a central pillar of its ambitious Vision 2030 [20799.pdf, 24, 26, 20805.pdf, 334]. This strategic choice is driven by an internal conviction rather than external pressures, aiming to build a diversified national economy that fully integrates all national capabilities [20801.pdf, 262, 268, 20799.pdf, 26].

Key aspects of women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia include:

• Economic Participation and Job Creation:
• Tourism Sector: The Kingdom has made significant strides in boosting domestic tourism, which has directly led to increased employment opportunities for women. Hundreds of thousands of Saudi women have benefited from rehabilitation and training programs in the tourism sector, contributing to 30-38% Saudization of roles within the industry [20799.pdf, 1]. This includes positions in hospitality, entertainment, transport, marketing, and logistics [20799.pdf, 15].
• Automotive Manufacturing (Electric Vehicles): Saudi women are becoming active partners in shaping a sustainable future for the automotive industry, moving beyond being mere consumers to contributing to research, engineering, and the production of smart and eco-friendly transport models [20805.pdf, 332, 335, 341]. There’s a notable increasing interest among Saudi women in purchasing electric and hybrid cars, driven by environmental awareness and a desire to adopt the latest innovations [20805.pdf, 332, 333]. The presence of women in sectors previously dominated by men, such as automotive manufacturing, signifies a qualitative shift [20805.pdf, 341, 342].
• FinTech and Digital Transformation: The financial technology (FinTech) sector is experiencing rapid growth, supported by a favorable regulatory environment, creating new avenues for women’s participation [20802.pdf, 183]. Initiatives like “SAMAI” by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) aim to empower one million Saudis, including women, with AI tools through advanced training [20802.pdf, 183, 185, 20799.pdf, 1, 16].
• Overall Employment: The Kingdom has achieved a historically low unemployment rate of 7% for Saudis in 2024, down from 12.3% in 2018. This reduction is attributed to the expansion of various economic sectors and collaborative government efforts with the private sector to create jobs [20804.pdf, 290].
• Social and Cultural Transformation:
• Right to Drive: The decision in 2018 to allow women to drive was a qualitative shift in transport culture, laying the groundwork for broader participation in mobility solutions [20805.pdf, 332, 335].
• Breaking Stereotypes: Women’s active roles in emerging sectors challenge traditional perceptions, demonstrating that their work does not conflict with societal values but rather aligns with them [20799.pdf, 25, 26]. There is a growing societal acceptance of women’s roles, supported by official endorsement and public campaigns [20799.pdf, 26, 27].
• Cultural Ambassadors: Saudi women are actively contributing to promoting local heritage and tourism through social media, showcasing the Kingdom’s diverse offerings [20799.pdf, 19, 20].
• Leadership and Decision-Making Roles:
• Diplomacy: Saudi women have redefined the diplomatic landscape, moving beyond symbolic presence to become active players in international negotiations [20801.pdf, 260]. Their presence adds a human and cultural dimension to Saudi diplomacy, enhancing the Kingdom’s global image [20801.pdf, 260, 261]. This includes the appointment of the first Saudi female ambassador, representation in UN organizations, and leadership of diplomatic missions in pivotal countries [20801.pdf, 262]. Women in diplomacy are seen as agents of balance and peacemaking, bringing diverse perspectives to conflict resolution [20801.pdf, 263, 264].
• Government and Public Sector: Women are increasingly taking on executive positions in various ministries and government entities, including the Ministry of Tourism and other project development committees [20799.pdf, 27]. This also extends to female leadership in the health sector, where figures like those at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) are leveraging genomic data for precision medicine and establishing national bio-banks [20801.pdf, 122, 123, 20800.pdf, 79, 80].
• Private Sector and Entrepreneurship: The government actively encourages small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) led by citizens, including women entrepreneurs [20799.pdf, 18, 22].
• Education and Training Initiatives:
• There is a strong focus on developing educational and academic systems to cultivate specialized competencies in new and emerging sectors [20799.pdf, 16].
• Universities, like King Khalid University, are launching specialized training programs for students, graduates, and professionals to develop skills in digital technologies, media, and English, supporting human development and employment opportunities [20801.pdf, 137].
• Efforts are also underway to boost female enrollment in technical and engineering specializations, reflecting changing societal views and state support [20805.pdf, 343].
• Support Systems:
• Government and private entities are working to create safe and stimulating work environments for women [20799.pdf, 30, 31].
• There are programs to support working families and address work-life balance challenges [20802.pdf, 197].
• Support for widows includes employment, training, and comprehensive social and psychological care [20801.pdf, 140].

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s approach to women’s empowerment is comprehensive, strategically integrated into its national vision, and focused on enabling women to be active and influential partners in the Kingdom’s economic, social, and cultural development [20805.pdf, 334, 335].

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Wealth Growth

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a strategy of wealth growth and economic diversification as a central pillar of its ambitious Vision 2030 [20799.pdf, 24, 26, 20805.pdf, 334]. This transformation is driven by an internal conviction to build a diversified national economy that fully integrates all national capabilities, moving away from sole reliance on oil [20801.pdf, 262, 268, 20799.pdf, 26, 235, 236, 20805.pdf, 337, 339, 346].

Key aspects and drivers of Saudi Arabia’s wealth growth include:

• Non-Oil Sector Growth and Diversification:
• The Kingdom has achieved a historically low unemployment rate of 7% for Saudis in 2024, down from 12.3% in 2018, attributed to the expansion of various economic sectors and collaborative government efforts with the private sector to create jobs [20804.pdf, 297].
• There has been a significant increase in non-oil activities, rising by 5.3% in 2024 compared to 2023, due to the improved performance across all non-oil economic activities [20802.pdf, 191, 200]. This growth validates Vision 2030’s initiatives aimed at diversifying income sources and reducing dependence on oil [20802.pdf, 200, 201].
• Non-oil revenues have shown remarkable growth, increasing by up to 175% to reach 457.8 billion Saudi Riyals by the end of 2023 [20802.pdf, 201].
• The Kingdom’s non-oil economy is projected to grow by 5.2% in 2025, driven by expansion in sectors like construction and trade [20802.pdf, 214].
• Strategic Investments and Sector Development:
• Tourism: Saudi Arabia has made substantial progress in boosting domestic tourism, with a continuous growth in the number of local visitors and significant investments in tourism projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea project [20799.pdf, 1]. The Kingdom aims to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from 3% to 10% by 2030 and attract 100 million visitors annually [20799.pdf, 12]. Billions of dollars are being invested in these ambitious tourism projects [20799.pdf, 12]. International evaluations have noted Saudi Arabia’s rapid rise, making it the 13th globally in terms of international visitor numbers in 2023, receiving over 27 million international tourists [20799.pdf, 8]. The total tourism expenditure for incoming visitors reached 168.5 billion Saudi Riyals (approximately $45 billion) in 2024 [20801.pdf, 130].
• Automotive Industry: Saudi Arabia is establishing a comprehensive national automotive industry, focusing on electric vehicles and future technologies [20805.pdf, 332, 337, 339]. This includes the establishment of Ceer Motors, the first Saudi electric vehicle company, a joint venture between the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Foxconn, supported by BMW [20805.pdf, 332, 339]. Agreements with global companies like Lucid Motors are also in place to build full-scale production plants [20805.pdf, 332, 335].
• Financial Technology (FinTech): The FinTech sector is experiencing rapid growth, supported by a favorable regulatory environment [20802.pdf, 199]. Initiatives like “SAMAI” aim to empower one million Saudis, including women, with AI tools through advanced training, creating new avenues for participation in digital transformation [20802.pdf, 183, 185, 203, 20799.pdf, 1, 16].
• Clean Energy and Sustainable Finance: The Kingdom is making significant strides in sustainable finance, with green bond issuances by Saudi companies reaching nearly $8 billion in 2023, up from $1 billion in 2019 [20799.pdf, 28]. Global investment in clean technologies is expected to reach a record $2.2 trillion in 2025 [20801.pdf, 136, 139]. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in renewable energy, including solar, wind, hydropower, and nuclear power [20801.pdf, 137].
• Startup Ecosystem: Saudi Arabia has achieved a new global ranking, climbing to 23rd place among the top 100 countries in the global startup ecosystem in 2025 [20801.pdf, 134]. This reflects the Kingdom’s developed entrepreneurial environment, supported by legislative reforms and capital investment [20801.pdf, 134].
• Role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF):
• The PIF is a major global investor and plays a pivotal role in enabling new sectors that contribute to shaping the global economy and driving Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation [20802.pdf, 190, 233].
• The PIF is committed to its social responsibility, aiming to improve the quality of life through investments in recreation, tourism, and housing sectors [20801.pdf, 236]. It also supports national talent through training and educational initiatives [20801.pdf, 236].
• The PIF has launched new financing programs and has received positive credit ratings from international agencies like Moody’s and Fitch [20802.pdf, 189, 190].
• International Confidence and Market Performance:
• Global investors are increasingly looking towards the Gulf region, including Saudi Arabia, due to its economic reforms and growth programs [20800.pdf, 78].
• Saudi Arabia led IPO activities in the region during the first quarter of the year, despite a slowdown in global issuance activities [20800.pdf, 79].
• The Kingdom’s credit rating has been upgraded by Standard & Poor’s to A+, indicating positive investor sentiment [20802.pdf, 215, 216].
• Challenges and External Factors:
• While the focus is on diversification, fluctuations in oil prices and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East can still impact the economic outlook and investor confidence [20800.pdf, 74, 75, 77, 20802.pdf, 204, 205, 206, 208, 209, 20803.pdf, 252, 253, 254].
• The potential for oil price increases due to supply disruptions remains a concern [20800.pdf, 75, 77, 20802.pdf, 204, 205].
• Challenges also exist in terms of skilled labor shortages in emerging sectors like automotive manufacturing, and the need to localize supply chains for critical components [20805.pdf, 333, 336, 337].

In summary, Saudi Arabia’s wealth growth is being strategically driven by Vision 2030 through massive investments in diversified non-oil sectors, supported by strong government initiatives, the strategic role of the Public Investment Fund, and increasing international investor confidence [20799.pdf, 1, 12, 28, 20801.pdf, 134, 235, 236, 20802.pdf, 191, 199, 200, 20805.pdf, 332, 337, 339, 346].

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

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