This collection of articles from a Saudi newspaper, dated August 1-2, 2025, provides a multifaceted view of Saudi Arabia’s progress and aspirations across various sectors. Several pieces highlight the transformation of the entertainment industry as a key component of Vision 2030, emphasizing its economic impact, cultural preservation efforts, and empowerment of Saudi women. The publication also discusses the “Two-State Solution” conference, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic role in advocating for the Palestinian cause. Furthermore, articles examine the advancements in Saudi industry, the historical context of education in the region, the growth of the beauty sector, and the increasing prominence of sports in the national economy. The diverse topics reflect a nation actively pursuing development, global engagement, and social evolution.

Podcast

Saudi Vision 2030: A Kingdom Transformed

Saudi Vision 2030 is a comprehensive roadmap aimed at diversifying the Kingdom’s economy and reducing its reliance on oil. It focuses on empowering non-oil sectors and is seen as a strategic driver for achieving major national goals, fostering community and cultural identity.

Here are some key aspects and impacts of Saudi Vision 2030:

• Economic Diversification and Growth
• The Vision aims to diversify income sources and move away from dependence on oil. Non-oil activities contributed 55% to the Kingdom’s real GDP in 2024.
• It seeks to create a flexible and competitive industrial economy led by the private sector.
• The Vision has ambitious targets, including increasing the manufacturing capacity for cars to 280,000 annually by localizing 40% of their added value, localizing 40% of the pharmaceutical market, increasing the local production of medical devices and supplies to 15%, meeting 85% of local demand for food industries, and localizing 70% of the future chemical supply chain.
• The Kingdom aims to be a regional hub for food industries, covering 85% of local demand.
• Quality of Life and Societal Transformation
• A primary goal is to improve the quality of life for all segments of society.
• The entertainment sector has undergone a radical transformation, moving from a pure recreational element to a strategic pillar for achieving Vision 2030. It’s seen as a means to build individuals, enhance belonging, and achieve sustainable economic development.
• The General Entertainment Authority (GEA), established in 2016, is responsible for regulating and developing this sector, making it a cornerstone of the post-oil economy.
• Entertainment aims to offer diverse cultural and recreational options for all community segments, making Saudi Arabia an attractive destination for tourism and investment.
• It has contributed billions of riyals to the national economy and created thousands of jobs in creative fields.
• Notable projects include Boulevard Riyadh, Boulevard World, AlUla Heights, and Qiddiya. Riyadh Season has attracted over 20 million visitors and generated significant economic and media value.
• The sector also supports local heritage, traditional arts, and handicrafts.
• It acts as a soft power tool for promoting a positive image of the Kingdom globally.
• Women’s Empowerment: Vision 2030 explicitly sought to develop the entertainment sector to empower women.
• This involved opening opportunities for women to participate in public events and entertainment activities that were previously restricted or absent.
• It created new professional opportunities, especially within the GEA, with Saudi women now holding leadership and executive positions.
• The sector became a platform for female creativity, highlighting talents in arts, culture, and media.
• It also generated new economic opportunities for women, enabling many to start small and medium-sized businesses related to events, photography, food trucks, and cafes.
• The increase in Saudi women’s participation in the labor market from 20.2% in 2018 to 36.2% by Q1 2025 aligns with this economic shift.
• Entertainment spaces have become safe and organized environments for women, fostering community integration and personal growth.
• Industrial and Manufacturing Sector
• Saudi Arabia has become a leading industrial success story, transitioning from limited capabilities to a fundamental pillar of the national economy.
• The Kingdom has attracted massive local and foreign investments in its industrial sector.
• New factories are consistently beginning production, leading to job creation.
• The quality of Saudi products is now comparable to those of major industrial nations, leading to increased exports to global markets.
• The Kingdom achieved the first rank in the Middle East, North Africa, and 20th globally in the Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development (QI4SD) index for 2024, reflecting its commitment to quality.
• Financial Market Development
• The Capital Market Authority (CMA) has adopted a stimulative measure for public offerings of debt instruments, prioritizing review requests for issuers with a credit rating.
• This initiative is part of a broader CMA strategy to deepen and enhance the Saudi financial market, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of diversifying funding sources and promoting financial sustainability.
• Credit ratings are seen as a tool to assess creditworthiness and help investors make informed decisions.
• Education and Human Capital Development
• Riyadh Schools, established in 1970 (1390 AH), play a role in preparing national leaders capable of contributing to Vision 2030.
• The schools operate under the Mohammed bin Salman Misk Foundation, with an ambitious plan to expand to over 44 schools across 10 administrative regions by 2034.
• The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language aims to enhance the global presence of the Arabic language, aligning with the Kingdom’s efforts to serve the Arabic language worldwide.
• Sports Sector Transformation
• The sports sector is no longer just a recreational activity but an advanced economic driver and a strategic tool for national development and soft power.
• Saudi Arabia has made significant progress in sports empowerment, hosting major international tournaments like Formula 1 (since 2021) and the Spanish Super Cup (since 2020).
• The Kingdom aims to transition from merely organizing major events to building a sustainable sports industry based on an integrated economic structure.
• The Saudi Sports Sector Ecosystem (SSSE) is a framework for building a national industry rooted in education, tourism, innovation, and sector integration.
• There is a focus on sectoral specialization within sports clubs, transforming each sport into a semi-independent entity to enhance financial sustainability, attract private sector investment, and improve performance.
• This includes the establishment of academic and research partnerships with Saudi and international universities to offer specialized programs in sports management and economics.
• The sports sector’s contribution to GDP is expected to exceed 2.5% by 2033, along with the creation of thousands of new jobs in areas like sports technology, marketing, and venue management.
• Environmental and Biodiversity Initiatives
• The Kingdom is rich in biodiversity, with 65 terrestrial and marine ecosystems, housing over 12,000 species.
• Saudi Arabia is implementing strategies and initiatives to protect the environment and ensure its sustainability, preserving biodiversity for future generations.

In summary, Saudi Vision 2030 is a multi-faceted national plan aiming for significant socio-economic restructuring, with a strong emphasis on economic diversification, quality of life improvement through entertainment and sports, women’s empowerment, industrial growth, and human capital development, all contributing to the Kingdom’s standing on the global stage.

Saudi Entertainment: A Pillar of Vision 2030 Transformation

The entertainment sector in Saudi Arabia has undergone a radical and strategic transformation in recent years, evolving from a purely recreational element into a fundamental pillar for achieving Saudi Vision 2030. This shift reflects a recognition by the wise leadership that entertainment is not merely for amusement but a means to build individuals, foster belonging, and achieve sustainable economic development.

Strategic Importance and Goals:

• The sector is recognized as a strategic driver for achieving major national goals and a vital contributor to communal and cultural identity.
• It is a core component of Vision 2030’s aim to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil, specifically focusing on empowering non-oil sectors.
• A key objective is to provide diverse cultural and entertainment options for all segments of society, enhancing the quality of life and making Saudi Arabia an attractive destination for tourism and investment.

Key Enabler: General Entertainment Authority (GEA):

• The General Entertainment Authority (GEA), established in 2016, was supported by the state to be the entity responsible for regulating and developing the entertainment sector. It has been designated as one of the fundamental pillars of the post-oil economy.
• Since its inception until the first half of 2023, the GEA attracted 135 million visitors across more than 120 cities within the Kingdom and issued over 14,000 licenses for entertainment activities.
• In 2023, the total number of attendees reached 72 million people, an increase of 17% compared to 2022, and the number of licenses exceeded 6,000 in 117 cities.
• By 2024, Saudi Arabia hosted 76.9 million visitors in 423 entertainment destinations, and GEA events saw over 100,000 entertainment nights with 3,700 participating companies. In the third quarter of 2024 alone, GEA organized 536 events attended by 8.3 million visitors.
• GEA also launched the “Entertainment Portal” digital platform in 2024 to facilitate the issuance of licenses for establishments, events, and talent, improving procedures and transparency for investors. This has led to a significant increase in visitor numbers and licenses.

Economic Contributions:

• The entertainment sector has contributed billions of riyals to the national economy.
• It has created thousands of jobs for Saudi youth in new creative fields that were previously unavailable. The entertainment industry is described as labor-intensive, capable of absorbing a large and diverse workforce across various levels and specialties.
• It has stimulated massive local and foreign investment by engaging international and Arab production companies.
• The sector’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to reach 4.2% by 2030, with the creation of 450,000 direct and indirect job opportunities across various regions. The sports sector’s GDP contribution is also expected to exceed 2.5% by 2033, creating thousands of new jobs in areas like sports technology and marketing.
• Domestic and foreign tourism stimulated by entertainment has attracted billions of riyals, benefiting sectors like hotels, aviation, transport, hospitality, and restaurants.

Social and Cultural Transformation:

• The societal perception of entertainment has shifted from being a luxury or marginal activity to an essential component of quality of life, contributing to psychological well-being and strengthening family and community bonds.
• Entertainment events have played a role in reviving popular arts, traditional foods, and handicrafts that were threatened with extinction.
• These events have become platforms for expressing national pride and presenting a modern image of the Kingdom that blends authenticity with openness to the world.

Impact on Women’s Empowerment:

• A key strategic goal of developing the entertainment sector under Vision 2030 was to empower women.
• This involved opening opportunities for women to participate in public events and entertainment activities previously restricted or absent, such as attending musical concerts, sports matches, and cultural festivals.
• It created new professional opportunities for women, particularly within the GEA and related institutions, with Saudi women now holding leadership and executive positions.
• The sector became a platform for female creativity, showcasing talents in acting, directing, music, comedy, and production.
• It generated new economic opportunities for women, enabling many to start small and medium-sized businesses related to event organization, photography, food trucks, and cafes.
• The increase in Saudi women’s labor market participation from 20.2% in 2018 to 36.2% by Q1 2025 aligns with this economic shift.
• Entertainment spaces have become safe and organized environments for women, fostering community integration and personal growth and contributing to their self-confidence and personal and professional networks.

Key Projects and Events:

• Major projects like Boulevard Riyadh, Boulevard World, AlUla Heights, and Qiddiya (under development) have been launched as global entertainment, sports, and cultural destinations.
• The Saudi Seasons program, especially Riyadh Season, has become an international event attracting millions of visitors annually. Riyadh Season alone attracted over 20 million visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom in its previous edition.
• Hundreds of artistic performances, musical concerts, festivals, theatrical shows, and exhibitions have been presented. Examples include Jeddah Season and the Red Sea International Film Festival.
• Boulevard World, a new area of Riyadh Season, attracted around 6 million visitors by the end of Riyadh Season 2024 and features the world’s largest artificial lake.
• The Kingdom has hosted major international sporting events, including Formula 1 (since 2021) and the Spanish Super Cup (since 2020), and WWE shows.

International Recognition and Soft Power:

• The entertainment sector has become an effective tool of “soft power,” reflecting a positive image of the Kingdom to the world and opening windows for cultural communication with global populations.
• Hosting global artists and stars, and major sporting events, broadcasts a message that Saudi Arabia is an influential player in the global entertainment industry, enhancing its regional and international standing.
• The GEA and its initiatives have received international awards, such as Turki Al Sheikh (GEA Chairman) winning the “Most Influential Personality in the Decade” at the 2024 Effie Awards, and the “Joy Awards” festival setting a Guinness World Record for the largest commemorative shield. MDLBEAST also won international awards for its events.
• The expansion of the sector strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional center for entertainment, tourism, and culture, fulfilling Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification and quality of life.

In essence, the growth of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment sector is a multi-faceted success story, demonstrating its profound impact on economic diversification, societal well-being, cultural exchange, and global soft power.

Saudi Entertainment: Empowering Women, Transforming Society

The entertainment sector in Saudi Arabia has been a pivotal force in women’s empowerment, undergoing a strategic transformation as part of Saudi Vision 2030. This shift acknowledges entertainment as a means to foster belonging and achieve sustainable economic development, rather than merely amusement.

Here’s a comprehensive discussion of women’s empowerment through the growth of the entertainment sector:

• Strategic Objective and Participation in Public Life:
• Developing the entertainment sector was a strategic goal of Vision 2030 aimed at empowering women. The government sought to enhance the quality of life and diversify the economy through this focus.
• A key initial step was opening avenues for women to participate in public events and entertainment activities, a significant change from previous decades where their involvement was restricted or absent. This includes attending musical concerts, sports matches, and cultural festivals. These were seen as more than just superficial changes, but rather an acknowledgment of women’s right to participation, interaction, and enjoyment as citizens.
• Creation of New Professional and Economic Opportunities:
• The sector’s growth generated new professional opportunities for women, particularly within the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) and related institutions. Saudi women are now in leadership and executive roles, contributing to the planning, organization, and execution of major events.
• The new regulatory environment facilitated women’s entry into diverse fields previously unavailable to them, such as theater, production, event organization, photography, artistic design, and fashion for public occasions.
• The beauty sector, in particular, has seen a rapid growth in Saudi Arabia, with many young Saudi women working independently as “makeup artists” or “hair stylists” outside traditional salons, utilizing social media platforms for promotion. The value of the women’s beauty and salon services market in Saudi Arabia was estimated at approximately $1.585 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $3.148 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual rate of 10.6%. The individual beauty services market is also expected to grow by 4.8% annually from 2025 to 2031.
• This expansion has created new economic avenues for many Saudi women to establish small and medium-sized businesses, including event organization, photography studios, food trucks, and themed cafes. These opportunities, previously limited, are now part of a state-supported renewed economic landscape.
• Major entertainment events have provided seasonal and permanent jobs for women in sales, hospitality, marketing, public relations, and event management. Many women have also found part-time or freelance work, offering them professional flexibility and contributing to their financial independence.
• Platform for Talent and Societal Role:
• The entertainment sector has become a platform to celebrate female creativity, showcasing talents in acting, directing, music, comedy, and cinematic production, establishing new prominent figures.
• Major events like “Riyadh Season” and “Jeddah Season” have provided women with real opportunities to demonstrate their professionalism to both local and international audiences. This extends to diverse areas like theater management, photography, program presentation, and sports and entertainment commentary.
• This participation has significantly contributed to changing the stereotypical image of Saudi women, presenting them as active participants and creators of cultural and entertainment content, not just consumers.
• Increased Labor Market Participation:
• The economic growth of the entertainment sector correlates with a substantial increase in Saudi women’s labor market participation. According to official data, the percentage of Saudi women participating in the workforce increased from 20.2% in 2018 to 33.2% in 2020, reaching 36.2% by Q1 2025.
• Estimates suggest that the Eastern Province alone needs to employ at least 7,000 Saudi women in its approximately 4,000 women’s salons to meet demand, indicating significant employment potential. This offers Saudi women an opportunity to start their own projects, even without needing to open licensed salons initially.
• Social and Psychological Transformation:
• The impact extends beyond economic gains to deep social and psychological effects on Saudi women’s lives. Entertainment events and public spaces have become safe and organized environments where women can naturally integrate into society, free from isolation or excessive restrictions.
• Women can now interact within the community, attend activities with family or friends, participate in public events, and explore different cultures within their own country. This positive interaction has enhanced women’s self-confidence, helped them build social and professional networks, and provided mixed-gender, family-friendly spaces that support openness while respecting societal privacy.
• The psychological benefits are evident, with many women finding these spaces outlets for self-expression, stress relief, and pursuing their hobbies, significantly improving their overall quality of life.
• Challenges and Calls for Fairer Practices:
• Despite opportunities, Saudi women in the beauty sector face intense competition from non-Saudi workers, particularly from unlicensed operations. This unregulated competition, often offering lower prices, reduces opportunities for Saudi women.
• Saudi women have advocated for an official platform to evaluate and showcase their talents, ensuring fair competition and recognition. They report facing “soft warfare” tactics like negative comments and price undercutting by foreign workers. They also highlight challenges in obtaining licenses and participating in official events, claiming regulations are often only strictly applied to them.
• They propose measures such as government support for salons employing Saudi women and imposing minimum wages to ensure genuine Saudization, not just superficial compliance.
• However, despite these challenges, Saudi women are gaining customer trust in the beauty sector, often preferred for their understanding of local tastes, professionalism, respect for privacy, dedication, and hygiene. Clients value the personalized approach, natural makeup styles, and post-service follow-up provided by Saudi professionals.

In conclusion, the growth of the entertainment sector, championed by Vision 2030 and the GEA, has been a major catalyst for women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia, transforming their public, professional, and social roles, despite ongoing challenges in certain segments.

Saudi Arabia’s Industrial Transformation: Vision 2030’s Economic Core

Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector has undergone a profound transformation, evolving from a limited, resource-dependent industry into a fundamental pillar of the national economy. This strategic shift is central to Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil, while fostering sustainable economic development.

Key Aspects of Saudi Industrial Development:

• Strategic Transformation and Diversification:
• The Kingdom’s industrial development is no longer limited to oil-related industries but has expanded into diverse sectors such as pharmaceuticals, metals, food products, and even car manufacturing. This broad diversification reflects the ambitious goals of Vision 2030 to build a robust and sustainable economy.
• Saudi industry is now seen as a symbol of development and modernity, generating pride among its citizens.
• Significant Investment and Growth:
• The sector has attracted massive local and foreign investments, supported by modern infrastructure including economic cities like King Abdullah Economic City and advanced industrial and technical zones.
• Government incentives and simplified manufacturing procedures have played a crucial role in drawing investors.
• In June , investments in new factories amounted to 1.93 billion riyals, creating 2,007 new job opportunities.
• The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources issued 83 new industrial licenses in June , with 58 new factories commencing production in the same month. Investments associated with these new licenses exceeded 950 million riyals, expected to generate over 1,188 jobs across the Kingdom.
• The total number of industrial permits granted across Saudi Arabia’s regions and cities grew significantly from 464 in 2017 to 5,526 by the end of 2024, indicating a rapid and effective growth of the sector.
• Quality and Global Competitiveness:
• The quality of Saudi products now rivals those in major industrial nations, a success attributed to the application of advanced quality systems, reliance on qualified national competencies, and international partnerships that facilitate knowledge transfer.
• Saudi Arabia has achieved the first position in the Middle East and North Africa and 20th globally in the Quality Infrastructure for Sustainable Development (QI4SD) index for 2024, a significant jump of 25 ranks compared to 2022.
• The Kingdom also holds a Guinness World Record for organizing the largest food gathering in Jeddah, covering 11 million square meters, demonstrating its exceptional capabilities in executing massive initiatives.
• Contribution to GDP and Economic Diversification:
• Non-oil activities accounted for 55% of the Kingdom’s real GDP in 2024.
• Specific contributions to non-oil GDP include approximately 39% from transport and storage, 5% from manufacturing industries, and 4% from mining and quarrying activities.
• Non-oil exports recorded a 13.2% growth in 2024, with re-export activities seeing an unprecedented increase of up to 42% (90 billion riyals).
• Service exports reached 207 billion riyals, growing by 14% annually, while non-oil commodity exports hit 217 billion riyals, marking a 4% growth.
• Future Objectives and Localization Efforts:
• The industrial sector aims to maximize local value and protect national products from unfair competition and dumping.
• Ambitious localization targets for Vision 2030 include manufacturing 280,000 cars annually and localizing 40% of their added value (including electric vehicles).
• In the pharmaceutical industry, the goal is to localize 40% of its value and 15% of medical devices and supplies.
• Saudi Arabia also seeks to become a regional hub for food industries, aiming to meet 85% of local demand.
• Localization efforts extend to renewable energy sources and 70% of future chemical material supply chains.
• Job Creation and Human Capital Development:
• The industrial sector is inherently labor-intensive, capable of absorbing a vast and diverse workforce across various skill levels and specializations. It creates direct and indirect job opportunities for millions, ranging from high-level specialists in strategic planning to professionals in logistics, security, hospitality, and retail.
• This unique ability to generate jobs contributes significantly to reducing unemployment and enhancing economic and social stability, thereby increasing overall national productivity.
• There is a focus on developing skills and training human capital to build a future-ready industrial workforce.

In essence, Saudi Arabia’s industrial development is a concerted effort to create a flexible and competitive economy driven by the private sector, underpinned by strong infrastructure, and committed to high quality and strategic localization goals.

Saudi Arabia: Health and Well-being in Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia places a significant emphasis on healthcare and well-being, viewing them as integral components of its national development and economic diversification under Vision 2030. This holistic approach spans medical advancements, public health initiatives, and the promotion of a higher quality of life for all citizens and residents.

Here are key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s efforts in healthcare and well-being:

• Strategic Focus on Quality of Life and Societal Well-being:
• Vision 2030 aims to enhance the quality of life. The entertainment sector, for instance, has transformed from a mere recreational element into a strategic axis for achieving this vision. It’s seen as a means to build individuals, strengthen belonging, and achieve sustainable economic development.
• Entertainment contributes to psychological health and enhances family and community cohesion. It is no longer viewed as a luxury but as an essential component of daily life, actively contributing to national development and changing deeply rooted societal perceptions.
• Activities are designed to be family-friendly, which has built community trust and increased participation. Entertainment is also considered a human right and a pillar of sustainable development.
• Advancements in Health and Medical Research:
• The Kingdom is addressing global health challenges that affect millions, such as psoriasis, an autoimmune disease affecting 125 million people worldwide.
• It highlights the life-saving power of vaccines, which prevent approximately 2-3 million deaths annually and provide protection against over 25 types of infections. Prevention is considered the optimal investment in health.
• New discoveries in medical research are being made, such as the identification of four distinct autism subtypes, which is a significant step towards understanding the genetic basis of the condition and improving healthcare. Each subtype shows different medical, behavioral, psychological, and genetic variation patterns, suggesting distinct underlying mechanisms.
• There’s a recognized need for significant investments in health infrastructure, research, and development, as well as in providing specialized human cadres.
• Public Health Awareness and Proactive Measures:
• World Breastfeeding Week is highlighted as a true investment in the health and future of generations, noting that breastfeeding protects approximately 820,000 children under the age of five from death annually and significantly reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in mothers. There’s a strong warning against artificial milk companies intruding into hospitals, which could negatively impact this vital practice.
• Cultured doctors play a crucial role in raising community awareness and health education. Their efforts, often through personal accounts on social media, make medical information accessible and understandable to the public, especially benefiting those facing barriers to traditional medical access. This proactive information sharing is seen as a “zakat of knowledge,” embodying a strong sense of belonging and community interaction.
• Effective responses to health challenges start with individual awareness and the adoption of healthy lifestyle practices.
• Water Safety and Drowning Prevention:
• Saudi Arabia has achieved global leadership in meeting the highest standards for drowning prevention. This achievement is attributed to 12 integrated national initiatives that have reduced drowning deaths by 17% and averted economic losses exceeding 800 million riyals.
• Policies and training/awareness programs have been implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in cooperation with the Public Health Authority (“Weqaya”) to instill safe behaviors in pools, coastal areas, and other water bodies.
• Five essential tips for water safety include:

1. Never leave children unsupervised, even if they can swim.
2. Choose swimming areas with qualified lifeguards.
3. Ensure children learn basic swimming and survival skills.
4. Avoid unknown or dangerous swimming spots.
5. Learn basic first aid for drowning incidents.

• Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death globally, with a significant increase in incidents among children during summer, primarily due to lack of parental supervision. Even shallow water poses a risk to infants.
• Medical consultation is advised for anyone involved in a drowning incident, even if they appear well afterwards. Incorrect first aid methods, such as inverting a drowned person, are explicitly warned against as they can delay proper resuscitation and worsen outcomes.
• Sleep and Brain Health:
• Deep sleep is described as the brain’s natural “washing machine,” activating the glymphatic system to remove toxins linked to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
• A long-term study indicated that sleeping less than 6 hours a night in mid-life increases the risk of dementia by 30%.
• Aging can reduce the efficiency of the glymphatic system, weakening the brain’s ability to clear waste.
• Poor or insufficient sleep leads to protein accumulation, while improving sleep quality (e.g., regulating sleep times, reducing light exposure) enhances brain health and reduces dementia risk.
• A 1% decrease in REM (dream) sleep is associated with a 9% increase in dementia risk. Tips for better sleep include avoiding interrupted sleep, intermittent fasting, and sleeping on one’s side.
• Addressing Common Health Concerns:
• The sources address various common health issues, such as nighttime coughing (often linked to asthma, changes in the body’s biological clock, or acid reflux).
• Stomach discomfort, including a bitter taste upon waking, is frequently associated with acid reflux, nasal obstructions, or chronic sinusitis.
• Fainting upon sudden standing can be caused by a drop in blood pressure, anemia, or certain medications.
• Wheezing in infants can signal issues ranging from enlarged tonsils/adenoids to respiratory or even heart problems, necessitating specialist medical evaluation.
• For these concerns, professional medical consultation is consistently recommended.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s industrial development, as reflected in these discussions, extends beyond economic growth to encompass a comprehensive commitment to the health, safety, and overall well-being of its population, integrating these goals into its national strategic frameworks.

Saudi Arabian Renaissance: Society, Economy, and Culture

Here are the titles of the columns and their two paragraphs of detail from the newspaper, presented in English:

• Statement
• Saudi initiatives have always been related to the Palestinian issue, starting from the Arab Summit Initiative in Fez (1981) and the Beirut Initiative (2002) to the Two-State Solution Initiative in 2025. This matter, with its clear implications, stems from Saudi policies’ deep and continuous interest in the Palestinian issue throughout the ages, accompanied by serious attempts to ensure that the Palestinian people obtain all their legitimate rights by establishing a Palestinian state with all the components of a sovereign state.
• The international momentum that accompanied the Two-State Solution Initiative confirms that the world has become more aware and realistic regarding the Palestinian issue, not only at the level of governments but also at the level of peoples who witnessed the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza due to the Israeli war of killing, displacement, and starvation of civilians without any regard for international laws or norms of humanity, and interacted with it.
• Entertainment.. Windows to Life
• Saudi Arabia has witnessed a radical transformation in the field of entertainment in a short period. It was not just a development in offering activities and events but a deep strategic transformation based on Saudi Vision 2030, and it managed to touch multiple aspects of life, redefine the nation’s identity, and reshape societal concepts of entertainment from their roots.
• Entertainment came to the heart of the Vision, for when the wise leadership placed well-being and entertainment among the pillars of “Vision 2030,” it was not merely for leisure, but as an economic, cultural, and social leverage. The ambitious Vision aimed to diversify sources of income and reduce reliance on oil, and entertainment was among the promising sectors that contributed to this by attracting investments and stimulating domestic and foreign tourism, and moving the local economy.
• Saudi Women Make a Difference
• The development of the entertainment sector was one of the strategic goals that the government sought to achieve with the launch of Vision 2030 for Saudi Arabia, aimed at enhancing the quality of life and diversifying the economy. Among the first steps that reflected this trend was opening the door for women to participate in public events and entertainment activities, after their participation was restricted or absent in previous decades.
• We have witnessed major transformations such as allowing women to attend sports matches, musical concerts, cultural festivals, and parties. These steps did not merely represent a “real” entry into entertainment but were an indication of acknowledging their right to enjoy, interact, and participate as citizens. These changes have created new professional opportunities for women, especially in the General Entertainment Authority and related institutions.
• A Nation Pulsating with Life
• In just a few years, the entertainment sector in Saudi Arabia has transformed from a limited margin to a vibrant hub, thanks to Vision 2030 and the guidance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman – may God protect them – so entertainment has become one of the pillars of quality of life and economic diversification.
• The Kingdom was able to activate the entertainment sector in an unprecedented way in a short period, to become one of the most prominent features of social and cultural transformation, through strategic and systematic steps that resulted in tangible changes in lifestyle. Entertainment contributed to the quality of life after the establishment of the General Entertainment Authority in 2016, as it was the body responsible for formulating and implementing entertainment policies.
• The Entertainment Industry Changes the Face of Society
• The General Entertainment Authority and those in charge of it have reinforced the understanding of the importance of the private sector’s role in advancing the entertainment sector, and transforming it from a neglected seasonal sector into a sustainable and productive sector, enabling it to utilize the great and promising opportunities it abounds with. This approach has succeeded in removing obstacles that prevented the private sector from investing in various entertainment activities.
• And domestic and foreign investments have multiplied to expand and increase the largest artificial lake in the world, the sector’s contribution to the gross domestic product, and in local content, and in creating suitable and appropriate jobs for citizens, and in creating a diverse entertainment environment that meets the needs of everyone, citizens, residents, and visitors from outside the Kingdom.
• Ahmed Al-Sanea.. Competence and Capability
• Ahmed bin Saleh bin Ibrahim bin Ahmed bin Nasser Al-Sanea, our personality, was born in Majma’ah in 1279 AH during the reign of Imam Faisal bin Turki – may God have mercy on him – as Dr. Fahd Al-Maza’al mentions in his book about him. He grew up well and learned the basics of reading and writing in his hometown of Zubair to develop himself scientifically and culturally.
• Zubair was then bustling with scholars and students of knowledge and was one of the major cities of Iraq. Its southern part, as described by the researcher Hamoud Al-Muzaini in his book, “This is what I wrote,” indicates that his father, Ahmed Al-Bashaa Al-Sanea, was among those interested in their country, Majma’ah.
• The Pocket Withers Before the Rose
• Roses have always been a symbol of beauty and taste, and we receive them with gratitude and joy. But in recent years, they have turned from a simple gesture into a “heavy task” that burdens pockets and confuses mothers for no exaggerated reason.
• Occasions today, from graduation parties to birth celebrations and home visits, are associated with small gifts wrapped in luxurious boxes of roses, sometimes with multiple layers, candles, and accompanying decorations, as if the gift has lost its original meaning and turned into a presentation.
• The Beauty Sector.. Rapid Growth and a Promising Market
• The women’s beauty sector in the Kingdom is witnessing rapid growth amidst social and economic transformations that have enabled Saudi women to strongly enter professions that until recently were confined to the shadows. Among the most prominent of these professions are makeup and hairstyling, where many young Saudi women have started working for themselves as “makeup artists” or “hair stylists” outside the framework of traditional salons.
• They are using social media platforms as a front for promotion and outreach. According to a report issued by Infinium Global, the value of the women’s salons and beauty services market in Saudi Arabia reached about 1.585 billion dollars in 2020. It is expected to rise to 3.148 billion dollars by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate of 10.6%.
• Industry in the Kingdom.. Advanced Technology in Quality and Production Expands Saudi Exports to Global Markets
• The industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is considered a success story worthy of admiration. Over the past decades, it has transformed from a sector with limited capabilities into a fundamental pillar of the national economy, with its products competing globally in quality and its investments and huge production. The Kingdom has set out to build a strong industrial base relying on advanced technology and global standards in quality and production.
• Progress has not stopped at oil industries only, but has extended to include diverse sectors such as pharmaceuticals, metals, food products, and even the manufacturing of cars and spare parts, which have begun to carve a place for themselves in regional and global markets. This diversity reflects the ambitious vision adopted by the Kingdom, “Saudi Vision 2030,” which prioritizes the development of the industrial sector to create a diverse and sustainable economy.
• Stimulating Measures to Build a More Mature and Stable Debt Instrument Market
• The Board of the Capital Market Authority has adopted a stimulating measure for public offerings of debt instruments, which involves giving priority to reviewing requests for classification of public offerings for issuers who have obtained a credit rating from a credit rating agency licensed by the Authority, and this procedure will continue until the end of 2026.
• This approach comes within the framework of the Authority’s keenness to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the debt instrument market, and support its role as a major source for financing growth and stimulating the economy, in addition to encouraging issuers of listed debt instruments to obtain a credit rating to enhance the participation of a wider segment of investors, and support the market depth and efficiency.
• The Future of Bitcoin Will History Repeat Its Crises with Encrypted Digital Tools?
• We have entered a new phase of global financial history, where speculation in the cryptocurrency market intertwines with public policies and political influence, to the extent that it becomes difficult to distinguish between genuine innovation and disguised risks, especially after JP Morgan’s step towards lending customers against their crypto holdings.
• Although this may seem like a natural evolution to integrate crypto assets into the real economy, it is a repetition of a terrifying historical pattern of regulatory laxity that ends in market crises, and Rania Goul, senior analyst at XS.com for the Middle East region, says: “Simply put, Bitcoin is not an asset that can be relied upon in a traditional financial framework.”
• Strategic Transformation
• Saudi Arabia has witnessed a radical transformation in its approach to entertainment in recent years, from being a purely recreational element to being one of the strategic axes for achieving Vision 2030. Our wise leadership has realized that entertainment is not limited to amusement but is a means to build human beings, strengthen belonging, and achieve sustainable economic development.
• And entertainment in the Kingdom, as a strategic driver for achieving major national goals, and a vital supporter of societal and cultural identity. It has indeed become a strategic tool for achieving national goals and enhancing cultural identity.
• Riyadh Schools.. Five Decades of Excellence and Giving Established in 1390 AH with King Salman’s Approval for Its Honorary Presidency
• Riyadh Schools, which have graduated a distinguished and leading generation, have contributed over half a century to building national leaders capable of contributing to the achievement of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, as its mission was (preparing students intellectually, morally, and spiritually to achieve their aspirations and contribute to community service) and its vision (graduating passionate and talented leaders who serve our society), and its goals (enhancing Islamic values and principles, and providing a safe material, social, and intellectual environment).
• The establishment of Riyadh Schools came in the academic year 1390/1391 AH, and its main headquarters was in Al-Ulaisha neighborhood, which was one of the oldest neighborhoods in Riyadh. Today, it stands on large areas, and the schools have enjoyed, since their inception, the patronage of the late King Fahd bin Abdulaziz – may God have mercy on him – who built their buildings at his expense in the distinguished Al-Mu’tamarat neighborhood.
• The Artistic Memory of History
• The historical novel, an literary work based on events or periods from the past, finds in it raw material for the artistic novelist, who reshapes it within a narrative structure using his tools and techniques, thereby falling under the requirements of narrative art, to be a kind that transcends academic narration or documentation, and offers a kind of writing that combines the seriousness of history with the pleasure of imagination.
• It does not seek to be a mere reference to the present moment, but rather aspires to be a mirror through which it reflects the transformations and struggles of peoples, so we hear in it the voice of the marginalized, and understand their identity in a moment that gave birth to it or even its collapse.
• Our Cultural Transformations
• For quite some time, this topic has fascinated me to write about it, and in a quick conversation between me and Professor Abdullah Al-Husseini, the editor-in-chief of this newspaper, about this topic, because it is not just a cultural and intellectual topic, but a social and intellectual topic that stimulated me to write about it again, and from which we can present a set of opinions and ideas about who bears that illiteracy.
• I am strongly biased towards the illiterate, and always witness bias, and it is in reality not bias as much as it is a logical, rational, and realistic alignment, because a certificate does not necessarily mean everything. We may obtain a high certificate, but we have not been able to leave a clear impact of this certificate, and therefore we will be like someone carrying heavy burdens on their back, as we are unable to reach its meaning, goals, and objectives, and often I repeat in every meeting that a certificate does not necessarily make one a cultured or creative person.
• Between Certification and Illiteracy
• We cannot compare with precision of observation between one who watches the caravan from afar, and one who rides the thrill of the journey itself. Therefore, the understanding of the levels and stages of transition from one place to another, and from one level to another, is undoubtedly formed more clearly for one who observes the scene from a distance.
• I hold this simple comparison in our cultural scene – for example – through the journey of cultural transition that occurred to the village of Al-Miftaha in Abha, that distinctive summer resort in the south of our homeland and the enchanting destination. I speak here and I try to make this comparison between one who watches this transformation from before, and from one who has become, and what is the difference between the size of the transformation itself and what it does without realizing that there is a very significant distance separating the two stages.
• A Pause with Cognitive Grammar
• The traditional grammar has long been treated as if it were a fixed entity, but it breathes when it turns into a mathematical set of rigid rules. Thus, grammar does not become merely a ladder for speakers to climb cautiously, but rather it becomes an organic fabric imbued with human cognitive experience and with its biases.
• And while traditional grammatical schools tend towards an inductive process that begins with the prescriptive rule, “Cognitive Grammar” looks at language as an action that begins from the human being, cognitively not just logically. Therefore, it does not see in the sentence anything but the superficial aspect of what happens in the brain.
• Poetry Translation.. Between Language Incapacity and Text Fluidity
• Translation between languages has become easy, with varying degrees of difficulty. But what has defied translation is the translation of authentic Arabic poetry – specifically vertical poetry – into other languages; because of its nature, which relies on determinants such as exquisite rhythmic meters, lavish music, imaginative metaphors, and a fixed rhyme.
• While we do not find the same difficulty when translating prose poetry; as it lacks those determinants that distinguish vertical poetry, and therefore prose poetry – by virtue of its fluidity – can overcome translation obstacles, and this overcoming in turn tempted quite a few poets and made them turn to prose poetry, and intensify their presence through it; in order to spread and pass through to the other’s space via the bridge of translation.
• The Performative Power of the Semiotic Sign
• The concept of illocutionary force in speech acts is associated with performatives, which simply means: those acts that, in their essence – according to John Searle and other early researchers in this linguistic theory in the 1960s – in addition to the meaning they carry, also perform an action, meaning that “utterance is an act, or part of an act.”
• Perhaps the clearest example of this is when effective acts occur during the marriage contract between a couple. It is known among people that one of the pillars of marriage in Islam is (offer and acceptance). The offer comes from the guardian, and the acceptance from the man who proposes marriage.
• Linguistic Reflections
• The previous article concluded with the question: if truths existed independently, how can man know them if his knowledge of them changes their reality? And what is the distinguishing criterion between knowing truths and knowing the philosophy of phenomena, in both its ascending and descending aspects, as Plato sees it?
• Here, the ascending aspect’s appearance is linked to the theory of “recollection” (remembering the Forms), while the descending aspect refers to pure, primordial knowledge bestowed by a special class, namely “the gods.” Since language emanates from existing beings through their linguistic act, it must be an instrument of “naming.”
• The Symbolism of Numbers in the Arabic Language
• After long contemplation of the secrets of the number seven and examining its characteristics, the accuracy of its numerical connotations, and its symbolism in the Arabic language, along with the intertwining of meanings with architectural text. At the heart of this system emerges the “Waw of Thamaniyah” (the waw of eight), a linguistic indicator that requires contemplation and an application of wisdom, and whether there is a connection between their occurrences in the Quran and their rhetoric.
• It is certainly known that the Quran was revealed in the language of the Arabs, and the Arabs considered seven to be a complete number. If they exceeded it, they would start counting anew. So, the “Waw of Thamaniyah” here comes as an announcement of a transition to a new counting rank, as in mathematics: the end of one unit and the beginning of another. This makes us look at the matter through multiple axes. The first axis:
• Nisbett’s Unconscious Awareness
• Richard E. Nisbett is an American social psychologist who won the Donald T. Campbell Award for Distinguished Contributions to Social Psychology for his dissertation on “Verbal Reports on Mental Processes,” which he co-authored with his compatriot Timothy D. Wilson. His dissertation is one of the few seminal works in the literature that supports the argument that a large and diverse set of mental operations is responsible for the details of emotions, choices, and perceptions, in a way that is not accessible to conscious human awareness.
• As stated in Nisbett’s book “Tinker’s Memoirs,” he argues that we humans often do not truly know why we think or decide what we do, but we invent rational narratives for it after the fact. He believes that human thought is full of biases and illusions, which can be improved through simple cognitive tools. He also believes that culture profoundly shapes an individual’s thinking pattern, and more importantly, that Eastern and Western thought follow different mental approaches, calling for an awareness of the limits of reason and self-development through understanding the mechanisms of unconscious thought.
• Five Books Amr Al-Amri Recommends Reading
• This is a wide space for answers to this question, which we find everywhere: in classrooms, wide study halls, seminars, workshops, programs, courses, and curricula. Diverse answers in vocabulary and styles, but mostly revolving around the self and refining taste by developing specific axes related to the pleasure of literature and courtesy in literature, and language development.
• But this is not everything, even if all these answers are correct. Studying literature means, first and foremost, studying the trajectory of previous thinking patterns and cultural transformations of life, and knowing the level of civilization that has passed, is present, and will come.
• Why Do We Study Literature?!
• Literature was once the key to great nations before military equipment, and it might even surpass them in some technologies. Literature is an indicator that reflects the morale of nations, their steadfastness, and cohesion in wars. In the recent past, astute nations used to study and analyze the literary output of enemy countries, both near and far, to analyze their psychologies and understand their collective mood.
• They would isolate words from each other to deepen their understanding of the words’ connotations and the coherence of meaning’s strength or weakness between one stage and another. When this strength weakens in the context of the word, it means that the literary discourse issued from an individual or social psyche has begun to falter and weaken.
• The Sculpture “Eve”.. Femininity as a Human Value
• The sculptor Khaled Al-Anqari continues to enrich the cultural scene in the Kingdom through a new sculpture titled “Eve,” through which he enhances his artistic project that blends philosophy and beauty, and reaffirms once again that sculpture can be a profound language that converses with human beings and provokes their primal questions.
• Through the sculpture, Al-Anqari presents an abstract vision of Eve from local natural marble, embodying the image of the first female as a cosmic symbol of creation and temptation, of concealment and sanctity.
• Poems from Sweden
• The wind has gone to sleep / The moon is near / And sets behind a willow tree.
• I dreamt you came / I dreamt you came in a sunny rain.
• The Cultured Doctor in Fairuz’s Condolence
• Culture is not just a profession, it is not just images, nor slogans, nor claims. It does not lie in the largest number of certificates, or the multiplicity of media appearances, or dialogues. Culture is a behavior, a passion, and knowledge. It is a real attempt to bridge the gap and correct paths, and raise the level of awareness among societies.
• In the realm of culture, discussion and dialogue in various societies, in modern sciences, knowledge, and fields, I will confine this article to the circle of “cultured doctors” who did not limit themselves to working in hospital rooms or clinics, but rather took upon themselves the responsibility of enlightening and guiding, and warning.
• Epistemology of Criticism!
• There is no doubt that the theories emanating from critical philosophy have a great impact on the social structure and its behavior, and this interest in these theories and tracking them has become clear to us in our literary, artistic, and media outputs, from which they seep into the collective consciousness, and from here came that importance.
• Therefore, the transition of critical aesthetic concepts from being a conventional science to being an “epistemology” of criticism in the Arab critical concepts – and their multiplicity – means freedom, and this is due to the influx of many theories, especially in modern criticism.
• Targets and the Lost Goal
• August carries with it a bundle of challenges amid the scorching summer heat, global health challenges that demand deep attention, and cast their shadows over the lives of millions. It is a month where awareness and warning efforts converge, from immune diseases to the power of life-saving vaccines, reaching issues of utmost importance like natural breastfeeding. August is not just numbers; it is a call to action.
• The month begins with a UN warning reminding us of psoriasis, this autoimmune disease with no clear cause, threatening 125 million people worldwide. These challenges coincide with the celebration of National Immunity Month, which prompts us to question the extent of our understanding of our immune system and how to protect it.
• Drowning.. Its Causes and the Need for Increased Awareness
• In a significant step towards enhancing water safety, Saudi Arabia has globally led in meeting the highest standards for drowning prevention, after implementing 12 integrated national initiatives that contributed to reducing drowning deaths by 17% and averting economic losses exceeding 800 million riyals.
• This progress is a result of clear policies and training and awareness programs implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in cooperation with the Public Health Authority “Weqaya” and several government entities, to instill safe behaviors in swimming pools, coastal areas, and water bodies, which makes enhancing community awareness and training individuals to deal with risks a top priority for protecting lives.
• Saudi Sports Industry: From Hosting Championships to Building the Economy We Need to Localize Effective Models within a Saudi Framework that Reflects Our Specificity and Identity
• Since the beginning of the second decade of the twenty-first century, sports are no longer just a means of entertainment or a competitive activity, but have become an advanced economic tributary and an effective tool for national development and a catalyst for strengthening soft power for nations.
• While advanced countries witness unprecedented prosperity in what has become known as the “sports industry,” Saudi Arabia today, at a pivotal moment in its Vision 2030, and with its human, logistical, and geographical capabilities, seeks to redefine sports as an economic, cultural, tourism, and sustainable development driver, and an integrated environmental sports model.
• An Educator Achieved Success and Impact Before the Availability of Formal Education
• The kuttabs, or traditional schools, have existed since the early days of Islam and beyond. At that time, they were called “maktab” or “teacher of boys.” They were teachers who taught the Holy Quran, reading, and writing. Many companions of the Prophet – may God be pleased with them – were among those who taught people the Quran in Medina, Kufa, Basra, and Damascus.
• The most famous of these companions were Ubayy ibn Ka’b and Abdullah ibn Mas’ud, about whom the master of Adam’s children, peace be upon him, said: “Whoever wishes to read the Quran as fresh as it was revealed, let him read it according to Ibn Umm Abd (i.e., Ibn Mas’ud).” Likewise, Zayd ibn Thabit, and Abu Darda and Abu Jabal ibn Mu’adh, who taught the Quran in a large mosque in Medina.
• Rare Treasures
• Within the framework of what the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran Library contains, a collection of rare manuscripts stands out as one of its most valuable scientific possessions, preserved with extreme care within the Scientific Affairs Library at the Complex.
• The library contains approximately 54 original manuscripts distributed over more than 7918 pages in scientific collections, including a precious collection of manuscripts related to Quranic sciences, estimated at about 123 manuscripts in the fields of interpretation, readings, and their sciences.
• Unique Biodiversity and Flourishing Wildlife
• The Kingdom is considered one of the countries rich in biological diversity with its environments between deserts, mountains, coasts, and marine areas, which include 65 terrestrial and marine ecosystems. This diversity contributes to its hosting of thousands of species of living organisms exceeding 12 thousand fungal species, whether plant or animal.
• Plant species in the Kingdom are estimated at about 2300 species, and more than 1600 species of annual herbs and perennials, which made it the richest region in the Middle East in plant diversity.
• New Discovery Paves the Way for Autism Treatment
• The robot “Ai-Da” revealed this week a new drawing of King Charles III smiling, with a flower adorning his lapel. The robot asserted that it had no intention of “replacing” a woman. Ai-Da is a robot with a human appearance.
• A painting of Alan Turing (1912-1954), the famous English mathematician, created by it, was sold for one million dollars in an auction. This was the first time a work by a human-like robot was sold at auction.
• Al-Rashed Awakens Wonder in Philosophical Papers Held by “Falsafah” Academy
• The “Falsafah” cultural training academy presented its program “Post-Profit Philosophy,” under the title: “Awakening Wonder.” This time, the meeting to stimulate questioning and restore philosophy came in a space embraced by the board member Engineer Hamad Al-Rashed, presented by him as a qualitative reading in “Philosophical Papers” in the Saudi Philosophy Association and the Riyadh Philosophical Circle.
• He worked on deconstructing the tripartite relationship between the cover, the title, and the content, which is the central idea of the “Post-Cover” program. Al-Rashed began his paper with historical reflections on the emergence of manuscripts, tracing the evolution of their design to today’s publications, where human arts intersected with modern printing tools, and the image intertwined with the text to form a preliminary awareness of the content.

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

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The provided texts offer a multifaceted view of Saudi Arabia’s rapid development and global engagement, particularly highlighting its Vision 2030 initiatives. Several articles detail strategic collaborations in technology and infrastructure, such as the “Mer” platform’s expansion into Saudi Arabia’s geographic information sector and the kingdom’s significant investments in smart cities. The collection also underscores Saudi Arabia’s cultural and economic aspirations, showcased by its burgeoning e-sports industry, major sporting events, and efforts to boost tourism in various regions. Furthermore, the sources touch upon social welfare programs, environmental sustainability, and the broader impact of technological advancements on the economy and daily life.

Podcast

Saudi Arabia: A Global Expansion Journey

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing global expansion across multiple sectors, driven by its Vision 2030 and a clear strategy to become a leading international player in various fields. This expansion is characterized by strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and a focus on human capital development.

Here are key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s global expansion efforts:

• “Mar” Company’s Global Journey
• Ambitious Vision: The Saudi company “Mar” is leading an ambitious journey towards globalization, armed with a clear vision and accumulated technical expertise. Its strategic vision is “From Saudi Arabia to the World”.
• Strategic Partnerships: “Mar” focuses on building long-term, practical partnerships that achieve mutual development. It considers its advanced technical expertise in digital engineering and geospatial services a core specialization, making it a “leading multinational technical force” and a “trusted strategic partner for Chinese needs”.
• Digital Platform for International Cooperation: At the heart of “Mar’s” operations is its digital platform, which acts as an integrated ecosystem connecting Saudi and Chinese companies in engineering and surveying. This platform serves as an incubator for innovation and cross-border cooperation, facilitating regular face-to-face interaction between Chinese and Saudi teams to solve problems and enhance efficiency, thereby helping ambitious companies expand globally.
• Competitive Advantages: “Mar” benefits from Saudi Arabia’s strategic resources and markets, which are advantageous for Chinese companies seeking to expand externally. The Kingdom’s infrastructure plan, valued at $27 trillion, creates “huge investment opportunities for international partnerships”.
• Strategic Hubs: “Mar’s” official establishment in Deqing (Huzhou) City for Geographic Information was a deliberate move, serving as a strategic launching point for expansion into the Asian market. This city’s advanced industrial cluster, comprising over 400 specialized companies, provides a beneficial ecosystem for “Mar” to enhance its capabilities and expand its partnership network. Deqing is even described as an “aircraft carrier leading many small ships to sea,” illustrating its role in facilitating global expansion for specialized companies.
• Overcoming Challenges: While internationalization for geospatial data in Zhejiang faced challenges like information security and policy restrictions, cooperation with “Mar” “opens a new path for global expansion”.
• Exporting Expertise: “Mar” is not merely contributing to local transformation but is also exporting Saudi expertise to the world, affirming the ability of Saudi companies to compete globally and offer advanced technical solutions that meet diverse market needs. The company plans to expand beyond China to more countries, leveraging its acquired expertise. The model is expected to be scalable, with Deqing introducing over ten international partners annually.
• Saudi Arabia’s E-sports and Digital Economy Global Footprint
• Global Leadership in Interactive Entertainment: Saudi Arabia is positioning itself at the forefront of the global e-games and e-sports industry, aiming to be the “first global platform” for innovations in gaming technologies and a “global center for specialized education” in the field. This is viewed as a redefinition of interactive entertainment, leading to economic, educational, and cultural transformation.
• Significant Growth and Investment: The e-games sector in Saudi Arabia is projected to grow by a 23% compound annual growth rate until 2027, reaching over $1.1 billion, driven by local demand and investments in events and infrastructure.
• World-Class Events: Riyadh’s hosting of the World E-Sports Cup exemplifies its growing status as a comprehensive global destination that blends digital culture with global tourism. This event, featuring over 2000 global players and broadcast in over 35 languages to more than 140 countries, attracts thousands of players, journalists, and fans, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s image as a global hub that embraces diversity. The 2024 edition attracted over 500 million hours of global viewership and generated media value exceeding $1.2 billion, establishing it as one of the largest sports and media events worldwide.
• Youth Empowerment and Job Creation: The e-sports initiatives are aligned with Vision 2030, enhancing cultural, sports, and tourism sectors, supporting the local economy by increasing spending, and creating both direct and indirect job opportunities, empowering youth in promising sectors like technology and gaming.
• Broader Economic Diversification and International Investment
• Strong Credit Rating and Attracting Foreign Investment: Fitch Ratings has affirmed Saudi Arabia’s ‘A+’ long-term credit rating with a stable outlook, attributing it to the Kingdom’s strong financial position, significant foreign reserves, and commitment to economic diversification. The agency anticipates further progress, including opening land ownership to non-Saudis and implementing a new investment law, which will enhance the Kingdom’s appeal for foreign direct investment and accelerate economic diversification. Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its credit and economic standing regionally and internationally, attracting more direct and indirect foreign investments.
• Investment in Human Capital: Vision 2030 extends its focus to investing in human minds, as exemplified by the Prince Mohammed bin Salman College of Business, which aims to graduate leaders capable of making a real global impact. The Kingdom’s investment in human capital is seen as a benefit to the entire world.
• International Aid and Reconstruction Efforts: Saudi Arabia actively participates in international efforts, such as leading the reconstruction of Syria. The Kingdom has signed agreements worth over 24 billion SAR for economic cooperation, including funding for new cement factories and collaboration in IT, digital transformation, cybersecurity, AI, programming, and agriculture (modern farming, grain production, organic products, food supply chains). These investments aim to stimulate Syria’s economy, create jobs, and establish new companies, demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting sisterly countries.

Saudi Arabia’s Tech Ascent: Vision 2030 and Global Innovation

Saudi Arabia is demonstrating a strong commitment to technological innovation across various sectors, recognizing it as a pivotal driver for its global expansion and the realization of Vision 2030. This commitment is evident through strategic investments, advanced digital solutions, and a focus on human capital development.

Key areas showcasing Saudi Arabia’s technological innovation include:

• Digital Engineering and Geospatial Services:
• The Saudi company “Mar” is leading an ambitious journey toward globalization with a clear vision and accumulated technical expertise in digital engineering and geospatial services.
• “Mar” operates a digital platform that serves as an integrated ecosystem, connecting Saudi and Chinese companies in these fields. This platform fosters innovation and cross-border cooperation, facilitating direct interaction to solve problems and enhance efficiency, thereby helping companies expand globally.
• Their advanced technical expertise is highlighted as a core specialization, positioning “Mar” as a “leading multinational technical force” and a “trusted strategic partner” for international needs.
• The strategic establishment of “Mar” in Deqing, China, is intended as a strategic launching point for expansion into the Asian market, leveraging advanced industrial clusters there. This cooperation is seen as “opening a new path for global expansion” in geospatial data, overcoming challenges like information security and policy restrictions.
• “Mar” aims to export Saudi expertise globally, affirming the capability of Saudi companies to compete and offer advanced technical solutions, with plans to expand beyond China to other countries.
• E-sports and Interactive Entertainment:
• Saudi Arabia is actively positioning itself as a global leader in the e-games and e-sports industry, aiming to be the “first global platform” for innovations in gaming technologies and a “global center for specialized education” in the field.
• The e-games sector in Saudi Arabia is projected for significant growth, driven by local demand and investments in events and infrastructure, including cloud gaming.
• Initiatives like “Ignite” focus on digital media, including a specialized hub for e-games to train and qualify talent and localize knowledge.
• The Saudi e-sports academy, founded by the Saudi Esports Federation, builds strategic partnerships with global tech entities like Gen.G Global Academy and GGTech to offer specialized courses that enhance graduate competence.
• The World E-Sports Cup in Riyadh embodies this, showcasing the Kingdom as a comprehensive global destination that blends digital culture with global tourism, attracting thousands of players and fans, broadcast in multiple languages globally.
• Smart Cities and Urban Development:
• Vision 2030 initiatives, such as “The Line” in NEOM, aim to create advanced urban models that prioritize human well-being and nature over traditional urban issues like noise, pollution, and traffic. “The Line” envisions a city without cars or emissions, powered by 100% renewable energy, optimizing human life for ease, longevity, and health.
• Smart home technology is rapidly growing, especially in Saudi Arabia and the GCC, with devices like Amazon Alexa showing high adoption rates and AI capabilities for localized Arabic dialects. These smart homes leverage AI, big data analytics, cloud computing, IoT, augmented and virtual reality, and robotics to enhance life quality and reduce energy consumption (e.g., 40% reduction in electricity bills).
• The “Muttal” project in Medina is another example of a comprehensive tourism destination that incorporates modern design standards to enhance the city’s aesthetic identity and provide diverse entertainment options, showcasing adherence to global standards.
• Healthcare Technology:
• Hospitals like Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib are adopting cutting-edge surgical robotics, such as the Hugo™ RAS surgical robot, which offers high precision, flexibility, 3D vision, and full control over surgical tools. This technology significantly reduces complications, shortens recovery times, and minimizes tissue damage, representing a qualitative technological leap in healthcare services.
• Future visions extend to smart homes where integrated health clinics (e.g., in bathrooms) could analyze biological waste to detect health issues, identify deficiencies or infections, and recommend doctor visits, potentially enabling early detection of serious diseases like cancer.
• Saudi Arabia’s “Hevolution” initiative, a non-profit organization established in 2018, is a global leader in funding research to extend healthy human lifespan, aiming to develop advanced treatments and vital technologies that are accessible and affordable worldwide.
• Government Operations and Digital Transformation:
• The Ministry of Interior is enhancing digital transformation in region governorates, implementing technical solutions and leveraging artificial intelligence to improve readiness and develop strategic technological visions.
• A developed version of the “Sadaya” system has been launched to enhance digital integration platforms for national identity document issuance, supported by smart processing tools and integrated with national platforms like “Tawakkalna”.
• The Kingdom has also made significant strides in the digital economy, with its size reaching 495 billion riyals in 2024, representing 15% of the GDP. It ranks second among G20 countries in telecommunications and technology sector regulations, reflecting the robustness of its digital infrastructure and regulatory environment.
• The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development is leveraging smart regulatory tools and proactive methodologies to enhance compliance and establish governance rules in workplaces, leading to a rise in compliance rates to 94% in the first quarter of 2025.
• Strategic Role of AI and Challenges:
• AI is seen not as a threat but as an opportunity to create new job opportunities and enhance the economy. The National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence emphasizes building a robust digital economy and equipping national competencies with advanced AI and big data analysis skills.
• Economists highlight the tangible impact of AI strategies on reducing unemployment rates among Saudis, contributing to a competitive and attractive labor market aligned with Vision 2030.
• However, the sources also acknowledge challenges, particularly concerning data security and privacy in smart home devices due to constant internet connection, raising concerns about potential breaches and the need for robust legal frameworks and secure designs. The internationalization of geospatial data also faced challenges related to information security and policy restrictions, which “Mar” aims to overcome through cooperation.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Growth and Transformation

Saudi Arabia is demonstrating a significant and multifaceted commitment to economic growth, driven by its ambitious Vision 2030. This vision aims to transform the Kingdom into a pioneering and successful global model across all sectors, emphasizing economic diversification, human capital development, and leveraging advanced technology.

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s economic growth strategy include:

• Robust Digital Economy and Infrastructure:
• The size of Saudi Arabia’s digital economy reached 495 billion riyals in 2024, accounting for 15% of the total GDP.
• The Kingdom ranks second among G20 countries in telecommunications and technology sector regulations, reflecting the strength of its digital infrastructure and regulatory environment.
• There is a strong focus on digital transformation in government operations, with the Ministry of Interior implementing technical solutions and leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance readiness and develop strategic technological visions. A developed version of the “Sadaya” system has also been launched to enhance digital integration platforms for national identity document issuance, supported by smart processing tools.
• Strategic Investments and Partnerships:
• Saudi Arabia is undertaking a massive infrastructure plan valued at $27 trillion, which opens vast opportunities for specialized companies in engineering and geospatial services.
• The Saudi company “Mar” is a prime example, aiming for globalization by leveraging its accumulated technical expertise in digital engineering and geospatial services. Its digital platform connects Saudi and Chinese companies, fostering cross-border cooperation and facilitating global expansion. “Mar” seeks to export Saudi expertise globally, affirming the Kingdom’s capability to offer advanced technical solutions. This internationalization effort has faced challenges like information security and policy restrictions, which “Mar” aims to overcome through cooperation.
• The Ministry of Energy and Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development are partnering to empower beneficiaries of social security, providing integrated rehabilitation services to help them integrate into the labor market and enhance their economic independence. This includes providing free sites at fuel stations for permanent sales outlets for productive families.
• Diversification and Non-Oil Sector Growth:
• Fitch Ratings affirmed Saudi Arabia’s long-term credit rating at ‘A+’ with a stable outlook, citing the Kingdom’s strong sovereign financial position, supported by large financial reserves and rising net foreign assets.
• Fitch projected real GDP growth of around 4.3% in 2025, rising to 4.7% in 2026, primarily driven by increased oil production.
• The non-oil sector is expected to remain strong, contributing to economic diversification. The contribution of the non-oil private sector increased by 28% in 2024, now accounting for about 56% of the GDP.
• The Kingdom is implementing a new investment law to enhance its attractiveness for foreign investment and accelerate economic diversification.
• The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture has executed strategic projects exceeding 230 billion riyals, including planting over 150 million trees and increasing strategic water storage capacity by 600%. The Kingdom has achieved self-sufficiency in dates, milk, and table eggs, and is now the world’s leading exporter of dates.
• The tourism sector is experiencing significant growth, with international tourism revenues increasing during the first quarter of 2025. Initiatives focus on developing diverse tourism destinations, such as “Muttal” in Medina and promoting regions like Al-Baha and Asir for their natural beauty and sustainable rural tourism.
• Human Capital and Job Creation:
• The unemployment rate among Saudis saw a notable decrease in 2024, reaching 7.7%, its lowest level in over a decade. This is attributed to a package of programs and initiatives aimed at direct employment and training, such as the “Tamheer” program.
• The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s strategic presence in the labor market has led to a rise in compliance rates in workplaces to 94% in Q1 2025 through smart regulatory tools and proactive methodologies.
• Artificial intelligence is viewed as an opportunity to create new job opportunities and boost the economy. The National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence focuses on building a robust digital economy and equipping national competencies with advanced AI and big data analysis skills.
• The e-games and e-sports industry is a significant growth area, projected to reach over $1.1 billion by 2027 with a 23% compound annual growth rate. Initiatives like “Ignite” and the Saudi Esports Academy focus on training talent and localizing knowledge in digital media and gaming technologies. Saudi Arabia aims to be the “first global platform” for innovations in gaming technologies.
• Smart City Development:
• Projects like “The Line” in NEOM envision advanced urban models that prioritize human well-being and nature, with 100% renewable energy and optimization of daily life.
• The rapid growth of smart home technology in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region is noted, with devices like Amazon Alexa showing high adoption rates. These technologies, powered by AI, big data, cloud computing, and IoT, are expected to enhance quality of life and reduce energy consumption by up to 40%.
• Healthcare Technology:
• Hospitals are adopting cutting-edge surgical robotics, like the Hugo™ RAS system, which enhances precision, flexibility, and reduces recovery times.
• Future visions include smart homes with integrated health clinics that could analyze biological waste for early disease detection.
• The “Hevolution” initiative, a non-profit organization established in 2018, is a global leader in funding research to extend healthy human lifespan, aiming to develop advanced, accessible, and affordable treatments and vital technologies worldwide.

While the sources highlight significant advancements and positive economic outlook, they also touch upon challenges, particularly concerning data security and privacy in smart home devices due to their constant internet connection, emphasizing the need for robust legal frameworks and secure designs.

Saudi Vision 2030: Social Development and Transformation

Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing social development as a cornerstone of its ambitious Vision 2030, aiming to build a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. This involves significant investments in human capital, quality of life initiatives, social welfare, and cultural enrichment, alongside economic diversification.

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s social development strategy include:

• Human Capital Development and Employment:
• The Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development are collaborating to empower social security beneficiaries by providing integrated rehabilitation services to help them enter the labor market and enhance their economic independence. This includes providing free sites at fuel stations for permanent sales outlets for productive families.
• The unemployment rate among Saudis significantly decreased in 2024, reaching 7.7%, its lowest level in over a decade. This is attributed to a package of programs and initiatives focused on direct employment and training, such as the “Tamheer” program.
• The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development’s strategic presence in the labor market has led to a rise in compliance rates in workplaces to 94% in Q1 2025 through smart regulatory tools and proactive methodologies.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) is viewed as an opportunity to create new job opportunities and boost the economy. The National Strategy for Data and Artificial Intelligence focuses on building a robust digital economy and equipping national competencies with advanced AI and big data analysis skills.
• The e-games and e-sports industry is a significant growth area, with initiatives like “Ignite” and the Saudi Esports Academy focusing on training talent and localizing knowledge in digital media and gaming technologies.
• Taibah University has opened distance learning programs to provide flexible education opportunities, targeting high school graduates and public/private sector employees.
• Enhancing Quality of Life:
• The Quality of Life Program, a key component of Vision 2030, has shown impressive achievements in 2024, with 7 indicators reaching 100% completion and 23 exceeding their planned targets. It aims to improve lifestyles, expand cultural, recreational, and sports options, and empower communities.
• The Riyadh Award for Excellence was launched to enhance competitiveness and leadership across government sectors, non-profits, and individuals in Riyadh, aligning with Vision 2030 and contributing to improved quality of life.
• The Amanat Al-Sharqiya (Eastern Province Municipality) collected over 1.1 million tons of waste and trained over 16,500 individuals in public health during the first half of 2025, emphasizing its commitment to providing a clean and sustainable environment and improving urban quality of life.
• Projects like “Al-Mutal” in Medina are developing comprehensive tourist destinations, improving quality of life and offering diverse recreational experiences.
• The “Masar Al-Takhassusi” project in Medina, which is 80% complete, is developing recreational and environmental infrastructure, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors by providing green spaces, pedestrian paths, and facilities for physical activities.
• Al-Khobar municipality has undertaken over 80 development projects in the first half of 2025, including infrastructure upgrades, neighborhood rehabilitation, and street humanization, all contributing to the goals of Vision 2030 for quality of life.
• The rapid growth of smart home technology is noted for its potential to enhance quality of life and reduce energy consumption by up to 40%.
• Healthcare and Well-being Initiatives:
• Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system is rooted in the principle of “prevention before cure”, a concept highlighted by the establishment of the Public Health Department in Mecca in 1925.
• The healthcare focus has evolved from infectious diseases to addressing chronic lifestyle-related conditions like diabetes and obesity.
• The average life expectancy has increased to 75 years, with healthcare spending reaching 9% of the budget. However, challenges remain with 23% of adults affected by diabetes and high obesity rates, underscoring the ongoing need for population health initiatives.
• An independent agency for population health has been established within the Ministry of Health, signifying a shift towards proactive and impactful health strategies.
• Hospitals are adopting cutting-edge surgical robotics, like the Hugo™ RAS system, which enhances precision, flexibility, and reduces recovery times.
• Future visions include smart homes with integrated health clinics capable of analyzing biological waste for early disease detection, offering a significant leap in preventive healthcare.
• The “Hevolution” initiative, a Saudi non-profit organization established in 2018, is a global leader in funding research to extend healthy human lifespan, aiming to develop advanced, accessible, and affordable treatments and vital technologies worldwide.
• Social Welfare and Humanitarian Aid:
• The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) has provided over 30 billion riyals in aid to 108 countries globally. This includes over 4.27 billion riyals for 265 projects and initiatives in Yemen and over 230,000 surgical operations worldwide.
• Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its continuous support for the Palestinian cause, signing three Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in areas of human capital development, curriculum development, and telecommunications, information technology, and digital transformation. These MOUs aim to empower the Palestinian society and support its resilience.
• Seven new Saudi aid trucks, carrying food supplies, crossed into Gaza via the Rafah crossing, as part of the ongoing popular Saudi campaign to support the Palestinian people.
• Community and Cultural Initiatives:
• The Al-Ula Astronomy Club organized the “Wonders of Al-Ula Sky” event to promote scientific culture and connect the local community with space sciences.
• The Cultural and Arts Society in the Northern Borders Region plays a vital role in showcasing local cultural and popular heritage, establishing creative incubators, and providing platforms for artists to express their talents.
• The Buraidah Dates Carnival in Al-Qassim region is a major seasonal, agricultural, and economic event that promotes agricultural tourism and preserves cultural heritage.
• The Medina International Book Fair 2025 aims to enhance cultural awareness, support the publishing industry, and foster intellectual dialogue, attracting over 300 publishers and offering a rich program for all ages.
• The Prince Salman bin Mohammed Royal Reserve has inaugurated its first team of female marine environmental inspectors, with women constituting 34% of the reserve’s environmental inspection force, significantly exceeding the global average of 11%. This highlights efforts in women’s empowerment and environmental preservation.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s social development efforts under Vision 2030 demonstrate a comprehensive approach that prioritizes human well-being, economic empowerment, and cultural enrichment, aiming to create a balanced and prosperous society.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Cultural Preservation and Enrichment

Saudi Arabia, as part of its comprehensive Vision 2030, places significant emphasis on cultural preservation and enrichment, viewing it as integral to building a vibrant society and a thriving economy. This commitment is demonstrated through various initiatives that aim to safeguard and promote the Kingdom’s rich heritage, integrate it with modern development, and enhance cultural awareness among its citizens and visitors [Conversation History, 103, 290].

Key aspects of Saudi Arabia’s cultural preservation efforts include:

• Dedicated Cultural and Heritage Initiatives:
• Festivals and Events: The Buraidah Dates Carnival in Al-Qassim region is highlighted as a major seasonal, agricultural, and economic event that actively preserves cultural heritage. Similarly, the Medina International Book Fair 2025 is designed to enhance cultural awareness, support the publishing industry, and foster intellectual dialogue by offering a rich program of literary, poetic, and intellectual sessions. It also includes an interactive children’s area to cultivate a love for reading and creativity from a young age.
• Cultural Societies: The Cultural and Arts Society in the Northern Borders Region plays a vital role in showcasing local cultural and popular heritage. This society works to establish creative incubators, provide platforms for artists to express their talents, and document traditional crafts and ideas. It transforms local heritage into contemporary cultural products, illustrating the diversity and richness of the Saudi north, and teaches the philosophy of heritage and how to interpret time through it.
• Preserving Intangible Heritage through Art and Tradition:
• Arabic Calligraphy: The work of Abdulrazzaq Khoja exemplifies the preservation of Arabic calligraphy as a fundamental aspect of national identity. Khoja’s calligraphic art was featured on Saudi currency, official documents, and royal signatures, making him a “partner in the making of the state” and solidifying his legacy as part of the national fabric. His style is noted for its precision, simplicity, and unique Saudi character, seamlessly blending traditional elements with local aesthetic sensibilities.
• Culinary Heritage: The World Cup for Electronic Sports in Riyadh, while a modern technological event, notably integrates cultural elements by featuring a popular foods festival that showcases Najdi heritage dishes. This highlights the preservation of traditional culinary practices and their contribution to the region’s cultural identity, demonstrating how new platforms can be used to promote traditional values.
• Integrating Culture with Tourism and Environmental Initiatives:
• Cultural Tourism: Regions like Al-Baha are presented as key tourist destinations that combine natural beauty with ancient heritage. The area’s rich cultural heritage includes traditional farming, specific agricultural products, and various folk arts such as “Al-La’b,” “Al-Masahbany,” and “Al-Ardah”. Similarly, Aseer’s berry farms are highlighted for blending environmental and agricultural diversity with sustainable rural tourism, preserving and promoting agricultural heritage through interactive visitor experiences. The Khamas Valley in Taif is also recognized for its rural beauty and deep historical significance, offering a cultural and recreational experience.
• Scientific Culture: The Al-Ula Astronomy Club actively promotes scientific culture through events like “Wonders of Al-Ula Sky,” connecting the local community with space sciences and highlighting the importance of observation in a naturally unpolluted environment.
• Environmental Preservation with Cultural Ties: Initiatives like the “Saudi Green Initiative” and the establishment of the Prince Salman bin Mohammed Royal Reserve emphasize the preservation of natural resources, biodiversity, and green spaces. While primarily environmental, these efforts contribute to safeguarding the natural heritage that often holds significant cultural value and is intertwined with traditional ways of life.

Overall, Saudi Arabia’s approach to social development, as articulated in Vision 2030, includes a robust strategy for cultural preservation. It focuses not only on direct conservation but also on integrating heritage into modern economic and social sectors, using both traditional and innovative means to foster a deep connection to the Kingdom’s identity [Conversation History, 103].

Saudi Vision 2030: Progress and Pillars of National Life

Here are the titles of the columns written in this newspaper and their first two paragraphs of detail:

Column Title: Word The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, launched Vision 2030, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman supervised its design and details. He said, “My first goal is for our country to be a successful and leading model in the world in all aspects, and I will work with you to achieve that.” This was a firm promise stemming from a deep and unwavering belief that our homeland possesses enough wisdom, foresight, capabilities, and advantages to make it worthy of fulfilling this promise and achievement. The fruit of this Vision, and with the continuous follow-up of the astute leadership, has resulted in the tangible reality of the leadership we are now experiencing, witnessing transformations and qualitative achievements in all areas of life, carrying with it the great blessings of Vision 2030, with its determination and empowerment.

Column Title: Quality of Life The annual report on Quality of Life Program – one of the Vision 2030 programs – for the year 2024 revealed significant achievements in six pivotal sectors that contributed to improving lifestyles, enhancing cultural, recreational, and sports options, expanding the urban landscape, and empowering communities. The annual report, issued under the title “A High Life for Every Human,” provided a comprehensive analytical reading of the tangible transformations at all levels – economic, social, and cultural – and presented what has been achieved from the program’s initiatives and 42 performance indicators, noting that, with God’s help, 7 indicators achieved a full 100% completion rate, and 23 indicators exceeded their planned targets.

Column Title: Word The report reflected the program’s readiness for the upcoming phase of Saudi Vision 2030, by focusing on achieving more integration with executive bodies, expanding the beneficiary base, and stimulating the private sector. Everything included in the report with its impressive figures and results confirms that the quality of life reflects the deep appreciation of the wise leadership for human beings, and that they are among its highest priorities, even the core and cornerstone of its development. Therefore, it tirelessly works for their well-being, building reassurance in their lives, and that the relationship between the citizen and the homeland and its leadership is an extended and firm partnership deeply rooted in the soil of stability, loyalty, and fidelity to this entity, with the depth of the homeland and the authenticity of its history.

Column Title: The Interactive Entertainment with a Saudi Vision Did you ever imagine that electronic games would one day become an industry, a culture, and a global economic engine? In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this is no longer just imagination, but a reality being built with confident steps and strategic investments, at the heart of which is an ambitious vision that redefines interactive entertainment. The Kingdom is at the forefront of the global scene for the electronic games and sports industry. Through the development of the electronic games sector, the Kingdom seeks to empower innovation, enhance the digital economy, and create a vibrant ecosystem that supports players, developers, and relevant entities, in addition to enjoying entertainment. This is done through a set of strategic initiatives that include: developing a regulatory framework and governance that ensures the coordination of roles of public entities related to the electronic games and sports sector, establishing advanced technical and physical infrastructure that supports the growth of electronic sports and contributes to attracting major global events, providing financial and funding mechanisms to expand the scope of electronic games and sports in the Kingdom, and striving to be the first global platform for innovations in gaming technologies, enhancing its position as an open laboratory for innovation and creativity, and presenting the Kingdom as a global center for specialized education in electronic games and sports, and enhancing cooperation and partnerships between the public and private sectors with the aim of expanding the scope of national initiatives and achieving integration in the implementation of related plans, all supported by Saudi Vision 2030.

Column Title: Retreat of Unemployment to its Lowest Levels.. and Artificial Intelligence at the Heart of Transformation Artificial intelligence is not far from the countries that seek to transform and create more future jobs. The Kingdom enhances these futuristic trends, as Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, President of the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence, affirmed that artificial intelligence is “very important” and will have a significant impact on jobs, and that the employee will not be replaced by artificial intelligence, but rather by an employee who uses artificial intelligence. This vision, issued by one of the most important leaders, reflects the reality of dealing with artificial intelligence, as it is not viewed as a replacement tool, but as a means of empowerment, which is consistent with the national trend that seeks to develop human beings alongside technology, and it also opens up vast horizons on the occupational level.

Column Title: A High Credit Rating for the Kingdom Fitch Ratings, a global credit rating agency, affirmed its long-term credit rating for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at “A+” with a stable outlook. This rating is based on the strong sovereign financial position of the Kingdom, both domestically and internationally, supported by massive financial reserves and high net foreign assets (SNFA). The agency expected the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to maintain a high level of foreign reserves, equivalent to approximately 12.8 months of current account payments in 2025, compared to an average of only 1.8 months for similar countries rated “A”. The agency also expected this strong financial performance to continue in the medium term, with reserves expected to reach approximately 11.3 months in 2027, reflecting the strong external financial position of the Kingdom and its superiority over its peers.

Column Title: Has the world begun to abandon the dollar? In a world where economic events are accelerating globally, indicators are increasing that the global financial system is entering a transformational phase that may be one of the deepest since World War II, and the question that forcefully imposes itself today is: Has the world actually begun to abandon the dominance of the dollar? Well, let’s look at the numbers: – Global gold reserves – actual and potential – stored and declared: According to declared data, the actual gold reserve in the world is estimated at 210 thousand metric tons, which is almost equivalent to a current market value of 14 trillion dollars.

Column Title: Sadness Humans walk the path of life surrounded by many challenges, confronting the obstacles and predetermined circumstances. They are excused for the imperfections that result, for there is no blame or reproach, and the proofs of Islamic law confirm this. If what a person is raised on, whether it be national custom or the sound principles of reason, is weighed, it aligns with seeking excuses, a matter agreed upon as important realism for people, before they are looked at with judgmental eyes. For they carry in their dealings the reality that humans are weak beings, as their Creator, glory be to Him, described them: “And mankind was created weak.” And the reality that this worldly life is a house of troubles and hardships, and these imperfections are something that those around them will inevitably encounter. So they appreciate this and do not expect absolute idealism from others in behavior, and when they do not find it – and they will not find it, of course – they attribute to them shortcomings. And they imagine that it is possible for a human to be free from obstacles and impediments, and from forgetfulness and error, and that worldly life can flow purely.

Column Title: Seeking Excuses Indeed, some excuses may be personal to a specific incident, known only to the person’s acquaintances, while others are by nature hidden from view. It is therefore inappropriate to delve into them or investigate the excused person’s circumstances. If a person goes to the trouble of asking their brother about a hidden excuse, and the brother vaguely informs them that they are excused in some matter, then the questioner should be content with this generality, as it suffices.

Column Title: When the house becomes a battleground In a time when wars are fought behind screens, and hearts are buried beneath your walls, the most dangerous enemy is not one who stands outside the grip of pressures, but rather one who shares your roof, enters through the same door, and eats from the same table. The calamity is not that we differ, for that is human nature, but that our differences, which we express with a face of love, turn into bleeding wounds that do not stop, and into disputes that plant an unhealable anxiety in the heart. We begin as innocent souls sharing play and laughter, for we are born brothers with no choice. Then the years grow within us differences, and small disputes escalate or transform into walls of silence, neglected until they grow and turn into fires. Nothing exhausts a person like conflict within their family, for no argument or money can replace the warmth of a brother or the security of a sister.

Column Title: The Roots of Population Health When we contemplate the health landscape in the Kingdom today, from smart data systems to the expansion of primary healthcare centers, they appear to us as lush trees of achievement in a barren desert. However, what we see today is not a momentary creation; rather, it is an extension of deep roots embedded in the history of the modern Saudi state, roots built upon a simple yet profound concept: prevention before treatment. In 1925, the term “population health” was not common, but the founding King Abdulaziz—with his political and social foresight—ordered the establishment of the Public Health Department in Mecca, anticipating the health protection the country would need for its pilgrims and residents. This decision was not merely regulatory; it was an early declaration that the human being is at the heart of the national project.

Column Title: Saudi Investment in Syria.. Actions, Not Words In the morning of Thursday, July 24, 2025, it was not an ordinary day on the calendar of the whole world. Indeed, this day was created in the history of the ancient Levant, and its fragrance spread with jasmine petals of Damascus, a firm Saudi chivalry that flows to perfume the land of beloved Syria with the finest types of authentic oud. From the People’s Palace, the moments were decisive, and the reality of the scene is stronger than the eloquent description of words that convey pride. Is it a national shiver or eternal pride in our belonging, or a continuous praise to God for our honorable leaders who made humanity and Arabism a decisive factor in their rule for this blessed country.

Column Title: The Academic’s Well-being: A Shield of Academic Excellence Professional pressures in the academic environment are no longer a passing complaint, but have transformed into a challenge that threatens the very essence of the university’s mission, which revolves around three main axes: education, scientific research, and community service. The university professor, “the torchbearer of knowledge,” finds himself besieged under the triple burden of intensive teaching that accelerates with curriculum development and rising expectations, a frantic race to publish in prestigious journals under the slogan “Publish or Perish,” and increasing demands for contributing to community service and academic administration, amidst fierce competition for funding, promotions, and accelerating technological challenges. Reports from the World Health Organization (2022) indicate that the higher education sector is among the sectors most affected by occupational stress globally. This multifaceted pressure does not remain confined to the academic’s chest; rather, its effects are clearly manifested in occupational burnout, which exhausts the spirit and body, and leads to a decline in job satisfaction and productivity. This can consequently affect mental health, reaching high levels of anxiety and depression. As an inevitable result of the aforementioned, interaction with students decreases, and innovative research contributions decline. In the most severe cases, this exhaustion can lead to the attrition of distinguished competencies from the academic workforce, which squanders massive investments in building minds, as shown by an extensive study associated with Cambridge University and published in (2021).

Column Title: Yasir Al-Shahrani

• The former international star, Captain Yasir Al-Shahrani, may God grant him a long life and health, made indelible contributions to Al-Hilal team in achieving many local and continental titles, in addition to his participation in the Club World Cup four times!
• The former star, Yasir Al-Shahrani, was not just a player, but a great star whose name was mentioned with honor as he defended the colors of the national team in more than one major international event. The dangerous injury he suffered did not prevent him from continuing, but it was fate, and he recovered from it by God’s grace!

Column Title: Abdul Razzaq Khoja.. The memory of calligraphy drew the features of a nation Abdul Razzaq bin Abdullah Khoja was born in Mecca in 1930 and grew up in a humble home that embraced craftsmanship and the Qur’an. He left school at an early age after middle school, but letters never left him. He found in Arabic calligraphy a refuge and a bridge for self-expression, learning it self-taught through observation, experience, diligence, and meticulousness, in a time when calligraphy was writing; it was an identity. Khoja did not study in art schools; rather, he learned by the hands of newspapers and printing, developing a unique path for himself that combined his artistic flair with professional discipline.

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

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