Al-Riyadh Newspaper, August 3, 2025: A Saudi Vision of Progress

This collection of texts from “20836.pdf” offers a multi-faceted overview of Saudi Arabia’s progressive advancements and strategic priorities. Several articles highlight the nation’s economic diversification beyond oil, showcasing growth in non-oil revenues and a commitment to Vision 2030, which emphasizes sustainable development and quality of life initiatives. The sources also touch upon international relations and humanitarian efforts, detailing nuclear talks with Iran, the Kingdom’s unwavering support for Palestine, and global aid projects. Furthermore, they feature cultural and tourism initiatives, such as the Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year and the development of natural attractions like Al-Shifa, alongside discussions on technological integration, particularly regarding the impact of artificial intelligence across various sectors.

Podcast

Saudi Vision 2030: Economic Transformation and Diversification

The Saudi economy is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to diversify income sources and build a sustainable and robust economic future.

Overall Economic Performance and Vision 2030: The Kingdom is moving at an astonishing pace towards a future that aligns with Vision 2030, reaching the ranks of developed nations. The Saudi economy is described as resilient, built on strong and robust economic and financial foundations, capable of adapting to challenges and global economic fluctuations. Economic development is considered a fundamental pillar of progress for nations. The government is committed to implementing economic and financial reform plans within the framework of Vision 2030 to achieve long-term financial sustainability.

Shift from Oil Dependency: A key aspect of this transformation is the reduced reliance on oil prices dictating the economic pace. The Kingdom’s leadership, particularly Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, articulated this vision by stating, “Oil is not our destiny, and the future belongs to those who chart it with their will, not to those who await it anxiously”.

• Non-Oil Revenue Growth: In the second quarter of 2025, total revenues reached approximately 302 billion riyals. While influenced by a decrease in oil prices, non-oil revenues notably increased to 150 billion riyals, showing a growth of 7% compared to the same period in the previous year. For the first half of 2025, non-oil revenues reached 264 billion riyals, an increase of 5% compared to the 252 billion riyals in the first half of 2024. This indicates a strategic shift towards diversified income sources.
• Fiscal Management: Total expenditures in Q2 2025 were around 336 billion riyals, a 9% decrease from the same period last year. Despite recording a deficit of 35 billion riyals in Q2 2025, it is considered a non-concerning deficit, but rather a strategic decision to invest in major national projects and lay the foundation for future decades. This deficit is seen not as a drain, but as a strategic decision balancing sustainability and opportunities, redefining government spending as a tool for future building rather than merely managing the present. The increase in non-oil revenues has contributed to mitigating the impact of declining oil revenues.

Key Economic Indicators (Q2 2025):

• Consumer Spending: Rose by approximately 9.1% during the first two months of Q2 (April and May), reaching about 304.4 billion riyals, reflecting increased consumer confidence in the local economy’s strength.
• Non-Oil Exports (excluding re-exports): Grew by 24.6% for April 2025, reaching approximately 28.4 billion riyals, indicating sustained improvement in the industrial sector and re-export activities.
• E-commerce Indicator: Jumped by 63.1%.
• SADAD Payments: Showed a growth of 28%.
• Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI): Remained above the 50-point level for over four consecutive years, indicating continuous expansion in economic activity and consistent market confidence.
• Unemployment Rate: Among Saudis historically decreased to 6.3%, demonstrating the success of employment programs and the private sector’s transformation into a genuine economic engine.
• Real GDP Growth: Achieved 3.4% in Q1 2025, driven by a 4.9% growth in non-oil activities, despite a slight 0.5% decline in oil activities. Forecasts point to continued positive GDP growth for the rest of the year.

Key Sectors and Development Initiatives: The Saudi economy’s diversification efforts are evident across various sectors:

• Industrial Sector: The Eastern Province is home to 6 industrial cities under the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (“MODON”), covering over 40 million square meters of developed land and housing more than 1,850 industrial, investment, and logistical facilities. Recent projects include multi-story factories in Dammam’s First Industrial City, offering 78 industrial units across 8 floors to empower entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises. Another project in Dammam’s Second Industrial City involves building 84 ready-made factories for light industries, supporting various sectors like food, medical, pharmaceutical, electrical, and electronics, alongside 3D printing technologies. These initiatives align with Vision 2030’s goals to enhance local content and industrial competitiveness.
• Healthcare Sector:King Salman Medical City in Madinah: Features an advanced placenta treatment center, the first of its kind in the Middle East, enhancing response speed, reducing complications, and improving safety for mothers and newborns. The city has also expanded emergency departments and introduced a rapid triage area.
• Advanced Radiology Center: Expanded by 200% with new devices for surgical interventions and a modern fluoroscopy device for precise diagnostic techniques.
• Diabetic Foot Treatment Center: The first of its kind in the Western Province.
• King Salman Dialysis Center: Equipped to the highest standards, including high-purity dialysate.
• Medical Air Evacuation: Seven air evacuation helipads are strategically distributed across the Madinah region’s hospitals, bringing the total to 15, to enhance rapid response for critical cases.
• Strategic Partnerships: The “Kilana” Kidney Failure Patients Charitable Association signed an agreement with the Ministry of Health to provide 50 modern dialysis machines across the Kingdom, reinforcing partnerships between government, non-profit, and community sectors to enhance healthcare services.
• Health City Status: King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre in Madinah received recognition from the World Health Organization for the second time as a “Healthy City” for 2025, meeting over 80 WHO criteria. This underscores its role in enhancing public health and achieving Vision 2030 targets.
• Tourism and Entertainment:Jeddah Waterfronts: Five waterfronts offer integrated facilities, pedestrian walkways, fountains, and cycling paths, enhancing recreational options and reflecting integrated urban planning. Projects to improve the urban landscape, including over 443 parks, transform open spaces into green environments.
• Al Shafa, Taif: A prominent tourist destination known for its stunning mountain nature, high altitude, and mild climate, making it an ideal summer escape. It offers activities like hiking, horse riding, and visits to rural farms.
• Al Bukeiriyah Projects (Al-Qassim): Witnessed the inauguration of development, health, charitable, municipal, tourism, and energy projects totaling over 200 million riyals. These include the development of the old town, the Saq Mountain path (a new tourist destination), and the Al-Suwailem heritage palace. It also includes the launch of a rural farm as a recreational and tourist destination.
• Cultural Events: The Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year 2025 included the “Art of the Kingdom: Poetic Illuminations” exhibition at the Chinese National Museum in Beijing, showcasing contemporary Saudi art and fostering cultural exchange.
• Brida Dates Carnival: An annual event in Al-Qassim, featuring over 100 farmers and traders showcasing various date types. In its last edition, sales reached over 3.2 billion riyals, with over 800,000 visitors, highlighting the region’s agricultural wealth.
• Logistics and Infrastructure:Serwat Mountain Passes (Southern Region): These passes, with over 28 mountain roads, bridges, and tunnels, are critical logistical arteries connecting the Tihamah plains and the western coast with the Sarawat highlands. They are vital for economic development, trade, and tourism.
• Air Traffic Management: Saudi airspace saw record-breaking air traffic during the Hajj season 1446 AH (2025), with over 140,000 domestic and international movements. This reflects the high readiness of the civil aviation system and efficient coordination among relevant authorities.
• Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI):The Kingdom is striving to be a leader in AI, investing in innovative technological projects to improve quality of life and support the knowledge economy.
• AI is seen as a “blessing” for humanity if guided towards good, enhancing efficiency and accelerating work, especially in industry. It offers sustainable solutions in energy, agriculture, climate, and service improvement.
• The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) reportedly uses AI in its operations to ensure food safety and improve outcomes.
• There is a discussion about the potential threat of AI, particularly regarding job displacement and data ownership, and the need for ethical and legal frameworks to govern AI development and deployment.

Outlook: The Kingdom continues to make significant achievements, cementing its position as a global leader in growth and innovation. Saudi Arabia is driving towards a sustainable economic future, led by its people’s creativity and innovations. The current sports season is expected to be very strong due to the high readiness of teams and the influx of top players and coaches, indicating a vibrant sports economy.

The Saudi economy is not just about financial figures, but about a real pulse that can be heard in the markets and seen in the eyes of the people and the confidence of investors.

Oil Market Fluctuations and Global Trade Impacts

The oil market has recently experienced significant fluctuations, particularly an overall decline in oil prices during the second quarter of 2025, which has impacted global trade. This downturn is attributed to several interconnected factors, including concerns about potential supply increases from OPEC+ and the geopolitical implications of new tariffs and sanctions.

Oil Prices and Contributing Factors:

• Price Decline: In the second quarter of 2025, oil prices fell by approximately $2 per barrel. Brent crude futures stabilized at $69.67 per barrel, a drop of $2.03 or 2.83%, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude closed at $67.33 per barrel, down $1.93 or 2.79%. For the first quarter of 2025, the average price for global Brent crude was about $67 per barrel, compared to $75 in the first quarter and $85 a year prior.
• OPEC+ Production: Sources indicate that OPEC+ might reach an agreement to increase production by 548,000 barrels per day in September. Discussions regarding the exact volume of this increase are ongoing, with the possibility of a smaller rise.
• Demand Concerns:A weaker-than-expected U.S. jobs report fueled concerns about oil demand. The U.S. economy added 73,000 non-farm jobs in July, which was below economists’ expectations, leading to a slight rise in the national unemployment rate from 4.1% to 4.2%. This also contributed to a decline in global stock markets and the dollar.
• Weak economic data from China also limited oil’s gains.
• Geopolitical and Trade Tensions:New U.S. tariffs announced by President Donald Trump on goods from several countries, including Canada, Brazil, India, and Taiwan, have raised fears about their potential impact on oil demand. These tariffs, ranging from 10% to 41%, are set to take effect for countries that fail to reach trade agreements by the beginning of August.
• Threats of stricter U.S. sanctions on Russian oil, potentially a 100% tariff on Russian crude, aim to pressure Russia to end the war in Ukraine. Analysts from JP Morgan suggested this could expose 2.75 million barrels per day of seaborne Russian oil exports to risk, as China and India are the largest consumers of Russian oil.
• The EU has proposed a floating price cap on Russian oil, set at 15% below the average market crude price of the preceding three months, though member states still need to agree. The G7 price cap already prohibits the trading of Russian crude if the price paid is above $60 per barrel.
• Iran’s nuclear talks are also relevant, as threats of re-imposing international sanctions on Iran could impact global oil supply, though Iran states that its nuclear program is for civilian purposes.

Supply and Demand Dynamics:

• Asian Imports: Asia is expected to increase its imports of U.S. WTI crude due to higher prices for Middle Eastern oil. Middle Eastern benchmark crudes like Dubai and Murban saw gains in July due to strong demand for high-sulfur oil in Asia, narrowing their price gap with light sweet U.S. WTI. Companies like Occidental Petroleum have already sold WTI to Japanese refiners.
• Logistics Costs: The decline in very large crude carrier (VLCC) tanker costs for transporting oil from the U.S. Gulf Coast to Asia makes this trade more attractive.
• Middle East Supply: Murban crude supplies from Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) have decreased, as the company diverted more oil to its domestic refineries, supporting the benchmark crude price.
• Trading Activity: Shell’s financial director noted the continuation of economic challenges across multiple fronts, impacting trade flows and commodity prices, but the company still reported strong results. Shell adopted a cautious approach in oil trading during this quarter, observing a disconnect between price movements and the fundamentals of supply and demand.
• Global Oil Trade (June): The global trade of crude oil and refined products saw variations. U.S. crude imports and exports remained generally stable, while refined product imports decreased and exports increased. Europe’s crude oil and product imports also showed varied trends.

The Saudi economy, as discussed, is actively reducing its reliance on oil prices as the primary driver of its economic pace. Vision 2030 aims to diversify income sources, with non-oil revenues showing notable growth. This strategic shift means that while global oil market dynamics are critical, Saudi Arabia is working to insulate its economic trajectory from these fluctuations.

Global Interplay: Oil, Geopolitics, and Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Role

The oil market, as discussed previously, is deeply intertwined with broader international relations, reflecting a complex interplay of political, economic, and humanitarian factors. The provided sources offer a multifaceted view of current international dynamics, highlighting diplomatic efforts, trade tensions, geopolitical conflicts, and the evolving roles of various global actors, particularly Saudi Arabia.

Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Dynamics

Recent fluctuations in oil prices have been significantly influenced by geopolitical tensions and new trade measures. The overall decline in oil prices during the second quarter of 2025 by approximately $2 per barrel, with Brent crude futures stabilizing at $69.67 and WTI crude at $67.33, is partly attributed to these factors.

• U.S. Tariffs and Sanctions:
• President Donald Trump’s announcement of new U.S. tariffs on goods from countries like Canada, Brazil, India, and Taiwan, ranging from 10% to 41%, has raised fears about their potential impact on global oil demand. These tariffs were set to take effect for countries failing to reach trade agreements by early August.
• The U.S. has also threatened stricter sanctions on Russian oil, including a potential 100% tariff on Russian crude, to pressure Russia to end the war in Ukraine. Analysts from JP Morgan suggest this could risk 2.75 million barrels per day of seaborne Russian oil exports. China and India are noted as the largest consumers of Russian oil. U.S. sanctions have already led to Russian oil-laden vessels changing course from India to other destinations.
• The EU has proposed a floating price cap on Russian oil, set at 15% below the average market crude price of the preceding three months, building on the G7 price cap already prohibiting trading Russian crude above $60 per barrel.
• Iran Nuclear Talks: Iran, Britain, France, and Germany are scheduled to hold nuclear talks in Istanbul, following warnings from European powers that failure to resume negotiations could lead to the re-imposition of international sanctions on Iran. Iran maintains its nuclear program is for civilian purposes, while Western powers question the high level of uranium enrichment for civilian use.

Regional Conflicts and Diplomatic Engagements

The sources also detail ongoing regional conflicts and significant diplomatic endeavors:

• Palestine-Israel Conflict:
• Saudi Arabia maintains a steadfast and unwavering position on the Palestinian issue, considering it its primary national, political, and humanitarian priority. The Kingdom’s stance, articulated by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizes that it will not normalize diplomatic relations with Israel before the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
• This commitment dates back to the era of King Abdulaziz, who supported the Palestinian cause in the 1935 London conference. The Arab Peace Initiative of 2002, launched by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, remains a key reference for a just and comprehensive solution.
• Humanitarian Aid to Palestinians: Saudi Arabia has provided over $5.2 billion in aid, including developmental, health, and educational projects, and regular contributions to UNRWA. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) continues to provide urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza and other affected areas, with specific mention of food distribution and educational support in Yemen, Syria, and Jordan.
• The situation in Gaza remains critical due to an ongoing blockade and severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, with reports of 1,373 Palestinians killed seeking food aid since May. The Palestinian government has urged the international community to pressure Israel to open crossings and allow more aid.
• Efforts to establish a two-state solution include an international conference co-organized by Saudi Arabia and France in New York, where Saudi Arabia pledged an additional $300 million in urgent support for the Palestinian people.
• Syria and Jordan: Jordan’s armed forces have successfully thwarted infiltration attempts from Syria across its eastern border, killing two armed individuals. Meanwhile, Turkey has begun supplying natural gas to Syria from Azerbaijan, aiming to help with electricity generation and stability in the country.

Economic Interplay and Global Trade Shifts

Economic factors continue to shape international relations, particularly in energy markets:

• Shifting Oil Import Patterns: Asia is expected to increase its imports of U.S. WTI crude in the latter part of the year due to higher prices for Middle Eastern oil benchmarks like Dubai and Murban. The narrowing price gap with WTI and declining costs of Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) tankers from the U.S. Gulf Coast to Asia make this trade more attractive.
• OPEC+ Production Adjustments: Sources indicate that OPEC+ may agree to increase production by 548,000 barrels per day in September, although discussions on the exact volume are ongoing. Such decisions directly impact global supply and prices.
• Economic Data Impact: A weaker-than-expected U.S. jobs report and weak economic data from China have fueled concerns about global oil demand, contributing to price declines.

Saudi Arabia’s Evolving Global Role

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a strategy to diversify its economy and enhance its global standing, as outlined in Vision 2030.

• Economic Diversification: The Kingdom’s financial results for the second quarter of 2025 demonstrate a decreased reliance on oil prices to dictate its economic pace. Despite a decline in overall revenues due to lower oil prices, non-oil revenues increased significantly by 7%, reaching 150 billion riyals. This shift is part of a conscious, expansionary financial policy that invests in major projects for future growth, turning a fiscal deficit into a strategic decision rather than a concern. The economic momentum is further evidenced by a 9.1% increase in consumer spending and a 24.6% growth in non-oil petroleum exports.
• Global Hosting and Leadership: Saudi Arabia has secured bids to host major international events, including Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, reflecting its growing capacity and global trust. It has also successfully hosted major sports events like the Italian and Spanish Super Cups.
• Healthcare and AI Innovation: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has been recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a collaborating center in nutrition, aiming to be among the top five regulatory bodies globally. The Kingdom is also investing in Artificial Intelligence (AI), aiming to be a leader in the field and improve quality of life and knowledge-based economy.
• Cultural Diplomacy: Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in cultural exchange, as seen in the Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year 2025, which includes art exhibitions showcasing contemporary Saudi art in Beijing. Similarly, a joint Saudi-Indian scientific symposium focused on Arabic manuscripts in Indian archives highlights deep historical and cultural ties.

In summary, the oil market is a critical, but not singular, lens through which to understand international relations today. The sources demonstrate a world characterized by interconnected economic policies, ongoing geopolitical conflicts, significant humanitarian crises, and active diplomatic and economic strategies by key nations like Saudi Arabia to shape their roles on the global stage.

Saudi Vision 2030: A Cultural Transformation

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing a comprehensive strategy to diversify its economy and enhance its global standing, as outlined in Vision 2030. Cultural initiatives play a key role in this transformation, aiming to improve the quality of life and foster a knowledge-based economy, moving beyond traditional economic indicators. The Kingdom’s financial performance demonstrates a decreased reliance on oil prices, with non-oil revenues significantly increasing by 7%, reaching 150 billion riyals in Q2 2025, reflecting a conscious financial policy that invests in major projects for future growth, including those in the cultural sector.

Key cultural initiatives and developments highlighted in the sources include:

• International Cultural Exchange and Diplomacy:
• The Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year 2025 is a prominent initiative designed to strengthen cultural cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the People’s Republic of China.
• As part of this, the “Art of the Kingdom: Poetic Illuminations” exhibition was inaugurated at the Chinese National Museum in Beijing. Organized by the Museums Authority, its purpose is to showcase contemporary Saudi art and promote bilateral cultural exchange. The exhibition presents works from over 30 Saudi artists, spanning various generations and artistic practices. It explores two central themes: the desert as a human and imaginative space, and cultural heritage as a bridge connecting past and present. This is a traveling exhibition that previously appeared in Rio de Janeiro (November 2024) and Riyadh (early 2025) before its stop in Beijing.
• A joint Saudi-Indian scientific symposium, titled “Arabic Documents and Manuscripts in Indian Archives,” was held in Riyadh. Organized by the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives and the National Archives of India, this event underscores the deep historical and cultural ties between the two countries. Its goal is to document and study historical records of Arabic origin found in Indian archives, enhancing mutual understanding of their shared history and cultural exchanges.
• Preservation and Promotion of National Heritage:
• The Al-Masamak Palace Museum in Riyadh serves as a historical symbol narrating the establishment and unification of the Kingdom. Built in 1865 (1282 AH), it is integral to the story of King Abdulaziz Al Saud’s recapture of Riyadh in 1902 (1319 AH). The museum has undergone comprehensive modernization and restoration, enhancing its infrastructure and visitor experience. It features various sections detailing the historical battle, pioneers of the recapture, and exhibits on military and traditional life.
• Efforts are being made to recognize and preserve the “Al-Awarak” camel breed, an indigenous Arabian breed. Breeders are advocating for its official inclusion in major camel festivals, such as the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival, to prevent its decline and enhance genetic diversity.
• The Souleim Heritage Palace in Bukeiriyah is also recognized as a landmark that contributes to heritage preservation and tourism.
• Literary and Publishing Initiatives:
• The King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies has made available a comprehensive collection of its “Linguistic Studies” journal, totaling 54 volumes spanning over 25 years. This initiative provides a robust academic resource for research in Arabic grammar, morphology, linguistics, and prosody, creating a full documentary archive.
• The Medina International Book and Translation Fair 2025 includes a “Saudi Author’s Corner,” offering free exhibition space to over 103 Saudi authors. This platform supports self-published authors by managing sales and directly remitting financial returns, functioning as a non-profit model within the publishing sector. It features diverse literary works, showcasing the dynamic local literary scene.
• A new book, “When the Lamps Go Out: An Existential Cry in the Fifth Dimension,” by Turki Al-Maliki, delves into existential themes, described as blending psychological analysis with a human perspective on existential experiences.
• Cultural and Entertainment Festivals:
• The Buraidah Dates Carnival is highlighted as the largest date festival globally. It brings together over 100 farmers and traders, generating significant economic activity, and features various heritage, poetic, and craft events, along with activities for all age groups.
• Jeddah Season is noted for its diverse cultural and entertainment offerings, including concerts by both local and international artists, contributing to Jeddah’s growing reputation as a cultural and recreational hub. The “Cassette 90” concert series, part of Jeddah Season, aims to evoke nostalgia for the 1990s through music, combining performances with impressive visual displays.
• Saudi Arabia’s success in securing bids to host major global events like Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034 demonstrates its increasing capability and international trust in its ability to manage large-scale gatherings. The Kingdom has also successfully hosted significant sports events, such as the Italian and Spanish Super Cups, attracting global attention.

These cultural initiatives are integral to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, reinforcing its commitment to economic diversification, enhancing its global standing, and improving the quality of life for its citizens

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Regional Development Initiatives

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing regional development as a cornerstone of its comprehensive Vision 2030 strategy, aiming to diversify its economy, improve the quality of life for its citizens and residents, and enhance its global standing [introduction, 19, 49, 56, 70, 73, 80, 82, 92, 93, 97, 267]. This transformation involves significant investment in major projects across various sectors, moving beyond traditional economic indicators [introduction]. The Kingdom’s financial performance, with non-oil revenues significantly increasing by 7% in Q2 2025, reflects a conscious financial policy that supports these future-oriented growth initiatives [introduction, 4, 5, 90, 97].

Key aspects of regional development highlighted in the sources include:

• Al-Qassim Region (Bukeiriyah, Buraidah, Al-Basateen):
• Bukeiriyah has witnessed the inauguration of numerous development, health, charitable, municipal, tourism, and energy projects, with an total cost exceeding 200 million riyals. This signifies the state’s efforts to foster comprehensive development and improve the quality of life for its inhabitants. Specific initiatives include:
• A solar energy project in the governorate building, representing a step towards renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
• Health projects, totaling 26 million riyals, which include the modernization of Al-Bukeiriyah General Hospital, the implementation of an automated laboratory, and the enhancement of various departments. These projects exemplify a partnership between the governmental and non-profit sectors, such as the Al-Souileim Foundation.
• Municipal projects, valued over 140 million riyals, focused on enhancing the urban landscape and infrastructure, notably the development of the old town and the Shaq Mountain Path as a new tourist attraction.
• Endowment projects, such as the Parents’ Endowment and Al-Sa’i Endowment, demonstrate support for institutional charitable work and a vibrant, cohesive society.
• The Al-Souileim Heritage Palace is recognized for its role in heritage preservation and tourism.
• The Saleh Al-Khleifi Rural Farm represents a new recreational and tourist destination, offering a mix of nature and services to boost regional tourism.
• The Buraidah Dates Carnival is highlighted as the largest date festival globally, drawing over 100 farmers and traders, generating substantial economic activity (3.2 billion riyals in sales last year), and hosting various heritage and cultural events.
• In the Al-Basateen Center, efforts are underway to support grape farmers through the inauguration of a Cooperative Society branch, aimed at enhancing agricultural practices, improving production quality, and boosting the economic value of grape products. This also demonstrates support for the non-profit sector in agricultural development.
• Asir Region (Abha, Al-Shifa, Southern Roads):
• Abha has become a popular tourist destination, particularly during the rainy season, with its moderate temperatures and lush landscapes attracting visitors from within and outside the Kingdom. Seasonal activities and events cater to families, enhancing its tourism appeal.
• Al-Shifa (part of Taif, often associated with Asir in tourism context) is presented as a significant natural and tourist hub, boasting a cool climate, stunning mountain scenery, and diverse recreational options. It is undergoing comprehensive development to become a global tourist destination in line with Vision 2030.
• The “Aqabat Al-Sarawat” roads are critical logistical systems comprising over 28 mountain routes that connect the Tihama and Red Sea coast cities with the Sarawat highlands in Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah. These roads are vital for development, trade, tourism, and the economy, transforming challenging terrains into economic arteries. An example is the Al-Baha ascent, which includes 25 tunnels and 62 bridges.
• Madinah Region:
• King Salman Medical City has undergone significant development and modernization, including the establishment of an advanced placenta treatment center (the first of its kind in the Middle East), upgraded emergency departments, and an interventional radiology center. The city also features a specialized diabetic foot treatment center (the first in the Western region) and a dialysis center, all aimed at enhancing healthcare quality in line with Vision 2030.
• The Medina International Book and Translation Fair 2025 hosts a “Saudi Author’s Corner,” providing free exhibition space to over 103 Saudi authors, thereby supporting self-published works and promoting the vibrant local literary scene.
• The King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center has been recognized by the WHO for its contributions to community health and for meeting healthy city standards, reflecting high-quality healthcare and community engagement.
• Educational initiatives are in place to guide students toward appropriate academic and professional paths, improving the quality of education and reducing dropout rates.
• Eastern Province (Dammam):
• New industrial projects have been inaugurated in Dammam, emphasizing their role in diversifying income and strengthening the Kingdom’s economic position. These include multi-story factories designed to create a stimulating environment for entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
• The region hosts six industrial cities under the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (“Modon”), covering vast areas with over 1,850 factories and logistics investments, highlighting the vitality of the industrial sector and its contribution to exports.
• A memorandum of understanding between “Modon” and the Eastern Province Municipality aims to enhance regulatory cooperation and create an integrated and attractive industrial environment for investors.
• Jeddah:
• Five waterfronts have been developed with integrated facilities, including pedestrian paths, fountains, cycling lanes, restaurants, and cafes, significantly enhancing recreational options for residents and visitors.
• The “Bahja” project involves the development of over 443 parks within residential neighborhoods to create green, safe community spaces.
• Jeddah Season is a prominent cultural and entertainment festival with diverse offerings, including concerts by local and international artists, contributing to Jeddah’s growing reputation as a cultural and recreational hub [introduction, 230, 231, 232, 233, 235].
• Jazan Region:
• Efforts are underway to officially recognize and preserve the “Al-Awarak” camel breed, an indigenous Arabian breed. Breeders are advocating for its inclusion in major camel festivals to prevent its decline and enhance genetic diversity, which is an important aspect of cultural heritage and biodiversity preservation with strong regional roots.
• Riyadh:
• The Al-Masamak Palace Museum has been modernized and restored, serving as a historical symbol narrating the establishment and unification of the Kingdom, thereby contributing to cultural heritage and tourism [introduction, 208, 209, 212, 213].
• The King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies provides a comprehensive collection of its “Linguistic Studies” journal, serving as a robust academic resource and promoting intellectual development.
• A significant partnership between the “Kalana” Society and the Ministry of Health aims to provide 50 dialysis machines across the Kingdom, enhancing kidney patient care and aligning with Vision 2030’s goals for health sector development and non-profit collaboration.

These regional developments are intrinsically linked to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, driving economic diversification, enhancing the quality of life, and fostering a knowledge-based economy [introduction, 19, 49, 56, 70, 73, 80, 82, 92, 93, 97, 267]. The Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable development is evident in initiatives like solar energy projects and wildlife protection. Furthermore, the active involvement of the private and non-profit sectors through partnerships and community engagement is crucial for the implementation and success of these projects across all regions.

Download PDF Newspaper

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

Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. This comes at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running and allows me to continue providing you with quality content. Thank you for your support!