Al Riyadh Newspaper: October 1, 2025:

The sources provide an extensive overview of Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day celebrations, featuring articles from the Al Riyadh newspaper dated Tuesday, September 23, 2025 (issue 20880). The content centers on national pride and loyalty to the leadership, highlighting the country’s rapid development under Vision 2030, particularly in economic diversification, digital transformation, and the role of the youth in artificial intelligence. Historical context is also significant, with several sections detailing the unification of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz, including accounts of the recapture of Riyadh in 1902 and subsequent major military campaigns. Finally, the sources touch upon Saudi Arabia’s international and regional role, emphasizing its continued support for the Palestinian cause and global efforts towards peace.

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Saudi National Day: Vision, History, and Future

This source is an excerpt from a 63rd-year edition of the Arabic newspaper Al Riyadh, dated September 23, 2025, dedicated to celebrating the 95th Saudi National Day, with the theme “Our Pride is in Our Character (عزنا بطبعنا).” The articles focus on commemorating the historical unification of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz Al Saud and highlighting the nation’s profound modern achievements under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince. Key themes include the monumental Saudi Vision 2030, which drives unprecedented economic diversification, massive investments in technology (like Artificial Intelligence), and infrastructure projects, while also detailing the Kingdom’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and its global diplomatic efforts toward a two-state solution. Furthermore, the source emphasizes the crucial role of the Saudi youth and women in pioneering the digital transformation and ensuring future prosperity.

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Saudi National Day 95: Pride and Vision 2030 Achievements

The 95th Saudi National Day (اليوم الوطني الـ95) is a significant national occasion celebrated annually on September 23rd. In the year 2025, the celebration took place on Tuesday, 23 September 2025 (1 Rabi’ al-Akhir 1447 AH).

The celebration serves as an annual renewal of loyalty and pride, offering an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey and its achievements.

Theme and Slogan

The official slogan for the 95th National Day celebration is “عزنا بطبعنا” (Our Pride is in Our Nature/Character).

This slogan is intended to reflect the core authenticity and values of the Saudi people, such as generosity (Karam), integrity (Asala), and ambition. It connects the profound link between the Saudi person and their land, highlighting that the nation’s pride (Azz) is rooted in its inherent nature, wisdom, and vision.

Historical Significance and Foundation

The National Day commemorates the historic event of the unification of the country by the Founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.

The 95th anniversary marks the issuance of the royal decree by King Abdulaziz to unify all parts of the country under the name “Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” 95 years prior. This unification followed a struggle that lasted more than three decades.

The founding of the Kingdom established a nation based on the values of justice (Adl) and national unity. It transformed scattered regions into a single entity united by religion, language, and a common destiny.

Achievements under Vision 2030

The 95th National Day is a time to celebrate the current comprehensive transformation driven by Vision 2030, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and the Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Key achievements highlighted during this anniversary include:

• Economic Diversification: The non-oil activities sector reached a landmark contribution of 56% of the total GDP for the first time in the Kingdom’s history. The total GDP surpassed 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals. Non-oil revenues showed robust growth, increasing by 5% in the first half of 2025, reaching 263.667 billion SAR.
• Global Investment: Saudi Arabia has shown an exceptional ability to attract global investments, with total FDI inflows reaching 122 billion SAR between 2021 and 2023. The Kingdom also exceeded the Vision 2030 target of attracting 660 regional headquarters.
• Digital and AI Leadership: The Kingdom is striving to become a global center for digital economy and Artificial Intelligence (AI). It ranked third globally in the growth of AI jobs. The National Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) plays a crucial role in shaping the global AI agenda.
• Quality of Life and Labor Market: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7%, surpassing the 2030 target. The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached over 35% by 2024, exceeding the Vision’s initial target of 30%.
• Housing: Homeownership among Saudi families reached 65.4% by the end of 2024, slightly exceeding the 65% target set for 2025.
• Tourism: The Kingdom ranked first globally in the growth of international tourist receipts during the first quarter of 2025, compared to the same period in 2019. The number of tourists (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024.

Celebrations and Loyalty

The National Day is a major opportunity for citizens and residents to express feelings of pride, belonging, and renewed loyalty to the leadership and the nation.

Regional and Community Events: Celebrations are held across various regions and cities. For instance:

• The Emir of Al-Qassim region sponsored a celebration that included various segments, such as the Saudi Ardah.
• School administrations in Taif marked the occasion by organizing various activities that aim to enhance the values of citizenship and belonging among students.
• The city of Hail deployed visual displays and carried out beautification works, reflecting the atmosphere of joy and pride.

Corporate Participation (stc Group): The stc Group participated in the National Day 95 celebrations with special promotions under the campaign name “وطن للحين نكتشفه” (A Homeland We Are Still Discovering). Promotions included offering three Mercedes cars, 95 other prizes (such as iPhone 17 devices, headsets, tablets, LED screens, and PlayStations), and special discounts on services. The group also organized a celebration for its employees featuring the Najdi Ardah and the Saudi Orchestra.

The Role of the Citizen: The prevailing sentiment is that the citizen is a fundamental partner in the process of building the future and achieving Vision 2030. The celebration is seen not just as a historical memory but as a renewal of the commitment to work hard and contribute to the nation’s progress.

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Unification of Saudi Arabia: King Abdulaziz’s Legacy

The Unification of the Kingdom is a foundational and defining moment in the history of Saudi Arabia, commemorated annually on the National Day (اليوم الوطني). The 95th National Day celebrates 95 years since this landmark event.

The Unifier and the Historical Context

The unification was achieved by the Founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud (طيب الله ثراه—may Allah have mercy on him).

Before Unification: Prior to King Abdulaziz’s success, the Arabian Peninsula was marked by political fragmentation, instability, tribal conflicts, and sectarian disputes after the fall of the Second Saudi State. The absence of central authority had a negative impact on the lives of residents and economic activities, with commercial convoys and pilgrims frequently exposed to repeated attacks. This tumultuous situation served as the primary motivation for King Abdulaziz to rebuild the Saudi State on strong foundations.

The Battle and the Struggle: The unification was the result of a long struggle marked by heroic deeds and sacrifices.

1. Reclamation of Riyadh (1902 AD / 1319 AH): This decisive battle is considered the first spark of the unification project. King Abdulaziz, in his youth, determined to restore glory to his family and establish a strong state. He led a small group of men, numbering no more than forty, from Kuwait. In the dawn of the fifth of Shawwal 1319 AH, he executed a bold operation to storm the Masmak Palace, successfully regaining Riyadh and announcing the beginning of a new era. The event was more than a limited military victory; it was a revival of identity and a spirit that was almost extinguished by fragmentation and disarray.

• The period leading up to the reclamation of Riyadh involved difficult times for the city’s inhabitants, who suffered misery after the fall of the Second Saudi State.
• Secret correspondence and planning were crucial. King Abdulaziz communicated with dignitaries in Riyadh, such as Hamad bin Ubaikan Al Omran, Sheikh Abdullah bin Abdullatif Al Alsheikh, and Rashid bin Hamad bin Assaker. These five dignitaries used the Al Ma’athar cave as a meeting place and hid messages inside the saddles of horses (Siraj Al-Khail). The victory of Riyadh was a victory for dignity before it was a political triumph.

1. Unification Campaigns: The unification process extended for thirty years of struggle and patience. It involved major battles, including the battles of Riyadh, Al-Ahsa, and Al-Sabhla, which shaped the landscape of unification.
2. The Al-Sabhla Battle: During this conflict, King Abdulaziz faced rebels with a well-organized army, showcasing clear superiority in planning and leadership. This victory relied on modern weaponry, such as cannons and machine guns, which were unfamiliar in the Arabian Peninsula at the time. The battle marked the end of the era of chaos and instability and the beginning of a stable state under King Abdulaziz’s leadership.
3. Integration of Regions: King Abdulaziz continued the unification of provinces, eventually incorporating Jazan and Asir through a series of successful campaigns, negotiations, and political maneuvering, thereby completing the unification of most regions of the Arabian Peninsula under the banner of Tawhid (Monotheism).

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Establishment of the Kingdom

The unification culminated in the issuance of a royal decree by King Abdulaziz to unify all parts of the country under the name “Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” 95 years ago. This historic event created a nation based on the fundamental principles of Justice (Adl) and National Unity.

The Kingdom was founded on the basis of God’s Book (the Qur’an) and the Sunnah of His Prophet (peace be upon him), ensuring that the nation remains proud and steadfast through the ages.

Key Foundations Established by the Founder

King Abdulaziz was recognized as a statesman (رجل دولة) who combined battlefield valor with political wisdom. Beyond military unification, he laid down solid foundations for the modern state:

• Security (الأمن): He prioritized security, establishing military and security forces to protect borders and secure trade and pilgrim routes. This transformed the Kingdom from an arena of conflict into an oasis of safety and stability in a short period.
• Political Structure: He established the Shura Council (مجلس الشورى), the first building block for modern legislation and governance, and laid the groundwork for various ministries.
• Religious Foundation: He relied on a religious authority derived from Islamic belief, which secured the support of scholars and tribes, making religion a central axis for his unification project and consolidating national cohesion.
• Education (العلم): He understood that education was the true weapon against ignorance. He encouraged the development of traditional schools and opened modern schools and institutes across the regions, helping to create an educated generation capable of continuing the building process.
• Economic Foresight: With the discovery of oil in the 1930s, King Abdulaziz laid the initial foundations for investing this wealth to serve economic development, dedicating significant resources to the service of the Two Holy Mosques.

The unification project was not merely about consolidating geography; it was about forging an exceptional social unity among people of diverse backgrounds and aspirations under a single identity. The unification of the Kingdom remains a source of inspiration and a title of pride for the nation.

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Saudi Arabia Vision 2030: Achievements and Transformation

Vision 2030 is the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and it is frequently highlighted as the source of the remarkable achievements celebrated during the 95th National Day.

Led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Vision 2030 aims to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future.

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Vision 2030, which was launched in 2016, seeks to diversify the national economy, decrease dependence on oil, and build a more varied and sustainable economy. The overarching goal of the Vision is to create a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.

The implementation of the Vision is characterized by clear governance and accountability, involving 96 specific objectives (on Level 3 of importance) managed and monitored at the highest levels.

Key Achievements and Milestones

The sources highlight numerous achievements across various sectors, demonstrating that the Kingdom has often surpassed its targets ahead of the scheduled 2030 deadline.

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1. Economic Diversification

• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: For the first time in the Kingdom’s history, the contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP reached 56%. The non-oil GDP grew by 3.9% in 2024 compared to 2023.
• Total GDP: The total GDP surpassed 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals (SAR).
• Non-Oil Revenues: Non-oil revenues showed robust growth, increasing by 5% in the first half of 2025, reaching SAR 263.667 billion (46.65% of total revenues).
• Investments: Saudi Arabia attracted substantial Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows, totaling SAR 122 billion between 2021 and 2023, representing 82% of the total FDI inflows from 2010 to 2020. Total investments in financial technology (FinTech) companies reached SAR 9 billion.
• Global Positioning: The nation has improved its ranking in global competitiveness indices, joining the G20 group of the world’s strongest economies.

2. Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Strategic Projects

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) plays a crucial and effective role as a main driver of national economic diversification and a principal pillar in building a prosperous future.

• PIF Assets: The PIF’s net assets under management reached SAR 3.42 trillion (approximately $913 billion USD) by the end of 2024, an increase of 19% from the previous year, securing its place as one of the largest and fastest-growing sovereign wealth funds globally.
• Economic Impact: The PIF’s cumulative contribution to the non-oil GDP reached SAR 910 billion between 2021 and the end of 2024.
• Company Formation: The PIF founded over 103 vital companies in diverse sectors, generating over 1.1 million direct and indirect jobs.
• Major Projects: The Vision includes mega-projects aimed at restructuring regions and creating new economies, such as:
• NEOM: Described as a future city that will redefine global tourism and technology. By early 2025, the completion rate of the NEOM project was approaching 80%.
• Qiddiya: A massive entertainment project.
• The Red Sea Project: Focused on tourism. The first phase of this project has already been inaugurated.
• King Salman Park: A major urban project in Riyadh, with the first phase expected to open partially between late 2026 and early 2027.
• Al-Diriyah: A global cultural and tourism destination.

3. Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

Vision 2030 places the individual citizen at the heart of the transformation, emphasizing quality of life, employment, and empowerment.

• Unemployment: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7% (reaching 6.3% in Q1 2025), surpassing the 2030 target of 7%.
• Women’s Empowerment: The rate of Saudi women’s participation in the labor market reached 35.5% by the end of 2024, significantly exceeding the Vision’s 2030 target of 30%. Women now occupy high-level leadership positions and are key partners in development.
• Housing: Homeownership among Saudi families reached 65.4% by the end of 2024, slightly exceeding the 65% target set for 2025.
• Volunteering: The number of volunteers reached 1.2 million, exceeding the 2030 target of one million.

4. Technological and Industrial Advancements

The Vision aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for technology and industry.

• Digital Economy/AI: The Kingdom is striving to become a global center for the digital economy and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Saudi Arabia ranks third globally in the growth of AI jobs. The establishment of the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and the launch of the Riyadh Charter for AI Ethics are key steps in setting the global AI agenda.
• Industrialization: The number of factories exceeded 12,000, with a goal to reach 36,000 in the coming years.
• Mining: The Kingdom jumped from 104th place to 23rd globally in the Fraser Institute’s Mining Investment Attractiveness Index in 2024, becoming a prominent global power in the mining sector.
• Military Industries: The localization rate in military industries surged to over 19% (up from 2% before the Vision launch).
• Green Economy: The Kingdom is working towards achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2060, investing heavily in renewable energy and green hydrogen projects.

5. Tourism and Culture

Tourism has been transformed from a neglected sector into a dynamic industry.

• Growth: The Kingdom ranked first globally in the growth of international tourist receipts during Q1 2025. The total number of tourists (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million visitors in 2024, achieved years ahead of the 2030 target.
• Cultural Infrastructure: The Vision has led to the development of arts and culture, including the establishment of film authorities, the return of cinema, and the rise of cultural institutions like the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra).

Challenges and Unique Approach

The Vision’s success lies in its ability to manage rapid transformation while maintaining authenticity.

• Addressing Challenges: The Vision successfully managed the challenges of global economic fluctuations and reduced dependency on oil income by diversifying revenue streams.
• Balanced Openness: The national narrative has successfully evolved, embracing openness while preserving national identity, deeply rooted values, and heritage. This openness is guided by principles that prioritize sustainable development, security, and national unity.
• Citizen as Partner: The Vision asserts that the citizen is the cornerstone of the nation’s progress and the primary engine for achieving Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Economic Transformation

Economic development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is driven primarily by the ambitious Vision 2030 framework, which seeks to fundamentally restructure the economy, moving it from reliance on oil toward diversification, sustainability, and global competitiveness. The achievements celebrated during the 95th National Day reflect significant progress across numerous economic sectors.

Core Economic Strategy: Vision 2030

The Vision 2030 strategy, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is a blueprint for building a diverse and sustainable economy. It aims to decrease dependence on oil and ensure that the nation maintains its economic leadership, placing Saudi Arabia in a permanent position at the forefront of the world.

Key characteristics of the current economic transformation include:

• Comprehensive Transformation: The country is experiencing an exceptional phase of transformation and growth, encompassing political, economic, and developmental aspects.
• Focus on Human Capital: The development is centered around the individual citizen, who is the cornerstone of progress and the primary engine for achieving Vision 2030.
• Resilience and Foresight: The Kingdom’s economy has demonstrated strong resilience against global market fluctuations, navigating challenges and transitioning from a limited-resource economy to a promising, strategy-driven state.

Key Economic Achievements and Diversification

The success of economic policies is evident in several quantitative and qualitative indicators:

1. Economic Diversification and Growth

• Non-Oil GDP: The contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached a landmark 56% for the first time in the Kingdom’s history. The non-oil GDP grew by 3.9% in 2024 compared to 2023.
• Total GDP: The total GDP has surpassed 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals.
• Non-Oil Revenue: Non-oil revenues showed robust growth, increasing by 5% in the first half of 2025, reaching SAR 263.667 billion.
• Economic Policies: These transformations serve as clear evidence of the efficiency of economic policies, which have succeeded in creating a more balanced and stable Saudi economy.

2. Investment and Capital Management

• FDI Inflows: Saudi Arabia has demonstrated an exceptional ability to attract global investments. Total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows reached SAR 122 billion between 2021 and 2023, accounting for 82% of the total inflows recorded from 2010 to 2020.
• Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF is a core driver of economic diversification. Its net assets under management reached approximately $913 billion USD (SAR 3.42 trillion) by the end of 2024, reflecting a 19% increase from the previous year.
• Capital Markets: The Saudi stock market is considered highly competitive globally. In the first half of 2025, there were 22 new IPO listings, which injected SAR 2.9 billion into the market.

3. Strategic Mega-Projects and Infrastructure

Economic development is being catalyzed by colossal projects that are redefining urban and regional development:

• Future Cities: Projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, The Red Sea Project, and Al-Diriyah are restructuring regions and creating new economic ecosystems. NEOM, for instance, is conceived as a future city that will redefine global tourism and technology.
• Riyadh Development: Major projects in the capital, such as the Riyadh Green Project and King Salman Park, are underway, aimed at improving the quality of life and creating a modern urban environment.
• Infrastructure: Significant investment has been made in developing advanced infrastructure, including sophisticated digital infrastructure that supports the transition to a digital economy.

4. Technological and Digital Economy Leadership

The Kingdom is strategically positioning itself as a global hub for the digital economy and Artificial Intelligence (AI):

• AI Growth: Saudi Arabia ranks third globally in the growth of AI jobs. The launch of the National Strategy for AI in 2020 was recognized as the best governmental strategy globally for AI implementation.
• Digital Transformation: Digital services and electronic payments have seen massive growth, particularly in the e-commerce sector.
• Regulatory Environment: Legislative and organizational reforms have created a flexible and fair business environment that attracts local and foreign investors. Saudi Arabia is focused on building an economy capable of innovation and stability.

5. Sectoral Development and Localization

Vision 2030 has targeted specific sectors for rapid growth and localization:

• Tourism: Tourism has been transformed into a dynamic industry. The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024, achieved years ahead of the 2030 target.
• Military Industries: The localization rate in military industries surged to over 19%, up from 2% before the Vision launch, creating a force for industrial independence.
• Manufacturing: The number of factories has exceeded 12,000, contributing to the goal of reaching 36,000 in the coming years. Sectors like pharmaceutical production, automotive manufacturing (electric vehicles), and maritime services have seen major localization efforts, moving from reliance on imports to achieving self-sufficiency and exporting.

Economic Development and the Citizen

The economic trajectory is deeply intertwined with social development and quality of life initiatives:

• Labor Market: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7%, surpassing the 2030 target.
• Women’s Empowerment: The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached over 35% by the end of 2024, exceeding the initial Vision target.
• Quality of Life: Significant investments have been made in housing (with homeownership reaching 65.4% by the end of 2024), health, and education, reflecting a comprehensive vision for an economy focused on and working for the human being. The quality of life program is an essential component of Vision 2030, aiming for citizen welfare and prosperity.

In essence, Saudi economic development is viewed not merely as growth, but as a holistic transformation guided by a robust vision, powerful strategic initiatives (like the PIF and mega-projects), and a commitment to leveraging technology and localizing industries to create a resilient, diversified, and globally influential economy.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: AI and Digital Transformation

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia views Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology not merely as tools but as fundamental strategic pillars necessary for achieving the ambitious goals outlined in Vision 2030, transforming the nation into a global digital and innovation hub. This transformation is marked by rapid advancements, major international achievements, and a commitment to integrating technology with national values. This transformation is marked by rapid advancements, major international achievements, and a commitment to integrating technology with national values.

Key Strategic Role of AI and Digital Transformation

The integration of AI and digital technologies is central to modern Saudi economic development, aiming to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil.

• Global Digital Hub: The Kingdom is striving to become a global center for the digital economy and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This objective is supported by the establishment of sophisticated digital infrastructure.
• Data as the New Oil: Saudi experts recognize that AI and data are the “oil of the 21st century,” asserting that strategic investment in data, rather than barrels of crude oil, is key to achieving sovereignty and creating sustainable income sources.

Institutional and Governance Framework

To lead this transformation, the Saudi government has established specialized institutions and regulatory frameworks:

• SDAIA (Saudi Data and AI Authority): SDAIA is a crucial governmental body focusing on shaping the AI agenda. Its establishment and subsequent initiatives have garnered international recognition.
• Global AI Summit: The Kingdom hosts the Global AI Summit. The first edition in 2020 (under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman) was challenging due to the pandemic but successfully defined the national AI journey.
• International Recognition: The National Strategy for AI, launched in 2020, was found to be the best governmental strategy for AI implementation globally for approximately three years, according to external evaluations.
• AI Ethics and Governance: Saudi Arabia is committed to ensuring that technological progress is rooted in ethical principles and national values.
• The Kingdom was among the first nations to release a document concerning the ethics of AI and data.
• The Riyadh Charter for AI Ethics was signed by 40 participating nations, making Riyadh a key center for drawing the global map of AI ethics.
• SDAIA has established the “i-KREE” (International Centre for Research and Ethics of AI), accredited by UNESCO, which is noted as the sole center globally focused on AI ethics research.

Achievements in AI and Technology Sectors

The focus on AI and technology has yielded significant, quantifiable results:

• Growth in AI Jobs: Saudi Arabia ranks third globally in the growth of AI jobs.
• Technological Localization: Efforts are underway to localize technology, including the successful localization of sensitive software, exemplified by the stc Group obtaining the SAS-UP license for electronic chips, making it the first communications group globally to achieve this certification from the International Telecommunications Union.
• Human Capital Development: Investment in the local workforce is paramount. Saudi universities are offering advanced programs for women in fields like AI and FinTech. AI training programs are being implemented to empower youth and provide them with active roles in shaping the future.
• Sovereign AI Model (HUMAIN/’Ilm): The Kingdom launched its own indigenous Arabic generative AI model called HUMAIN (or ‘Ilm), mirroring international models like GPT, but carefully developed over more than a year to ensure alignment with national and religious values, culture, language, and concepts. This approach prioritizes wisdom and authenticity over speed of release.

Role of STC Group (Telecommunications and Digital Enablement)

The stc Group acts as a national enabler (مُمَكّن وطني) supporting the digital transformation journey.

• Infrastructure and Services: stc focuses on developing the national capacity, investing in modern infrastructure, and accelerating digital transformation across various sectors.
• Hajj and Umrah Support: stc significantly contributes to major national services by deploying its technical capabilities and reliable network, supported by AI-driven advanced solutions, to manage millions of pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.
• Global Participation: stc participates in major global events hosted by the Kingdom, such as Formula 1 and the Electronic Sports World Cup, utilizing its infrastructure to ensure exceptional connection quality.

Technology in Economic Development and Future Cities

Technology underpins the Kingdom’s goal of economic diversity, extending beyond the IT sector:

• Digital Economy Growth: The economic policies have enabled accelerated movement toward a modern digital economy, characterized by the growth of e-commerce, digital platforms, and FinTech investments.
• FinTech Investments: Investments in FinTech companies have reached 9 billion Saudi Riyals, indicating confidence in the regulatory and legislative environment supporting innovation in this crucial sector.
• Mega-Projects: The creation of smart cities like NEOM is a powerful manifestation of the shift towards a digital life. These projects utilize technology to achieve sustainability and high quality of life.
• Cybersecurity: The National Center for AI (NCAI) and security agencies prioritize cybersecurity, viewing the defense of the digital space as being no less important than protecting land or maritime borders. AI is utilized for preventative security measures, threat analysis, and automated responses.

AI and Traditional Values

A central theme in the Saudi approach is the combination of rapid technological advancement with the preservation of heritage and identity.

• Integration with Heritage: Officials emphasize that the national flag (the green banner) and its symbolic significance are being integrated into modern technology, creating a balance between authenticity and ambition.
• Youth Empowerment: Young Saudis are seen as the core drivers of this AI revolution, actively engaging in data analysis, robotics, natural language processing, and advanced research to write a new chapter of the nation’s story.

Saudi National Day 95: Vision, Diplomacy, and Progress

This extensive source is a collection of articles and reports from a single publication, likely a Saudi newspaper dated September 24, 2025, primarily focused on celebrating Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day. The core themes revolve around the nation’s founding history and national identity, its pivotal diplomatic and economic role in the Middle East and globally, and the rapid, transformational progress under Saudi Vision 2030. Key sections detail the historical narrative of the kingdom’s unification by King Abdulaziz and its subsequent development; the central role of Saudi diplomacy in pushing for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; massive non-oil sector growth driven by tourism, real estate, and entertainment (cinema, Qiddiya, Diriyah); and the country’s burgeoning space economy and national media transformation. The source also includes routine coverage of regional news, such as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the passing of a prominent religious scholar, framing all national achievements as a renewal of the foundational values of unity, ambition, and global stability.

Saudi National Day: Unity, Pride, and Vision

The Saudi National Day Celebration (اليوم الوطني) is an annual, profound national occasion that commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. The 95th National Day was celebrated on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 (2 Rabi’ al-Akhir 1447 AH).

The celebration transcends a mere annual event; it is described as a “spiritual day” (يوم روحي) and a moment of renewal that reflects the nation’s journey of progress, unity, and pride.

Core Theme and National Sentiment

The official slogan for the 95th National Day was “عزنا بطبعنا” (Our Pride is in Our Nature/Character).

This slogan encapsulates the deep-rooted values and authenticity (Asala) of the Saudi people, such as bravery, generosity (Karam), and integrity. It connects the nation’s contemporary progress and ambition with its inherent cultural identity, wisdom, and vision. The celebration is an annual opportunity for citizens and residents to express feelings of pride, belonging, and renewed loyalty to the leadership and the nation.

Historical Commemoration and Significance

The celebration marks the historic date when King Abdulaziz issued the royal decree to unify all parts of the country under the name “Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” 95 years prior. This unification, which followed a struggle lasting more than three decades, transitioned the Arabian Peninsula from a state of fragmentation and turmoil to one of unity (Al-Wahdah), stability, and justice (Al-Adl).

The historical roots of the celebration also extend back further, reviving the spirit of the first Saudi state founded by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727.

Celebration Events and Expressions of Loyalty

National Day celebrations are designed to enhance the values of citizenship and belonging among the people.

1. The Saudi Ardah (National Dance)

The Saudi Ardah is a central cultural symbol of the celebration, transcending mere performance to serve as a symbol of strength, unity, and national identity.

• It is a ceremonial group dance performed by men standing in tight, organized ranks (صفوف مرتاصة).
• Participants sing patriotic verses and national poems while performing synchronized movements and brandishing swords (السيوف) and drums.
• The tradition is consistently maintained by the Royal Family, with various Saudi monarchs and the Crown Prince performing the Ardah in different ceremonies, recognizing its role as a cultural anchor and a reflection of national cohesion.

2. Regional and Community Events

Festivities are held across various regions, often transforming major cities into vibrant displays of national pride:

• Riyadh (The Capital): The city lights up in green decorations and illuminations, reflecting the colors of the Saudi flag, and public squares and major streets are decorated with flags and national symbols.
• Al-Qassim Region: The Emir of Al-Qassim sponsored a specialized symposium titled “A Tale of a Nation… The Beginnings of Struggle and Stages of Success,” as part of the 95th National Day festivities.
• Al-Diriyah (The Cradle of the Kingdom): Celebrations are held here to reflect the deep sense of authenticity (Al-Asala) and the historical significance of the first Saudi state. Events in the Al-Zelal district included photographic exhibitions of King Abdulaziz’s life, interactive workshops, and traditional performances.

3. Corporate and Media Participation

Major national entities actively participate in the celebrations:

• stc Group: The telecommunications group took part in the 95th National Day celebrations with special promotions under the campaign “A Homeland We Are Still Discovering”. The group organized events for its employees, including the Najdi Ardah and the Saudi Orchestra.
• National Media: The media sector, including press, radio, and digital platforms, plays a crucial role in amplifying national achievements and promoting the positive image of the Kingdom globally.

4. International Congratulations

The celebration garners significant international attention, with heads of state offering congratulations to the Saudi leadership. On the 95th National Day, King Salman and the Crown Prince received greetings from the Amir of Kuwait, the King of Morocco, the Sultan of Oman, the Emir of Qatar, and the King of Bahrain. The Palestinian Ambassador also extended congratulations, noting that the importance of the occasion extends to Arab and Islamic peoples, embodying unity and prosperity.

The Vision 2030 Context

The National Day is used to affirm the nation’s determination to continue the transformation process under Vision 2030.

The celebration serves not just as a historical memory but as a renewal of the commitment to hard work and contribution toward achieving the Vision’s massive goals, such as economic diversification, global competitiveness, and enhancing the quality of life. This focus ensures that the celebration embodies both a proud acknowledgment of the past and a confident gaze toward a prosperous future.

Two-State Solution: Saudi and French Diplomatic Push

The sources extensively discuss the Two-State Solution (حل الدولتين) in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting recent international diplomatic efforts, particularly those involving Saudi Arabia and France, and emphasizing that this solution is viewed as the only viable path to achieving lasting peace.

Diplomatic and International Commitment

The Two-State Solution has been the central focus of a high-level international conference co-chaired by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France. This conference aimed at promoting the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and implementing the two-state solution.

Saudi Arabia and France issued a joint statement at this international conference, adopting the New York Declaration. This declaration, which received “extraordinary support” with 142 votes in the UN General Assembly, reaffirms the firm international commitment to the Two-State Solution, defining it as an “irreversible path” for building a better future for Palestinians, Israelis, and all peoples in the region.

Key points regarding international consensus and urgency:

• Necessity of Action: The conference presidents stressed that the time has come for the international community to move “from words to actions” concerning the Two-State Solution.
• Sole Path to Peace: The UN General Assembly President, Annalena Baerbock, stated that the only way for future Palestinian and Israeli generations to live “in peace, security, and dignity” is through the Two-State Solution.
• Fundamental Right: UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that the establishment of a Palestinian state is a “right, not a reward or a gift,” warning that peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without the Two-State Solution.

Saudi Arabia’s Stance and Role

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia plays a leading and consistent role in advocating for the Two-State Solution.

• Fixed Position: The Saudi position is unwavering: the Kingdom calls for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
• Diplomatic Pressure: Saudi Arabia’s leadership efforts go beyond mere recognition of the Two-State Solution; they include taking practical measures to pressure Israel and support the Palestinian Authority.
• Welcome for Recognition: The Kingdom welcomed the recognition of the State of Palestine by countries including France, Belgium, Malta, Luxembourg, Andorra, Monaco, and San Marino. Saudi Arabia renewed its call to all countries that have not yet done so to recognize the State of Palestine and take concrete steps to support the Palestinian Authority to consolidate the Two-State Solution.
• Ending Occupation: The Kingdom affirms that ending the Israeli occupation and achieving a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, based on relevant UN resolutions, is the only way to achieve full regional integration.

Conditions for a Solution

The international diplomatic efforts outlined in the New York Declaration detail specific requirements for achieving the Two-State Solution:

1. Palestinian Statehood: The final peace must be based on the establishment of a sovereign, independent Palestinian state on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
2. Cessation of Violence: The peace process requires an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages and prisoners, and the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid.
3. End to Settlements: The Israeli government is explicitly called upon to halt violence and incitement against Palestinians and to stop settlement construction and seizure activities in the occupied Palestinian territories.
4. Security Arrangements: Future security must be built upon security arrangements that serve the security interests of all parties, with full respect for sovereignty. There is a commitment to deploy a temporary international mission to achieve stability, with training and equipping support for Palestinian security forces.
5. Palestinian Reforms: The process is supported by reforms initiated by the Palestinian Authority, including the abolition of the “Assessor’s Fund” payment system and implementing curricular reforms under EU and Saudi support. The declaration also welcomes the commitment to hold general and presidential democratic elections within one year after the ceasefire.

The Context of Ongoing Conflict

The calls for the Two-State Solution are made against the backdrop of catastrophic events in Gaza:

• The international conference noted that the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza is worsening, with the continuous Israeli attack on the city.
• The UN Secretary-General warned that the ongoing suffering, including the starvation and killing of tens of thousands of civilians and aid workers in Gaza, amounts to potential collective punishment.
• The Saudi-French declaration, issued in New York, emphasizes that the Two-State Solution provides a “principled and realistic alternative” to the cycle of violence and wars.

Gaza Crisis, Two-State Solution, and Humanitarian Catastrophe

The sources discuss the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip, framing it as a catastrophic humanitarian and military conflict, while emphasizing international diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a permanent peace based on the Two-State Solution.

The Catastrophic Situation in Gaza

The Israeli operation in the Gaza Strip is described by Palestinian and international sources as a “war of genocide/extermination” (حرب الإبادة الجماعية). Since the onset of the conflict, the Israeli occupation forces have launched a series of continuous air and artillery raids across various areas of the Strip.

Key Aspects of the Conflict:

• Famine and Destruction: Gaza City, in particular, is experiencing a severe humanitarian disaster amid famine, destruction, and killing. The Israeli occupation has reportedly failed to preserve any component of life in Gaza.
• Siege and Displacement: The siege remains stringent, affecting more than two million Palestinians. There are stated Israeli attempts to completely displace/evacuate the residents of Gaza.
• Specific Targets: Shelling and raids have targeted various residential areas, including the vicinity of the Ammar Jasir area, central Khan Younis, regions east of the Maghazi camp, and neighborhoods in the north and south of Gaza City, often involving fire directed at houses by Israeli drones. The Israeli army has also demolished residential buildings.
• Casualties: The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported a tragic toll:
• The number of martyrs has reached 65,344.
• The number of injured surpassed 166,795.
• Over 9,000 people are reported missing.
• The casualties include children and women.
• Dozens of children, among others, have died specifically due to famine and malnutrition.
• The conflict has resulted in the killing of 173 municipal employees.

The Healthcare and Humanitarian Crisis

The humanitarian catastrophe is rapidly worsening, especially in the healthcare sector:

• Hospital Collapse: Medical sources confirmed that work in hospitals would halt within a few days due to the severe depletion of fuel. The remaining functioning hospitals face a critically dangerous stage.
• Risk of Death: The halting of vital departments exposes patients and the injured to “certain death” (الموت المحقق).
• Child Fatalities: Three children died in the Nasser Medical Complex in southern Gaza due to malnutrition and lack of necessary medical care.
• Aid Restrictions: International relief organizations warned of a severe shortage of essential aid and medicine since Israel intensified restrictions in May.

International Demands for De-escalation

International diplomatic efforts, particularly those related to implementing the Two-State Solution, emphasize ending the current conflict immediately. The New York Declaration (adopted at the international conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France) and remarks by UN leaders stress key demands:

1. Immediate and Permanent Ceasefire: There is a call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as the suffering of civilians may amount to collective punishment.
2. Hostage Release: The release of all hostages and prisoners is a critical and immediate priority.
3. Unimpeded Aid: Ensuring the immediate, full, safe, and unconditional entry of humanitarian aid to all parts of Gaza is required.
4. End to Occupation: There is a demand for the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Strip.
5. Medical Corridors: A statement co-signed by 25 Western countries, including Canada and members of the EU, urged Israel to reopen the medical corridor to the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, to ensure patients from Gaza receive the required treatment.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that the establishment of a Palestinian state is a “right, not a reward or a gift,” warning that peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without the Two-State Solution.

Future Governance and Security

In the context of long-term peace, diplomatic efforts stress that the Two-State Solution is the only viable alternative to the recurring cycle of violence:

• Unification: The necessity of unifying the Gaza Strip and the West Bank under the umbrella of the Palestinian Authority is affirmed.
• Ending Hamas Rule: The declaration calls for the cessation of Hamas rule in the Gaza Strip, disarming the movement, and handing over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority.
• International Support: Future security arrangements require the deployment of a temporary international mission to achieve stability, with support provided to train and equip Palestinian security and police forces.

Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 Transformation and Achievements

Vision 2030 is the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is frequently highlighted as the source of the remarkable achievements celebrated during the 95th National Day.

Led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Vision aims to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future.

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Launched in 2016, Vision 2030 seeks to diversify the national economy, decrease dependence on oil, and build a more varied and sustainable economy. The overarching goal is structured around three main pillars:

1. A Vibrant Society.
2. A Thriving Economy.
3. An Ambitious Nation.

The Vision is described as a “national program of comprehensive work” and an “exceptional phase of transformation and growth” that reflects the determination of the leadership.

Key Achievements and Milestones

Vision 2030 has resulted in numerous achievements, with some targets being surpassed ahead of the scheduled 2030 deadline. The successful implementation is attributed to the efficiency of economic policies.

1. Economic Diversification and Growth

• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: For the first time in the Kingdom’s history, the contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than half or 56%.
• Total GDP: The total GDP has surpassed 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals (SAR).
• Sector Growth: The non-oil GDP grew by 3.9% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Key sectors driving this growth include tourism, renewable energy, manufacturing, mining, and logistics services.
• Global Position: Saudi Arabia has strengthened its position as the largest economy in the Middle East.

2. Investment and Strategic Projects

The Vision has driven significant investment, with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) serving as a major economic engine.

• FDI Attraction: The Kingdom showed an exceptional ability to attract global investments, with total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows reaching SAR 122 billion between 2021 and 2023.
• Mega-Projects: The Vision includes colossal projects aimed at restructuring regions and creating new economies:
• NEOM: A future city designed to redefine global tourism and technology.
• Qiddiya: A massive entertainment project.
• The Red Sea Project.
• Al-Diriyah Gate Project: This project revives the long history of the Kingdom and aims to be a global cultural and tourism destination.
• These projects are presented as a literal translation of the leadership’s ambition to diversify the economy and create a different future.

3. Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

The Vision places the individual citizen at the center of development.

• Unemployment: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7%.
• Women’s Empowerment: The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached 35.5% by the end of 2024, exceeding the initial 2030 target of 30%.
• Homeownership: Homeownership among Saudi families reached 65.4%, slightly exceeding the 65% target set for 2025.
• Quality of Life: The Vision reflects efforts to enhance the quality of life through improving infrastructure, basic services, health, and education.

4. Technological and Digital Transformation

Vision 2030 seeks to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for technology and industry.

• AI Leadership: The Kingdom ranks third globally in the growth of AI jobs. The national AI strategy was globally recognized for its implementation effectiveness.
• Space Sector: The Vision integrates the space sector as a strategic component for economic diversification and scientific innovation. The Saudi Space Agency (SSA) was established to realize these goals.
• Digital Enablers: Initiatives like the stc Group act as national enablers, developing advanced infrastructure that supports the transition to a digital economy.

5. Tourism and Culture

Tourism has become a significant economic driver.

• Visitor Numbers: The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024, achieving the 2030 visitor target years ahead of schedule.
• Creative Industry: The Vision supports cultural development, including the film industry, with specialized projects like the Red Sea International Film Festival challenge. The cinematic sector is expanding, with projections for the market size to exceed $1.2 billion by 2033.

The Vision’s Unique Approach

Vision 2030 is distinguished by its holistic approach, balancing rapid modernization with a strong emphasis on national identity and history.

• Authenticity and Modernity: The mega-projects embody a development model that balances authenticity (Al-Asala) with modernity (Al-Hadatha).
• Citizen Partnership: The success metrics emphasize the citizen as the core of the nation’s progress and the primary engine for achieving the Vision.
• Historical Depth: The Vision is rooted in the country’s deep historical legacy, utilizing the history of the Saudi state as a source of inspiration and guidance for future policies. The focus on heritage and historical sites, such as the Duriyah Gate project, reinforces this historical consciousness.

Saudi Media and Culture Transformation Under Vision 2030

The discussion of Media and Culture in the sources reveals a vibrant transformation underway in Saudi Arabia, driven by Vision 2030, which aims to leverage both soft power (الثقافة والقوة الناعمة) and digital advancements to enhance the national identity, diversify the economy, and elevate the Kingdom’s global standing.

1. Media Transformation and Strategy (Vision 2030)

The Saudi media sector has witnessed significant evolution, moving from traditional formats to the digital era, and playing a crucial role in conveying the nation’s voice both internally and externally.

A. Strategic Goals and Institutional Framework: The Ministry of Information’s strategy focuses on transforming the sector to be competitive and influential, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals.

• Vision and Mission: The vision is to solidify the Kingdom’s position as an influential and open nation globally, fostering a leading media sector.
• Key Objectives: Objectives include developing the media industry, increasing its economic contribution and size, enhancing the quality and diversity of media content, and reinforcing the positive perception of Saudi Arabia locally, regionally, and globally.
• 2024: Year of Media Transformation: The Minister of Information, Salman bin Yousef Al-Dossary, declared 2024 as the “Year of Media Transformation,” emphasizing a proactive future plan based on data, indicators, passion, and action.
• Governance: The General Authority for Media Regulation is responsible for overseeing and organizing the sector, ensuring the application of relevant regulations and statutes.

B. Technological Integration: The media sector is embracing digital transformation, including e-newspapers, podcasts, and social media platforms.

• AI and Media: The Kingdom announced the establishment of the Center of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Media. This center, the first of its kind in the Middle East, aims to leverage AI and data technologies to serve the Kingdom’s media message and build indicators for the responsible use of AI in media.
• Training and Development: Initiatives like the Generative AI Camp in Media target editors-in-chief and content creators to equip them with the necessary knowledge to utilize advanced technologies.
• National Programs: Initiatives such as the “Media Pulse” (نبض الإعلام) organize regular meetings between media professionals, focusing on developing various types of content, including podcasts and games.

C. Media Content and Promotion: Saudi media institutions are committed to shaping the narrative of the Kingdom’s progress.

• Key Initiatives: The stc Group actively participates in national celebrations and events, acting as a “national enabler” (مُمَكّن وطني) supporting the digital transformation journey.
• International Platforms: Events like the Saudi Media Forum (المنتدى السعودي للإعلام) and Media Oasis (واحة الإعلام) are organized to promote dialogue, technology integration, and global networking among professionals.
• Specialized Content: Initiatives like “Kunooz” (كنوز) aim to document the cultural and intellectual wealth of the Kingdom through high-quality visual content that reflects Saudi identity locally and internationally.

2. Cultural Sector Development and Vision 2030

Culture, heritage, and the arts are central components of Vision 2030, positioning the Kingdom as a global cultural and tourism destination.

A. Revitalizing Heritage and Identity: The leadership places extreme importance on history (التاريخ) and heritage (التراث) as essential elements for national identity and soft power.

• Historical Consciousness: King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasize using history to reinforce national consciousness, unity, and resilience against threats.
• Diriyah: The Al-Diriyah Gate Project is a major initiative focused on reviving the historical significance of Diriyah—the cradle of the Saudi state—and transforming it into a global cultural and tourism destination that balances authenticity (الأصالة) with modernity (الحداثة).
• Jedda Historic District: A significant project was launched to revitalize the historic Jeddah area (Al-Balad) and transform it into a global center for culture and heritage. This included surveying over 600 historical houses for restoration and creating a vibrant, innovative hub.

B. Support for Arts and Creative Industries: The Vision has fostered rapid growth in creative fields, particularly film and cinema, which was previously a neglected sector.

• Cinematic Sector Growth: The cinematic sector is expanding, with projections for the market size to exceed $1.2 billion by 2033.
• Screen Numbers: The number of cinematic screens increased significantly to over 630 screens across approximately 60 locations.
• Film Festivals and Challenges: Initiatives like the Red Sea International Film Festival and specialized challenges, such as those launched by the Red Sea Foundation, aim to build an integrated cinematic ecosystem and empower young Saudi talent.
• Cultural Production: Saudi artists and creatives are gaining global recognition; for example, Saudis excelled in nine fields of international cultural awards, securing 156 prizes, with architectural and design arts winning the largest share.

C. Museums and Historical Documentation: Cultural institutions are actively documenting and celebrating the Kingdom’s history through engaging methods.

• “Coin Stories” Exhibition: The exhibition “Coin Stories: Saudi Arabia’s Legacy in Currency” at the National Museum documents over 1300 years of history through coinage, serving as a material witness to national identity, civilization, and the journey of unification and development.
• Archival Work: Projects such as the revision and publication of the “Encyclopedia of the Diplomatic History of King Abdulaziz” underscore the commitment to scholarly documentation of the Kingdom’s political and diplomatic history.

3. National Day Celebration as a Cultural Expression

The National Day celebration itself is a significant cultural moment, reinforcing national values and expressions.

• Theme: The 95th National Day was held under the slogan “Our Pride is in Our Nature/Character” (عزنا بطبعنا), emphasizing inherent Saudi values and linking contemporary ambition with cultural roots.
• The Saudi Ardah: The Saudi Ardah (national dance) remains a central cultural symbol, performed by the leadership and citizens, embodying strength, unity, and identity.
• Artistic Expression: Cultural events feature patriotic works, such as the song “I Knew Love” (عرفت الحب) launched for the 95th National Day, which expresses profound love for the homeland, its flag, and the national anthem.

Saudi National Progress Under King Salman and Vision 2030

This collection of excerpts, seemingly from a Saudi newspaper commemorating the 11th anniversary of the King’s accession to the throne (“ذكرى البيعة”), highlights Saudi Arabia’s progress under King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The main themes revolve around national identity, political stability, and sweeping economic transformation driven by Vision 2030. Key articles cover the Kingdom’s commitment to regional and international issues, such as financial support for stability in Syria and a long-standing, unwavering political and financial prioritization of the Palestinian cause. Domestically, the source celebrates advancements in financial markets (allowing greater foreign ownership), the empowerment of women in various fields, and a massive push toward military industrialization to localize defense spending, reflecting a nation focused on comprehensive development and global influence.

Saudi Arabia Vision 2030: Strategy and Achievements

Vision 2030 is the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is frequently highlighted as the blueprint for the remarkable achievements celebrated during the 95th National Day.

The Vision is led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Its primary aim is to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future.

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Launched in 2016, Vision 2030 aims to decrease reliance on oil by diversifying the national economy and building a more varied and sustainable economic base. The Vision is structured around three main pillars:

1. A Vibrant Society.
2. A Thriving Economy.
3. An Ambitious Nation.

The Vision serves as a “national program of comprehensive work” and a “road map” for building a vibrant society and a thriving economy. It seeks to position the Kingdom as an influential and open nation globally, fostering a leading media sector.

Key Achievements and Diversification

Vision 2030 has driven significant transformations, often resulting in surpassing targets ahead of schedule.

1. Economic Diversification and Growth

• Reduced Oil Dependence: The primary goal is to shift the economy from being oil-dependent to one that is diversified.
• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: For the first time in the Kingdom’s history, non-oil activities have contributed more than 50%, approaching 56%, of the total GDP. This reflects the success of the diversification strategy.
• Total GDP: The national GDP has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals.
• Investment Attraction: The Vision seeks to transform the Kingdom into an investment-attractive destination. The economic shift is intended to make Saudi Arabia a global center for attracting investments and expertise.
• Financial Markets: Vision 2030 aims to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030. Recent policy changes, such as raising the ceiling on foreign ownership in listed companies (currently 49%), are designed to increase market liquidity, attract large global funds, and enhance governance and transparency, aligning with Vision 2030 objectives.

2. Strategic Projects and Urban Development

The Vision is characterized by the launch and execution of colossal strategic projects:

• Mega-Projects: This includes future cities and major developments like NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project. NEOM, in particular, is viewed as a symbol of the Vision, striving to be a global center for technology and innovation that transcends conventional boundaries.
• Urban Enhancement: Programs like the Riyadh Green Project and the focus on enhancing the urban landscape are designed to improve the quality of life and create attractive, efficient, and sustainable cities.
• Infrastructure: Extensive development has occurred in critical infrastructure, including transportation networks (like the Riyadh Metro and the Haramain High-Speed Rail), airports, and digital infrastructure, to support the rapid civil and economic transformation.

3. Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

Vision 2030 places the citizen in the heart of development and as the cornerstone of the nation’s progress.

• Women’s Empowerment: The Vision has led to a significant increase in the empowerment of women, who are now considered essential partners in development. The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market surpassed the early 2030 target.
• Youth Empowerment: Special programs for education, innovation, and business entrepreneurship were implemented to enable young people, who represent the majority of the population, to be effective partners in the national renaissance.
• Quality of Life (Joudat Al-Hayat): The Quality of Life Program (launched in 2018) is a foundational element, transforming the daily lives of citizens and residents. It aims to provide comprehensive options in entertainment, sports, culture, and tourism, ensuring a balanced and vibrant lifestyle.

4. Military and Technology Localization

The Vision targets strategic self-sufficiency and technological leadership:

• Defense Localization: A core strategic goal is the localization of more than 50% of the military spending by 2030. This effort has successfully increased the localization rate in military industries. This initiative aims to enhance national sovereignty, reduce reliance on external suppliers, and create an economic sector that contributes to the national GDP.
• AI and Digital Economy: The Kingdom is striving to become a global center for the digital economy and Artificial Intelligence (AI). This is supported by advanced digital infrastructure and institutional efforts to utilize data and AI in various sectors.

Vision and National Identity

Vision 2030 is not merely about achieving economic metrics; it is also a deep acknowledgment of the country’s history and values.

• Authenticity and Modernity: The transformation seeks to balance rapid modernization with the preservation of deep-rooted values and heritage. Initiatives like the Al-Diriyah Gate Project aim to revive the historical capital as a global cultural destination, reinforcing national identity (Al-Asala).
• Continuous Improvement: The Vision is regarded as an “irreversible path” and a source of inspiration, serving as a roadmap for continuous development and a commitment to hard work to fulfill the nation’s aspirations.

Saudi National Day: Unification and Vision 2030

The Saudi National Day (اليوم الوطني) is a profound annual celebration that commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by its founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. It is officially observed on September 23rd.

The celebration is not merely an annual event but is described as a “spiritual day” and a moment of national renewal that reflects the nation’s journey of progress, unity, and pride.

The 95th National Day Context (2025)

The sources specifically detail the celebration of the 95th National Day, which took place on Thursday, September 25, 2025 (corresponding to 3 Rabi’ al-Akhir 1447 AH).

Theme and Slogan

The official slogan for the 95th National Day celebration was “عزنا بطبعنا” (Our Pride is in Our Nature/Character).

• This slogan reflects the deep-rooted values and authenticity (Al-Asala) of the Saudi people, such as generosity, integrity, ambition, and the intrinsic wisdom of the nation.
• It serves to affirm that the nation’s pride is rooted in its inherent nature and character.
• The slogan “Our Pride is in Our Nature” was used in multiple celebration events, including the artistic festivities in Jeddah.

Historical Significance

The National Day commemorates the historic event 95 years prior when King Abdulaziz issued the royal decree to unify all parts of the country under the name “Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”. This unification transitioned the Arabian Peninsula from fragmentation to a state of unity, stability, and justice, rooted in the principles of the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet.

The celebration reinforces historical consciousness by tying the founding history—often summarized by the milestones of founding, resilience, and unification—to the current era of development.

Expressions of Celebration and Loyalty

The National Day is a major opportunity for citizens and residents to express feelings of pride, belonging, and renewed loyalty (الولاء) to the leadership and the nation.

1. Public and Regional Festivities

Celebrations are held across various regions, often transforming major cities into vibrant displays:

• Riyadh (The Capital): The skies of Riyadh were lit up by fireworks displays in the areas of KAFD and Banban. Public squares and major streets are typically decorated with green illuminations, national flags, and symbols.
• Eastern Region (Al-Sharqiya) and Dammam: Celebrations were organized on the waterfront, featuring fireworks under the “Our Pride is in Our Nature” slogan.
• Qassim Region: The Emir of Al-Qassim, Prince Faisal bin Mishaal, sponsored a mass celebration and a National Day parade, which involved over 50 government and private entities, showcasing national achievements and unity between the leadership and the people. The governorate of Al-Mithnab also held celebrations, featuring the Saudi Ardah and fireworks.
• Tabuk: The celebration included parades of security sectors affiliated with the Ministry of Interior, showcasing the advanced capabilities of the security system.

2. The Saudi Ardah (National Dance)

The Saudi Ardah remains a central and profound cultural symbol of the celebration. It symbolizes strength, unity, and national identity. Prince Faisal bin Mishaal participated in the Ardah alongside the local residents during the Qassim festivities.

3. Cultural and Artistic Events

The cultural sector plays a significant role, leveraging arts to express patriotism:

• “Fanoon Jeddah” (Jeddah Arts): Celebrations included a large concert featuring artists such as Fouad Abdulwahed and Umaima Talib, performed under the slogan “Our Pride is in Our Nature,” in line with the Quality of Life Program objectives of Vision 2030.
• Literary Events: “Kaisariya Al-Kitab” (The Book Market) hosted a cultural evening featuring the book “Milestones of the Saudi State: Foundation – Resilience – Unification,” emphasizing the nation’s history and unification journey.
• Military Participation: Female military personnel participated prominently in security parades organized by the Ministry of Interior in Riyadh under the slogan “Pride of the Nation” (عز الوطن), demonstrating the empowerment of women in security and defense fields.

National Day in the Context of Vision 2030

Today, the National Day celebration is viewed through the lens of Vision 2030. It serves as a platform to market the nation’s contemporary progress and ambitions.

• Showcasing Achievements: The day is used as a vital platform to showcase palpable achievements across various sectors, including economic diversification, social development (like the empowerment of women), infrastructure advancement, and the rise of the culture and entertainment industry.
• Renewal of Commitment: The celebration is a moment for the nation—leadership and citizens—to renew the collective commitment to continue the trajectory of development and transformation toward a prosperous future, confirming that the path of Vision 2030 is an “irreversible path”.
• Connecting Past and Future: The national narrative highlights that the historic achievements of the founding generation (establishing security and unity) are now being built upon by the current generation, utilizing Vision 2030 as the roadmap to a future that honors the country’s history and achieves its aspirations.

Saudi Arabia and the Two-State Solution for Palestine

The Palestinian Cause (القضية الفلسطينية) holds a central and unwavering position in Saudi foreign policy and diplomatic efforts, historically and under the current leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Saudi Arabia views this issue as a geopolitical, economic, and humanitarian priority, and the sources emphasize that the only viable solution is the Two-State Solution.

Saudi Arabia’s Fixed and Historical Stance

The Kingdom’s political stance regarding Palestine is described as fixed and constant (مسار ثابت).

• Unyielding Support: The Kingdom consistently defends Arab and Islamic causes, with the Palestinian Cause being paramount.
• Two-State Solution: The core of the Saudi position is the call for the establishment of a sovereign, independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
• International Forums: Saudi Arabia utilizes all available means to convey and defend the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights in international forums.

Diplomatic Initiatives and Historical Milestones

Saudi diplomacy has been actively engaged in seeking a resolution since the founding of the state, consistently supporting the Palestinian Authority and statehood recognition.

1. Early Recognition (1988): Saudi Arabia was among the first countries to recognize the State of Palestine following the Palestine Liberation Organization’s (PLO) declaration in November 1988.
2. King Fahd’s Initiative (1981): This initiative included eight basic principles, such as Israel’s withdrawal from all occupied Arab territories since 1967, the removal of settlements, guaranteeing freedom of worship, and recognizing the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. This later became the cornerstone for broader Arab peace efforts.
3. King Abdullah’s Arab Peace Initiative (2002): Proposed by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, this landmark initiative (adopted by Arab leaders at the Beirut Summit) offered a comprehensive peace framework: Arab recognition of Israel in exchange for full Israeli withdrawal from the 1967 occupied territories and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. This initiative transformed the file from a bilateral issue into a comprehensive regional peace approach.
4. Support During Crises: King Salman, since his time as Prince of Riyadh, has headed various popular committees for supporting the Palestinian people with relief and aid.

Recent Diplomatic Efforts: The Two-State Solution Conference

Recent efforts have focused on translating political support into concrete international action, particularly through the Conference on the Two-State Solution (مؤتمر حل الدولتين).

• International Consensus: This solution is affirmed as the “only way” to achieve a just and lasting peace and the only viable path to security and stability in the region.
• Irreversible Path: International efforts, including the conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France (and the adoption of the New York Declaration), emphasize that the Two-State Solution must be treated as an “irreversible path”.
• Recognition of Statehood: Saudi Arabia welcomed the increasing recognition of the State of Palestine by various European and international countries, urging all nations that have not yet done so to recognize Palestine. The Kingdom sees this recognition as a practical response to Israeli attempts to impose colonial sovereignty, especially over Jerusalem.
• Ending Hamas Rule: Diplomatic efforts include demands for the cessation of Hamas rule in the Gaza Strip, the disarming of the movement, and the unification of Gaza and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.

The Context of the Gaza Conflict

The urgent need for a resolution is highlighted by the military escalation and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

• Catastrophe in Gaza: The situation in Gaza is described as a catastrophic humanitarian disaster marked by destruction, famine, and killing, with the number of martyrs and injured rising dramatically. Dozens of children have died due to malnutrition and lack of necessary medical care.
• Demands for Ceasefire and Aid: International efforts demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid.
• Condemnation of Displacement: Official statements condemn crimes of mass extermination and the continuous Israeli attempts to impose forced displacement (التهجير القسري), asserting that citizens remain steadfast and refuse evacuation attempts toward the south.

Financial and Humanitarian Support

Saudi support extends beyond diplomacy to practical financial and humanitarian aid:

• Financial Commitments: The Kingdom provides substantial financial and institutional assistance, including emergency aid, funding for infrastructure, health, and education projects, and regular contributions to UN agencies like UNRWA (UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees).
• Dual Strategy: Saudi Arabia’s financial contributions are part of a dual strategy that provides tangible support to alleviate daily suffering while strengthening the Palestinian position in international forums.
• Security Concerns: The Kingdom also utilizes its diplomatic weight to mediate and help coordinate international and regional efforts aimed at achieving security arrangements that protect all parties involved.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Transformation

Economic diversification is the central and defining strategy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, primarily driven by Vision 2030. This comprehensive strategic framework aims to fundamentally restructure the national economy, lessening its historical reliance on oil and building a more varied, sustainable, and globally competitive economic base.

The successes achieved through this strategy are frequently highlighted, particularly during national events like the 95th National Day celebration, serving as evidence of the efficiency of economic policies.

Core Strategy and Goals

Vision 2030, led by King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is the blueprint for this economic transformation. The transformation involves comprehensive work across political, economic, and developmental sectors.

The primary objectives of economic diversification include:

• Decreasing Reliance on Oil: Transforming the national economy from being primarily oil-dependent to one that is diversified and sustainable.
• Global Competitiveness: Positioning the Kingdom as an influential global power and a major contributor to the global economy.
• Building a Thriving Economy: The economic pillar of Vision 2030 is aimed at creating a prosperous environment supported by structural reforms.

Key Achievements and Metrics

The execution of Vision 2030 has yielded significant, measurable achievements, often surpassing initial targets.

1. Non-Oil GDP and Revenue Growth:

• Landmark Contribution: For the first time, the contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than 50%, nearing 56%.
• Total GDP: The total national output has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals.
• Policy Efficiency: The increase in non-oil revenue confirms the successful implementation of economic policies in creating a more balanced and stable Saudi economy.

2. Investment, Capital, and Financial Markets:

• Attracting Investment: Vision 2030 seeks to transform the Kingdom into an investment-attractive destination. This strategy emphasizes creating a flexible and fair business environment to attract both local and foreign investors.
• Foreign Investment Policy Shift: A major strategic step involves raising the ceiling on foreign investor ownership in listed companies to nearly 49%. This move is expected to attract substantial foreign investment funds, potentially generating over $10 billion in cash flow, thereby increasing market liquidity and global competitiveness.
• PIF and Strategic Investment: The Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a core driver of economic diversification, founding numerous vital companies in diverse sectors.
• Global Ranking: A strategic goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030. The Saudi market is already a member of the G20, the world’s strongest economies.

3. Strategic Mega-Projects and Sectoral Development: Diversification is being realized through colossal strategic projects across the Kingdom:

• Future Cities: Projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project are intended to restructure regions and create new economic ecosystems focused on tourism, technology, and sustainability. NEOM is seen as a major center for technology and innovation.
• Tourism: The tourism sector has undergone a massive transformation, with the number of visitors increasing significantly. The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 27 million tourists in 2024. The Kingdom has also opened its doors to the world by introducing electronic tourist visas.
• Military Industries Localization: A crucial economic and security objective is to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030. This localization rate has surged from 2% before Vision 2030 to 19.35% by the end of 2023, transforming the sector from an import burden into an economic and industrial asset.
• Manufacturing and Mining: Efforts are underway to support the manufacturing sector. The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources is active in enhancing cooperation, particularly with China, to expand the mining and industrial base, which offers vast investment opportunities from exploration to processing.
• Green Economy: Economic diversification also includes prioritizing environmental sustainability, launching major initiatives like the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative to attract environmental investments and achieve long-term sustainability.

Economic Development and Human Capital

The strategy emphasizes that economic development is inseparable from the development and well-being of the citizen, who is considered the cornerstone of the nation’s progress.

• Labor Market Achievements: Vision 2030 has enabled the national workforce by launching quality programs for qualification, support, and innovation. The unemployment rate among Saudis has dropped to less than 7%.
• Women’s Empowerment: Women are now considered effective partners in national development. Their participation rate in the labor market exceeded the 2030 targets.
• Quality of Life: The Quality of Life Program (Joudat Al-Hayat) aims to enhance urban landscapes, municipal services, health, education, and leisure options, ensuring a vibrant, prosperous, and engaging environment for all residents. Homeownership programs, such as “Sakan,” have helped hundreds of thousands of citizens own homes.

In summary, Vision 2030 represents an “irreversible path” of transformation, where economic diversification is successfully moving the Kingdom toward a globally influential, technologically advanced, and sustainable economy that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens.

Saudi Military Industry Localization: Vision 2030

The development of Saudi Military Industries is a core strategic objective within Vision 2030, aimed at transitioning the Kingdom from being primarily an importer of defense equipment to a major domestic producer and global player. This ambitious transformation focuses on enhancing national security, achieving self-sufficiency, and diversifying the economy.

Strategic Goal: Localization and Economic Impact

The central goal regarding military industries is clear and quantifiable: the Kingdom aims to localize more than 50% of its military spending by the year 2030.

This objective is not merely a slogan but is driven by a profound national conviction that national security is incomplete without self-sufficiency in the defense industries.

• Localization Progress: The localization rate in military industries has surged significantly, increasing from 2% before the launch of Vision 2030 to 19.35% by the end of 2023. There is a clear acceleration expected through 2024 and 2025 via technology transfer and internal production lines.
• Economic Transformation: The localization process is designed to turn the defense sector from a financial burden (due to imports) into an economic and industrial asset. This transformation creates thousands of direct and indirect jobs in maintenance, engineering, research, and development.
• Sovereignty and Independence: Domestic production provides the Kingdom with an independent strategic capability to meet its defense needs without being dependent on foreign suppliers or political pressures from abroad. This enhances national sovereignty and strategic security.

Governance and Key Institutions

To manage this accelerated development, specialized institutions have been established to regulate, enable, and execute the strategy:

1. General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI): Established in 2017, GAMI is the governing body responsible for organizing, developing, and monitoring the performance of the military industries sector. GAMI acts as the regulator, enabler, and licensor for the sector.
2. Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI): SAMI is the industrial and investment arm of the strategic sector, wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). SAMI has grown rapidly, entering the top 100 list of global defense companies in less than five years since its establishment. SAMI’s role includes full acquisition of advanced electronics companies to expand capabilities in areas like electronics, radars, and military communications.

Sectoral Development and Partnerships

The strategy involves intense focus on several key defense domains, supported by strategic partnerships and technology transfer agreements:

• Aerospace and Aviation: Strategic collaborations with global partners focus on localizing assembly of aircraft structures and components, developing electronic components, navigation systems, and radar technology. Efforts include the establishment of a joint maintenance support center for helicopters, along with agreements to transfer expertise for the repair and overhaul of combat aircraft.
• Missiles and Ammunition: The Kingdom is developing local manufacturing and maintenance capabilities for missile systems, including the CAMM missile family (through a joint venture with SAMI), focusing on gradually transferring knowledge for design and production.
• Naval and Land Systems: Development projects include the HAZEM combat management systems for naval vessels, ensuring integration and localization of offensive naval capabilities. For land systems, partnerships (such as SAMI – Amentum) focus on maintenance and modernization for land platforms and localizing the production of spare parts.
• Defense Trade and Events: The Kingdom actively promotes its industrial capabilities, exemplified by the World Defense Show 2024 in Riyadh, which concluded with the signing of 61 procurement contracts worth over 26 billion Riyals. A significant portion of these deals is directed toward localization and the expansion of the national supply chain.

Human Capital and Technology Integration

The success of the localization effort is tied directly to developing the Saudi workforce and utilizing advanced technology:

• Human Capital: The strategy requires training and qualifying national engineers and technicians for work on production lines. Universities are actively participating by introducing specialized research programs in defense, aviation, and military Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Research and Innovation: The military industries rely on continuous innovation and moving beyond basic assembly to focus on local research and development (R&D). This necessitates substantial investments in research centers and universities.

The overarching vision is that the growing industrial capabilities will enable the Kingdom to become a major regional player and potentially an exporter of arms to neighboring markets, leveraging its geographical position as a major hub in the Middle East.

Saudi National Day 95: Vision, Unification, and Diplomacy

This extensive source is an excerpt from a daily newspaper, likely Al-Riyadh, celebrating the 95th Saudi National Day in September 2025 (4-5 Rabi’ Al-Akhir 1447 AH). The text is structured around several core themes: celebrating the unification of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz and highlighting the continuous vision and resolve of the current leadership, particularly focusing on Vision 2030 and its transformative impact on society, the economy, and governance. Key articles detail profound changes, such as the new regulatory framework for stopping annual rent increases in Riyadh for five years, major strides in combating corruption, and the central role of women and youth in the Vision’s success. Furthermore, the source emphasizes the Kingdom’s extensive foreign relations and diplomatic history—including deep ties with Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait—as well as its global role as a model for peace, humanitarian aid, and stability, evidenced by massive support for Yemen and involvement in regional mediation.

Saudi Arabia Vision 2030: Transformation and Achievement

Vision 2030 is the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is frequently highlighted as the blueprint for the remarkable achievements celebrated during the National Day.

Led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Vision 2030 aims to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future.

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Launched in 2016, Vision 2030 aims to decrease reliance on oil by diversifying the national economy and building a more varied and sustainable economic base.

The Vision is structured around three main pillars:

1. A Vibrant Society.
2. A Thriving Economy.
3. An Ambitious Nation.

It is referred to as a “national program of comprehensive work” and an “exceptional phase of transformation and growth”. The Vision serves as a roadmap for development, aiming to solidify the Kingdom’s position as an influential and open nation globally. The transformation is viewed as an “irreversible path”.

Key Achievements and Diversification

The successful implementation of Vision 2030 is evident through various quantitative and qualitative indicators, with some targets being surpassed ahead of the scheduled 2030 deadline.

1. Economic Diversification and Growth

• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: The Vision seeks to transform the economy from oil-dependent to diversified. The contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than half or approaching 56%.
• Total GDP: The national GDP has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals.
• Sectoral Growth: The economy is seeing quantitative growth across sectors like health, education, transport, communications, industry, electricity, water, and agriculture, alongside achievements in modern technologies, AI, and space.
• Financial Market Goals: A strategic goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030. Efforts include raising the ceiling on foreign investor ownership in listed companies to nearly 49%.

2. Investment and Strategic Projects

• Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF is crucial for diversification.
• Mega-Projects: The Vision is restructuring regions through colossal projects:
• NEOM: Described as a future city and a central symbol of the Vision.
• Qiddiya.
• The Red Sea Project.
• Al-Diriyah Gate Project: Aims to be a global cultural and tourism destination.
• Infrastructure: Extensive development has occurred in transportation, airports, and digital infrastructure to support the economic and civil transformation.

3. Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

The Vision places the citizen in the heart of development and as the cornerstone of the nation’s progress.

• Women’s Empowerment: The Vision has significantly empowered Saudi women, who are now viewed as essential partners in development. The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached 33.5%, surpassing the initial 2030 target of 30%.
• Unemployment: The Vision has aimed to reduce the unemployment rate.
• Homeownership: The Vision includes targets for housing development and improving the quality of life. The homeownership ratio is a key metric tracked within the Vision.
• Volunteering: The number of volunteers has increased, reaching 1.2 million.
• Government Services: The Vision contributes to easing government services and developing housing.

4. Technological and Industrial Advancements

• Digital Transformation: The Vision has accelerated digital services, with Saudi Arabia achieving the seventh rank globally in the e-Participation index, surpassing its 2030 goal of reaching the top ten.
• AI and Technology: The Kingdom is striving to become a global center for the digital economy and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Defense Localization: A core strategic goal is to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030. This enhances national sovereignty and strategic independence.
• Space Sector: Space projects are seen as national symbols that reflect the Kingdom’s ambition for future leadership, proving that the national identity is not limited to the past but extends to the present and future.

Vision and National Identity

Vision 2030 is deeply rooted in the country’s historical and cultural identity.

• Authenticity and Modernity: The transformation seeks to balance rapid modernity (Al-Hadatha) with the preservation of deep-rooted values and heritage (Al-Asala).
• National Symbols: The Vision reinforces national symbols, ensuring they serve as platforms for global ambition and innovation while remaining tied to the deep-seated character of the Saudi citizen. The Vision confirms that the development path must harmonize with the principles of cultural legitimacy and development.
• Global Recognition: The journey of Saudi development under this Vision is recognized globally as the fastest and largest of its kind in the 21st century.

Saudi Arabian Foreign Policy and Vision

The foreign relations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are characterized by a commitment to peace, stability, humanitarian aid, and adherence to established principles, with a strong focus on regional security, particularly in the Gulf, and the centrality of the Palestinian Cause. Saudi diplomacy is driven by political wisdom (الحكمة) and foresight, utilizing both official channels and “soft power” tools like economic aid and cultural outreach.

1. Foundational Principles and Global Role

Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy is rooted in the principles of Islam, which call for justice (العدل) and tolerance, and utilizes dialogue as a primary tool for resolving disputes.

• Global Influence: The era of King Salman bin Abdulaziz is marked by Saudi Arabia increasing its influence, elevating it to the ranks of globally influential states. The Kingdom is the “locomotive” that leads the countries of the region.
• Peace and Stability: The Kingdom is portrayed as a model for peace and humanity (أنموذج للسالم واإلنسانية). It consistently seeks to build bridges of cooperation and work to extinguish focal points of tension wherever they are found.
• Vision 2030 Context: Vision 2030 supports the Kingdom’s goal of becoming an influential and open nation globally. This vision confirms that peace is a cornerstone for achieving sustainable development and building a more prosperous future.

2. Relations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States (Deeper Strategic Unity)

Relations with GCC neighbors are deeply rooted in shared history, tribal ties, economic interests, and a unified destiny. The concept of “The One Gulf” (الخليج الواحد) was a living reality even before it became a political slogan.

A. Historical Foundations (The Era of King Abdulaziz)

King Abdulaziz established relations with neighboring shaykhdoms based on wisdom and balanced pragmatism.

• Integration over Control: King Abdulaziz did not seek to impose his influence but worked to establish strong, strategic ties that would ensure the region’s stability.
• Kuwait: Kuwait was a pivotal station in the founder’s journey, providing a haven of security, support, and refuge. The relationship has historically been one of deep brotherhood, cemented by shared origins, as many Kuwaiti families trace their roots to Najd. This unity was vividly demonstrated during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990, where King Fahd’s stance emphasized that “life and death are one among us,” treating Kuwait and Saudi Arabia as a single country.
• Bahrain: The relationship with Bahrain is rooted in ancient history and has been a model of cooperation and neighborhood based on wisdom. Coordination between the two countries is vital for coastal protection and navigation freedom. Saudi Arabia provided health support to Bahrain during early 20th-century epidemics.
• UAE (Abu Dhabi): The relationship with Abu Dhabi’s leader, Sheikh Zayed the First, was founded on a shared refusal to submit to foreign dominance and a commitment to independent decision-making, which later paved the way for the concept of Gulf solidarity (التضامن الخليجي).
• Qatar: Early ties were tribal and commercial, strengthened by correspondence between Sheikh Qasim bin Mohammed Al Thani and King Abdulaziz. Saudi Arabia and Qatar share similar political, economic, and cultural characteristics.
• Oman: Relations with the Sultanate of Oman are deeply rooted, founded on good neighborliness and historical partnership, extending to cooperation in defense.

B. Contemporary GCC Relations (Post-Al-Ula Agreement)

Saudi Arabia adopts a policy of peace and dialogue to resolve regional conflicts.

• Qatar Crisis Resolution: Saudi Arabia’s approach to the Gulf crisis demonstrated its commitment to security and stability in the Gulf. The Al-Ula Agreement (January 2021) practically embodied this strategy, restoring relations between Saudi Arabia and Qatar to their “natural course” and confirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional unity. The reconciliation reflected a philosophical belief that peace is achieved through mutual respect and dialogue, not isolation or force.

3. The Centrality of the Palestinian Cause

The Palestinian Cause remains at the forefront of Saudi foreign policy, with an unwavering position.

• Two-State Solution: The Kingdom’s consistent call is for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
• Diplomatic Pressure: Saudi Arabia uses its voice and influence in international forums to advocate for the rights of the Palestinian people. The Kingdom affirms that genuine peace is only achieved when the legitimate rights of the people are respected.

4. Diplomatic Tools: Commerce, Soft Power, and Aid

Saudi diplomacy extends beyond political negotiations, leveraging economic and cultural resources.

• Commercial Diplomacy: King Abdulaziz transformed commerce into an effective diplomatic platform. Najdi merchants were the first envoys of the nascent Saudi state, acting as political arms that introduced the state’s vision to foreign capitals (like Cairo) and helped build early international relations.
• Soft Power (القوة الناعمة): The Kingdom utilizes its soft power, including its profound cultural heritage and the Arabic language. The Arabic language is viewed as a key tool for cultural diplomacy (الدبلوماسية الثقافية) due to its religious and cultural significance and its status as one of the most widely used languages in the world. The presence of Saudi women in global forums and creative industries also acts as a “cultural bridge” to the world, reflecting the Kingdom’s image as a state of peace and development.
• Humanitarian and Aid Role: Saudi Arabia is recognized globally as a leading donor of humanitarian and developmental aid.
• King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief): Established in 2015, KSrelief is the Kingdom’s main humanitarian arm, supporting global peace-building by alleviating human suffering wherever it occurs.
• Yemen Support: The Kingdom prioritizes its bilateral relationship with Yemen, providing integrated financial and developmental support, including grants, loans, and oil derivatives, to stabilize the Yemeni currency, curb inflation, and support the Yemeni government’s economic reforms. The Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen (SPDRY) focuses on seven vital sectors, including health, education, and energy.

5. International Cooperation and Multilateralism

The Kingdom actively participates in shaping international policies and resolutions.

• Global Organizations: Saudi Arabia contributes to setting policies and resolutions within international bodies such as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the GCC, aiming to achieve peaceful conflict resolution and protect peoples’ rights.
• Counter-Terrorism: Saudi Arabia plays an active role in global efforts against extremism, utilizing its security system and technology to ensure stability.
• Aid as a Policy Tool: The Kingdom’s global humanitarian efforts reinforce its image as a proactive partner in global stability, demonstrating that its internal transformation is mirrored by an external commitment to humanitarian responsibility.

King Salman’s Era: Vision, Transformation, and Global Stature

The reign of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, is characterized in the sources as a glorious era (عهد مجيد) marked by wisdom, resolve (العزم والحزم), and monumental transformations that have elevated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the ranks of globally influential states.

The anniversary of King Salman’s accession (بيعة) is recognized as a profound occasion that renews loyalty and affirms the King’s established position as the leader of wisdom and the symbol of giving, who has engineered major transformations. The 11th anniversary of his accession confirms that the Kingdom is advancing under his wise leadership toward new horizons of security, stability, and increasing prosperity.

I. Internal Transformation and Vision 2030

King Salman’s rule is fundamentally defined by the launch and implementation of Vision 2030, which represents an “exceptional phase of transformation and growth”.

• Architect of Vision 2030: King Salman, alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, leads this visionary project, which aims to diversify the economy and build a prosperous future. The progress made under this Vision is recognized globally as the fastest and largest of its kind in the 21st century.
• National Unity and Stability: His rule is characterized by a commitment to national unity and stability. The celebration of his accession emphasizes the deep-rooted relationship of trust and loyalty between the people and their leadership.
• Comprehensive Development: Achievements span numerous sectors, including economic, social, health, education, transport, communications, industry, electricity, water, and agriculture. His era has established the Kingdom as a global model for comprehensive development (التنمية الشاملة).
• Judicial and Anti-Corruption Efforts: King Salman has stressed the importance of the judiciary and the national mission to uproot corruption (اجتثاث الفساد) at all levels to protect national gains and public funds, demanding transparency in all investigations.
• Attention to Riyadh: Since his time as the Emir of the Riyadh region, King Salman has been deeply involved in the development of the capital, treating it like his own home. He oversaw its growth into one of the largest and most beautiful capitals in the region, ensuring it remained true to its history and authenticity while embracing global events.

II. Specific Internal Policy Decisions

The King’s rule includes specific, impactful decisions that reflect his commitment to social justice and the economy:

• Real Estate Market Regulation: Historical royal decrees were issued to regulate the relationship between tenants and landlords. This move, which includes halting the annual increase in rent for residential and commercial properties in the urban area of Riyadh for five years starting September 25, 2025, reflects the leadership’s focus on social justice, protecting rights, enhancing trust, and ensuring stability in the real estate market.
• Empowerment of Women: Under King Salman’s rule, the Saudi woman has received significant attention and care, becoming an effective partner in the national development process. Women now hold influential positions in various national posts and enjoy a greater number of opportunities in government jobs across different ranks.

III. Foreign Policy and Global Stature

King Salman’s leadership has orchestrated a “qualitative leap” (نقلة نوعية) in foreign policy and its institutions, enhancing the Kingdom’s international standing.

• Global Influence: The Kingdom’s voice has been raised with wisdom and balance (حكمة واتزان) on the international stage, making it a prominent force in addressing global issues of justice and truth, most notably the Palestinian Cause.
• Regional Leadership: Saudi Arabia is viewed as the “locomotive” (القاطرة) leading the countries of the region. King Salman’s foresight ensures that the Kingdom’s stability extends beyond its borders, emphasizing that its unity with its Gulf neighbors is a historical and strategic necessity.
• Humanitarian Role: King Salman is known for his extensive charitable and humanitarian efforts. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), founded in 2015, serves as the primary institutional vehicle for providing humanitarian and relief assistance globally. The Kingdom has a long-standing position as a leading global donor of humanitarian aid.

IV. Commitment to the Future

The sources assert that King Salman’s ambition is limitless and constantly evolving. The progress made is a reflection of his ability to synthesize rapid change with tradition:

• Balancing Modernity and Authenticity: The King’s approach ensures that modernization projects and development (like the transformation of Riyadh) maintain faithfulness to the memory of the city, balancing authenticity (الأصالة) with modern advancement.
• Irreversible Path: The accomplishments of this era serve as a pillar for the continuity of the state, confirming that the current path of development is an “irreversible path”.

Saudi National Identity: Tradition, Vision, and Soft Power

The concept of “National Identity Day” is central to the Saudi national narrative, although the sources primarily refer to the celebration of the Kingdom’s history and values in the context of the annual National Day (اليوم الوطني), observed on September 23rd. This observance is treated as much more than a historical commemoration; it is a continuous process of shaping, defining, and projecting the national identity across time, from its historical roots to the ambitious future outlined in Vision 2030.

I. The Evolution of National Symbols and Identity

National identity is not viewed as a static entity, but as a “mirror that reflects the circumstances of every age” and an essential component of national consciousness.

1. Traditional Symbols (Al-Asala)

Traditional symbols anchor the modern identity in the Kingdom’s deep history and founding values.

• The Green Flag and Shahada: Since the establishment of the First Saudi State in 1727 CE (1139 AH), the green banner bearing the Shahada (Declaration of Monotheism) has served as a unifying symbol, transcending a mere physical marker to become a spiritual and political declaration.
• The Sword: The sword in the national emblem is not solely an instrument of war, but a symbol of power constrained by justice (القوة المنضبطة بالعدل). This reflects the founding philosophy that the state was established not to impose dominance, but to establish a just society that applies Sharia law and protects its community. This dual concept—power with justice—is essential to the philosophical foundation of the state.
• The Palm Tree: The palm tree, coupled with the sword, symbolizes the philosophy of the state: “protected prosperity and justice backed by power” (رخاء محمّي بالقوة وعدل).

2. Modern and Future Symbols (Al-Hadatha)

In the modern era, particularly under Vision 2030, identity has expanded to include contemporary aspirations, science, and global ambition.

• Vision 2030 and Mega-Projects: Strategic projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project have become modern national symbols. They embody the national ambition and reflect a new stage of identity that embraces modernity while preserving authenticity.
• Space and AI: Space projects, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and advanced technology are seen as national symbols for future generations. When the Kingdom raises its flag in space or competes in AI, it conveys a message that Saudi Arabia is not just an oil state but one with scientific and civilizational ambitions.
• New Symbols as Continuation: These modern symbols are not intended to replace the traditional ones but serve as a natural extension (امتداد طبيعي), carrying the spirit of the past’s founding principles—ambition, unity, and leadership—into the future.

II. Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power

National identity is actively projected globally through soft power (القوة الناعمة) and cultural initiatives, positioning the Kingdom as a global, open nation.

• The Role of Language (Arabic): The Arabic language is regarded as a key tool for cultural diplomacy (الدبلوماسية الثقافية). Its historical link to the founding of the state and its central role in Islamic faith make it an inherent part of the Saudi identity, reinforcing the connection between the people and their land. Initiatives like the development of the Arabic generative AI model, HUMAIN (‘Ilm), ensure the language remains foundational in the digital age.
• Empowerment of Women: The Saudi woman has become a true national icon (أيقونة وطنية) and a bridge for cultural communication with the world. Her prominence in diverse fields—from security to creative industries and leadership positions—reflects the nation’s new image that balances authenticity with global openness.
• Cultural Infrastructure: Projects like the Al-Diriyah Gate Project aim to revive historical sites as global cultural and tourism destinations, utilizing heritage to reinforce national consciousness and resilience.

III. The Role of Education and Media

The reinforcement of national identity is a continuous, collective effort involving educational institutions and media channels.

• Education’s Role: Education is fundamental in transferring national symbols and values across generations. Students learn the history of the founding and the meaning of the national anthem and flag, transforming these symbols from mere information into a visceral, emotional experience (تجربة وجدانية).
• Media and Communication: Official and media discourse plays a key role in shaping collective memory and promoting the national narrative, especially concerning Vision 2030. The media’s commitment is to project a positive image of the Kingdom’s achievements.
• Avoiding Superficiality (Surface Symbolism): Experts warn that national symbols should not be relegated to mere “surface symbolism” (سطحية الرمز), which happens when they are used only in a celebratory or formal context without genuine emotional or political connection to the nation’s core values or policies. The solution lies in integrating these symbols intelligently into daily life, education, and social practices.

In essence, National Identity Day, manifested through the annual National Day celebration, is a continuous project to unify the past’s deep roots (Asala) with the future’s global ambition (Hadatha), ensuring that the national story remains a living project that renews with every generation.

Riyadh Rent Regulations and Vision 2030 Real Estate Decrees

The Real Estate Regulations discussed in the sources pertain to a major set of royal decrees issued during the era of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, reflecting the leadership’s commitment to social justice, economic stability, and fostering a fair environment for investment within the context of Vision 2030.

These historical decisions were specifically aimed at regulating the relationship between the landlord (المؤجر) and the tenant (المستأجر), with particular measures implemented in the city of Riyadh.

Key Royal Directives and Principles

The recent royal decrees were intended to establish clear, systematic legal provisions for the lease relationship, emphasizing several core principles:

• Social Justice and Protection of Rights: The regulations reflect the leadership’s concern for social justice (العدالة الاجتماعية) and the protection of rights.
• Enhancing Trust and Transparency: The decisions aim to reinforce trust (الثقة) and transparency (الشفافية) within the real estate market.
• Creating an Attractive Investment Environment: By promoting stability and justice, the goal is to create a more stable (استقرار) and attractive investment environment (بيئة استثمارية جاذبة). The principle of justice is established as a “firm foundation in transactions”.

Specific Regulations in Riyadh (Royal Decree)

The most notable recent directive focuses on regulating rents, especially in the capital, Riyadh:

1. Freezing Rent Increases in Riyadh

The decree mandates the freezing of the total rental value for residential and commercial real estate contracts within the urban area of the city of Riyadh, effective immediately.

• Duration: This freeze is imposed for a period of five years.
• Implementation: The total rental value is fixed based on the price of the last executed lease contract, according to the “Ejar” electronic network.
• New Contracts: For properties (residential and commercial) that have not been previously leased, the total rental value is determined by mutual agreement between the landlord and the tenant.

2. Regulation of Contract Renewal

The regulations govern automatic renewal and provide protections against arbitrary termination for tenants in Riyadh’s urban zone:

• Automatic Renewal: A lease contract is considered automatically renewed (مجددًا تلقائيًا) in all cities of the Kingdom unless one party notifies the other of non-renewal at least 60 days before the contract’s expiry date.
• Tenant Protection (Riyadh): For residential properties located within the urban area of Riyadh, the landlord is generally prohibited from refusing to renew the contract if the tenant desires renewal.
• Exceptions to Renewal Prohibition: The landlord can only refuse renewal and compel the tenant to vacate the property in three specific situations:

1. The tenant defaults on payment.
2. The presence of structural defects in the property, confirmed by an authorized technical report from the competent government authority, that affect the safety of the building and its residents.
3. The landlord’s desire to use the residential unit for personal use or for the use of a first-degree relative.

3. Documentation and Oversight

To ensure compliance and transparency, specific documentation procedures are required:

• Mandatory Registration: All lease contracts must be documented in the “Ejar” electronic network.
• Filing a Complaint: Both the landlord and the tenant have the right to file a request to register the contract in the “Ejar” network. The tenant has the right to object to the contract data before the General Real Estate Authority (الهيئة العامة للعقار) within 60 days of being notified of the registration.
• Oversight: These new rules necessitate a strong regulatory role from the government to ensure justice and fair practice in the real estate market.

Institutional Role

The General Real Estate Authority (GAMI) plays a crucial role in implementing these new regulations. GAMI is tasked with issuing clarifications and awareness materials regarding the systemic mechanisms and controls related to these decisions to ensure effective legal application and safeguard the rights of all parties.

Saudi Vision 2030: Economy, Diplomacy, and Culture

This extensive source provides a multifaceted snapshot of contemporary Saudi Arabia, centered on ambitious economic and social transformation under the banner of Vision 2030, juxtaposed with the nation’s prominent regional and international roles. Key themes include significant regulatory changes in the real estate sector, exemplified by the “Ejar” network to stabilize the rental market and combat inflation, signaling a strategic shift toward economic sustainability rather than speculation. Furthermore, the text details Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in global energy stability through the OPEC+ alliance and its successful diversification efforts, as evidenced by a jump in non-oil revenues; internationally, the document features strong condemnation of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and outlines a new comprehensive defense and economic partnership with Pakistan. Finally, a surge in national pride and cultural development is highlighted through celebrations of the 95th National Day and massive investment in the entertainment and tourism sectors, reinforcing the Kingdom’s emerging status as a global hub.

Saudi Real Estate Transformation and Rent Regulation

The real estate market in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently undergoing a structural transformation, primarily driven by Vision 2030 objectives and recent strategic royal directives aimed at achieving stability, social justice, and increased investment attractiveness.

The key focus areas of this transformation revolve around regulating the lease market, addressing inflation caused by housing costs, and encouraging long-term, sustainable investment.

1. Strategic Royal Directives and Market Regulation

The most significant recent development is the issuance of systemic legal provisions to regulate the relationship between the landlord and the tenant. These directives are viewed as an unprecedented step taken by the leadership, symbolized by the direction of the Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

A. Stopping Annual Rent Increases (Riyadh) The cornerstone of the recent regulatory changes is the royal decree imposing a five-year freeze on the total annual rental value for both residential and commercial real estate contracts within the urban area of Riyadh.

• Basis of Freeze: The fixed rental value is based on the price of the last executed lease contract, as recorded on the “Ejar” electronic network.
• Purpose: This strategic step is intended to curb inflation (التضخم) where housing costs (specifically actual rents) were identified as the primary driver. The freeze aims to protect families from increasing living pressures and establish a system founded on greater justice and sustainability.

B. Tenant Protection and Renewal The regulations enforce greater security and stability for tenants:

• Automatic Renewal: Lease contracts are deemed automatically renewed across all cities unless one party provides notification of non-renewal at least 60 days before expiry.
• Riyadh Urban Zone: In Riyadh’s urban area, the landlord is generally prohibited from refusing contract renewal if the tenant wishes to renew.
• Exceptions: Renewal can only be refused if the tenant defaults on payment, if there are structural defects verified by authorities, or if the landlord or a first-degree relative wishes to use the unit for personal use.

C. Impact on Small and Medium Projects (SMEs) The decision to fix rents is a major supportive and influential step for the investment climate.

• The SME sector was among the groups suffering most from unexpected rent hikes, which often consumed all profits and led some businesses to closure.
• The five-year ceiling provides a fixed temporal limit that allows business owners to establish accurate financial plans and enhances the chances of sustainability and success, encouraging new entrepreneurs to enter the market with confidence.

2. Market Dynamics and Economic Diversification

The real estate market is closely tied to the overarching goals of Vision 2030, particularly concerning quality of life and economic growth.

• Shifting Investment Focus: The regulations are designed to redirect the investor focus away from short-term speculation (المضاربة), characterized by rapid, consecutive rent increases for quick returns, towards long-term, sustainable, and institutional investment.
• Quality and Management: Investors are encouraged to focus on maximizing value through improving the quality of construction, management, and services, promoting genuine competition based on quality rather than arbitrary price hikes.
• Homeownership Target: The regulation supports the Vision 2030 goal of increasing homeownership among citizens. The stability provided by regulated rental prices reduces inflationary pressures, making housing more generally accessible.

3. Institutional Role and Transparency

Enhancing transparency and reducing disputes are key aims of the regulatory efforts.

• Ejar Platform: The “Ejar” electronic network is mandatory for documenting all lease contracts. This platform is crucial for the implementation of the new regulations, serving as an anti-evasion mechanism and an official tool for regulation and oversight.
• Reducing Disputes: The clear new rules are expected to significantly reduce the number of judicial disputes and accelerate the resolution of existing ones, which previously faced long delays due to ambiguous contracts.
• Attracting Foreign Investment: The resulting market stability, combined with enhanced governance and transparency, is anticipated to raise the investment attractiveness level and increase the confidence of local and foreign investors in the Saudi real estate sector.

4. Inflationary Context (August 2025 Data)

The recent regulations are directly linked to the challenge of inflation:

• Inflation Driver: Official statistics from August 2025 showed that overall inflation was primarily driven by specific items, most prominently Housing and Rents.
• Rent Contribution: Actual rents for housing surged by 7.6% annually, making them the single largest factor (العامل الأول) pushing up the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
• Policy Response: The government views the regulation of the real estate market, alongside housing programs and easy financing initiatives, as part of a comprehensive package to manage these inflationary pressures and ensure the Saudi economy remains on a balanced path toward prosperity.

Saudi Arabia Vision 2030: Strategy and Achievements

Vision 2030 is the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE], and it is frequently highlighted as the blueprint for the remarkable achievements celebrated during the National Day [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE].

The Vision is led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]. It aims to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE].

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Launched in 2016, Vision 2030 aims to decrease reliance on oil by diversifying the national economy and building a more varied, sustainable, and globally competitive economic base [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

The Vision is structured around three main pillars [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]:

1. A Vibrant Society [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
2. A Thriving Economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
3. An Ambitious Nation [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

The Vision is referred to as a “national program of comprehensive work” and an “exceptional phase of transformation and growth” [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]. It is considered a roadmap for development and is viewed as an “irreversible path” [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Economic Diversification].

Key Achievements and Economic Diversification

Vision 2030 has driven significant transformations, often resulting in surpassing targets ahead of schedule [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]. The successful implementation is attributed to the efficiency of economic policies [FOURTH RESPONSE].

• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: For the first time in the Kingdom’s history, the contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than half [SIXTH RESPONSE] or approaching 56% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, 165].
• Total GDP: The national GDP has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals (SAR) [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE].
• Financial Market Goals: A strategic goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification]. Efforts to raise the ceiling on foreign investor ownership in listed companies (currently nearly 49%) are underway to attract investments and enhance competitiveness [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification, 130, 131].
• Non-Oil Revenue Growth: Non-oil revenues have shown robust growth, confirming the creation of a more balanced and stable economy [FOURTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification].

Investment and Strategic Projects

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a core driver of economic diversification [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE]. The Vision is restructuring regions through colossal strategic projects that embody a development model balancing authenticity (Al-Asala) with modernity (Al-Hadatha) [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Media and Culture]:

• Future Cities: Projects include NEOM (viewed as a symbol of the Vision and a center for technology), Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
• Historical Development: The Al-Diriyah Gate Project aims to revive the historical capital as a global cultural and tourism destination [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Media and Culture].

Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

Vision 2030 places the citizen in the heart of development and as the cornerstone of the nation’s progress [FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE].

• Women’s Empowerment: The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached 35.5% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE] or more than 36%, significantly exceeding the initial 2030 target of 30% [THIRD RESPONSE, 50].
• Unemployment: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7% [THIRD RESPONSE], reaching 6.3%, surpassing the 2030 target [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Homeownership: Homeownership among Saudi families reached 65.4% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], slightly exceeding the 65% target set for 2025 [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Volunteering: The number of volunteers has reached 1.2 million [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE].

Technological and Industrial Advancements

The Vision aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for the digital economy and innovation [FOURTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

• AI Leadership: The Kingdom ranks third globally in the growth of AI jobs [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Defense Localization: A core strategic goal is to localize more than 50% of the military spending by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Military Industries]. The localization rate has surged to over 19% [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Digital Transformation: The Kingdom achieved the seventh rank globally in the e-Participation index, surpassing its 2030 goal of reaching the top ten [EIGHTH RESPONSE].
• Tourism: The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], achieving the 2030 target years ahead of schedule [SIXTH RESPONSE].

The Vision’s Integration of Identity

Vision 2030 integrates the country’s deep historical legacy and values with its future ambitions [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE].

• Historical Consciousness: The Vision uses history as a source of inspiration and guidance, reinforcing national identity [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE].
• Citizen Commitment: The Vision asserts that the citizen is the primary engine for achieving Vision 2030, reinforcing the nation’s determination to continue the transformation process [FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE].

Saudi Arabia’s Leadership in Global Oil Market Stability

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia plays a pivotal, primary, and continuous leadership role in managing the global oil market to ensure stability, supply security, and prosperity for the global economy. This commitment is maintained even amidst global economic challenges and the transition to cleaner energy systems.

Core Role in Maintaining Stability

The primary mechanism Saudi Arabia employs for global oil stability is its leadership within the OPEC+ alliance.

• OPEC+ Leadership: The Kingdom is recognized globally for its successful, strategic leadership and organization of the OPEC+ alliance. This coalition, comprising OPEC members and other major oil-producing countries (totaling around 23 nations), collectively accounts for nearly half of global oil production.
• Market Balance: Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic and policy efforts focus on preserving the balance and stability of global oil markets. Its decisions, often reached through monthly meetings of the OPEC+ alliance, aim to ensure a stable equilibrium between supply and demand.
• Security of Supply: The Kingdom’s role is crucial for ensuring the safe and reliable supply of energy to the world. Saudi Arabia continues to pump approximately 12 million barrels per day into the global market, fulfilling its commitments.

Addressing Challenges and Global Crises

Saudi policies have been acknowledged by the international community for their success in managing volatility and ensuring the resilience of the energy market.

• Geopolitical Conflicts: Saudi Arabia, along with its partners in OPEC+, has dedicated efforts to mitigate the consequences of severe global challenges, such as the fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war, which caused oil price volatility and supply chain disruptions.
• Past Crises (e.g., COVID-19): The Kingdom successfully intervened during the COVID-19 pandemic when the oil industry faced a potential catastrophic collapse, preventing global energy markets from imploding. Global leaders, including the US and Russia, acknowledged that without Riyadh’s intervention, there would have been no solution to restore market stability.
• Technological Advancement: The Kingdom is leading efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of hydrocarbons by emphasizing innovative technology as key to the future of oil and gas production and permanence.

Integrating Stability with Climate Goals

Saudi Arabia’s strategy is unique in that it integrates its responsibility for market stability with its commitment to climate action, primarily through the Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) framework.

• CCE Framework: The CCE, which was adopted by the G20 group of nations during Saudi Arabia’s presidency, provides a framework to manage emissions while maintaining economic stability. This approach ensures that the Kingdom can continue its foundational role in energy stability while contributing to the urgent goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Low-Carbon Oil: Saudi Arabia is noted for producing and exporting crude oil with the lowest carbon intensity globally, utilizing the latest technological systems.
• Green Energy Transition: The Kingdom is aggressively investing in and transitioning toward cleaner energy sources, including green hydrogen and renewables. This dual approach aims to eventually generate half of its domestic energy needs from renewables by 2030, while simultaneously maintaining its pivotal role in the oil market.

Specific Supply-Side Events Affecting Stability

Recent supply-side events underscore the market’s sensitivity to disruptions and the critical role of stable supply:

• Russian Supply Issues: Oil prices recently surged, registering weekly gains exceeding 5%, due to persistent concerns over Russian oil supply following Ukrainian drone attacks on infrastructure. Russia has also imposed a partial ban on diesel exports and extended a ban on gasoline exports due to reduced refining capacity. This geopolitical tension increases the likelihood of further sanctions on Russian oil.
• Iraqi Kurdistan Exports: The resumption of crude oil exports from Iraqi Kurdistan via a pipeline to the Turkish port of Ceyhan, after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, is expected to eventually bring up to 230,000 barrels per day back to global markets. This resumption was driven partly by US pressure, as it occurred during a period when OPEC+ was attempting to increase output.

In summary, global oil stability is strongly influenced by the cohesive policies and collective action taken by OPEC+ under the leadership of Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s strategic management is credited with navigating severe geopolitical and economic shocks, and its long-term vision aims to anchor market stability while driving a global energy transition through technological innovation.

Israeli Aggression: Gaza Genocide and West Bank Violence

The discussion of “Israeli aggression” in the sources centers on the ongoing catastrophic military campaign in the Gaza Strip and the wider occupied territories, characterized by systematic violence, humanitarian crises, and international condemnation.

The War in Gaza: Genocide and Humanitarian Catastrophe

The Israeli operation in the Gaza Strip is widely described by Palestinian and international voices in the sources as a “war of genocide/extermination” (حرب الإبادة الجماعية) [NEW SOURCE, 155]. This aggression involves continuous air and artillery raids across the Strip [NEW SOURCE, 154].

Key Aspects of the Aggression in Gaza:

• Systematic Killing and Displacement: The aggression has been continuous for two years [NEW SOURCE, 155]. Israel is accused of engaging in “killing and systematic starvation” (القتل الممنهج والتجويع), and forced displacement (التهجير القسري) [NEW SOURCE, 151, 155, 160].
• Mass Casualties: The aggression has resulted in a staggering number of casualties [Discussion of Gaza Conflict]:
• The number of martyrs reached 65,344 [Discussion of Gaza Conflict].
• The number of injured surpassed 166,795 [Discussion of Gaza Conflict].
• Over 9,000 people are reported missing [Discussion of Gaza Conflict].
• Targeting Civilians and Infrastructure: The attacks have targeted populated homes and buildings [NEW SOURCE, 154, 155, 157, 158]. Reports include Israeli forces destroying residential buildings using explosive unmanned aerial vehicles [NEW SOURCE, 154], and demolishing up to 88% of the vital infrastructure of Gaza [NEW SOURCE, 162].
• Famine and Siege: Gaza City faces a severe humanitarian disaster amid destruction and famine [Discussion of Gaza Conflict, NEW SOURCE, 155]. Dozens of children have died specifically due to famine and malnutrition [Discussion of Gaza Conflict]. The Israeli siege remains stringent, affecting more than two million Palestinians [Discussion of Gaza Conflict].
• Humanitarian Crisis: The healthcare sector is in critical condition, with hospitals facing closure due to fuel depletion [Discussion of Gaza Conflict]. The worsening situation, including the continuous Israeli attack, is leading to potential collective punishment [Discussion of Two-State Solution].

Specific Incidents of Aggression

The sources detail specific examples illustrating the nature of the aggression:

• Refugee Camp Attacks: Israeli aggression continued in the Nuseirat Camp, where a house belonging to the Al-Jamal family was struck, leading to the martyrdom of 9 citizens, including children and women [NEW SOURCE, 156].
• The Al-Shati Camp Massacre: In Al-Shati Camp, six members of the Baker family were martyred following a direct strike on their home. This attack reportedly came after the family refused to abide by specific conditions set by the occupation forces for remaining in the area [NEW SOURCE, 156, 157].
• Military Aggression Against Aid: Israel began implementing a new aid distribution plan called the “Humanitarian Relief Organization for Gaza,” which has been transformed into “death traps” (مصائد موت) [NEW SOURCE, 155, 156].

Aggression in the West Bank and East Jerusalem

Israeli aggression is not confined to Gaza but also affects the West Bank (including East Jerusalem) through military incursions, demolitions, and settler activities [NEW SOURCE, 166, 172].

• Tulkarm and Jenin: Israeli forces continue daily aggression, including raids, arrests, and the demolition of infrastructure in the refugee camps of Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams [NEW SOURCE, 166, 172, 173]. This conflict has resulted in the displacement of thousands of families and severe damage to housing units [NEW SOURCE, 168].
• Jerusalem Home Demolition: Israeli forces detonated the home of martyr Muthana Amro in the town of Al-Qubayba near Jerusalem [NEW SOURCE, 176, 177].
• Al-Aqsa Mosque: Extremist groups promoting the “alleged Temple” continue to call for mass intrusions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, performing Talmudic rituals amid heavy military protection. These actions aim to establish new facts on the ground and work toward the temporal division of the holy site [NEW SOURCE, 173, 174].

International Condemnation and Calls for Action

Saudi Arabia and the international community have condemned the aggression and called for immediate intervention:

• “Wild Practices” and Impunity: The Saudi Foreign Minister asserted that the unparalleled human suffering in Gaza and the crisis facing the Palestinian people are due to “wild practices” (الممارسات الوحشية) carried out by the occupation authorities “without deterrent” [NEW SOURCE, 150, 151, 170].
• Violation of International Law: The actions in Gaza are viewed as violating the principles of international law, crimes against humanity, and acts of genocide [NEW SOURCE, 150, 151, 159].
• International Failure: The international community’s failure to take decisive measures to halt the Israeli attacks and violations contributes to destabilizing regional and global security, and fuels dangerous repercussions [NEW SOURCE, 151].
• Demands: Saudi Arabia advocates for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages and prisoners, and the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid [Discussion of Gaza Conflict, NEW SOURCE, 151].
• The Two-State Solution: The escalation reinforces the view that the Two-State Solution remains the only path to a just and lasting peace, contrasting with the continuing cycle of violence caused by the occupation [Discussion of Two-State Solution, Discussion of Palestine Cause].

Saudi Entertainment Transformation and Vision 2030

The Saudi entertainment sector is experiencing a significant and rapid transformation, driven by the Quality of Life Program under Vision 2030 [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030]. This transformation aims to make the Kingdom a global cultural and tourism destination [Discussion of Media and Culture], enhancing the quality of life for citizens and residents [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].

1. Vision 2030 and Quality of Life

Vision 2030 specifically includes the Quality of Life Program (launched in 2018), which aims to provide comprehensive options in entertainment, sports, culture, and tourism [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

• Growth and Investment: The entertainment industry is intended to be self-sufficient and fully managed by the private sector in the future [NEW SOURCE, 219]. Its annual profits are reaching up to 30% [NEW SOURCE, 219].
• Market Size: The Saudi entertainment sector is projected to reach a size of 17 billion and 360 million Riyals, or about $4.63 billion, by 2030 [NEW SOURCE, 219].
• Governmental Support: In its early stages, the government provided a necessary “push” (دفعة) to the sector to accelerate its growth and reach a level comparable to its counterparts in developed nations [NEW SOURCE, 219]. This rapid growth saw the number of entertainment companies rise from five to over 4,000 in just a few years [NEW SOURCE, 219].

2. Mega-Projects and Entertainment Infrastructure

Mega-projects are central to providing the infrastructure needed for a thriving entertainment sector.

• Qiddiya: Projects like Qiddiya are foundational elements of this strategy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, NEW SOURCE, 220].
• NEOM and Diriyah: The creation of smart cities like NEOM and the revitalization of historical areas like Al-Diriyah Gate (which balances authenticity with modernity) demonstrate the shift toward a comprehensive digital and experiential life [Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030, SIXTH RESPONSE].
• Urban and Cultural Hubs: The “Culture Square” (ميدان الثقافة) project in Jeddah, for instance, includes the Center for Performing Arts and the Museum of Digital Arts (TeamLab Borderless), designed to be a prominent cultural and tourism attraction that integrates heritage with modern architectural elements [NEW SOURCE, 198, 200, 201].

3. Events, Festivities, and Live Entertainment

National events and performances are highly prioritized, reflecting significant government support and public enthusiasm.

• National Day Celebrations: Major cultural events, such as the 95th National Day celebrations, feature artistic and entertainment programs, including the “Fanoon Jeddah” concert, which included artists like Fouad Abdulwahed and Umaima Talib, performed under the slogan “Our Pride is in Our Nature” [Discussion of National Day, Discussion of National Day Celebration].
• Concerts and Tours: The General Entertainment Authority supports major artistic events. For example, the sources mention large-scale concerts organized by Rotana Group in Kuwait, featuring Saudi artist Abdul Majeed Abdullah, whose Gulf tour for 2025/2026 was planned to be a significant entertainment event [NEW SOURCE, 209, 210]. The success of these events, like his Kuwait concerts, is attributed to the deep connection between the artist and his audience, which Rotana’s CEO described as achieving a high level of artistic taste [NEW SOURCE, 210, 211].
• Music and Arts: The sources mention a significant concert held in Saudi Arabia featuring the artist Ahlam, whose performance under the “Our Pride is in Our Nature” theme gathered a huge audience, demonstrating the effectiveness of high-profile entertainment in reaching the public [NEW SOURCE, 214].

4. Cinematic and Creative Industries

The creative industry, particularly cinema, is a rapidly expanding sector of the entertainment landscape [Discussion of Media and Culture].

• Film Industry Growth: The cinematic sector is expanding, with projections for the market size to exceed $1.2 billion by 2033 [Discussion of Media and Culture].
• Film Festivals: Initiatives like the Red Sea International Film Festival and specialized challenges launched by the Red Sea Foundation are vital for building an integrated cinematic ecosystem and empowering young Saudi talent [Discussion of Media and Culture].
• Dramatic Production: The sources highlight Saudi dramatic works, such as the series “The Female Lawyer” (المحامية), which centers on the life of a female lawyer dealing with personal, civil, criminal, and commercial cases, reflecting a focus on contemporary social narratives and the growing role of women in society [NEW SOURCE, 212, 213].
• National Drama and Identity: Beyond mere entertainment, dramatic production (like film and television) is recognized for its function as “soft power” [NEW SOURCE, 223]. It shapes collective memory, reinforces national identity and values (such as unity and sacrifice), and acts as a “cultural bridge” to the world, often incorporating national narratives without resorting to mere superficial symbolism [Discussion of Media and Culture, Discussion of National Identity Day, NEW SOURCE, 226].

5. Challenges and Institutional Development

While experiencing rapid growth, the sector still faces challenges relative to global standards:

• Facility Limitations: The sources note that despite the ideal vision for the industry, the sector remains relatively delayed compared to global benchmarks, and that the availability of recreational facilities remains limited, with only five recreational venues per million citizens [NEW SOURCE, 218].
• Institutional Role: The General Real Estate Authority (in coordination with other bodies) contributes to the Quality of Life Program through regulating housing and rent stability, which directly impacts the ability of citizens to enjoy a high quality of life, including accessing entertainment options [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, NEW SOURCE, 76].

Saudi Arabian National Developments and Vision 2030

This extensive source is a compilation of excerpts from a newspaper or similar publication, presenting a wide array of national news and developments across Saudi Arabia. The text is structured around several key domains, including economic and real estate regulations, exemplified by the new rules for rental contracts via the “Ejar” platform; major development and infrastructure projects, with a focus on environmental, water, and agricultural initiatives costing billions of riyals; and military and political affairs, covering topics such as the ongoing conflict in Gaza and security arrangements in the Kingdom. Furthermore, the source highlights cultural and social themes, detailing events like the National Day celebrations, the launch of a cybersecurity competition, and the promotion of a global literature collection, all while consistently linking these activities to the overarching objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabian Lease Reforms and Riyadh Rent Freeze

The Lease and Rent Rules in Saudi Arabia have recently undergone significant regulatory adjustments, primarily stemming from royal directives aimed at enhancing social justice, controlling inflation, and creating a more transparent and stable environment for both tenants and investors within the real estate market [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, 127, 128]. These changes are particularly focused on the urban area of Riyadh.

Core Regulatory Principles

The primary intent of the recent royal directives is to establish clear legal provisions for the lease relationship, emphasizing:

• Social Justice and Protection of Rights: The regulations reflect the leadership’s concern for providing social justice (العدالة الاجتماعية) and safeguarding the rights of both parties [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].
• Trust and Transparency: The measures are designed to reinforce trust (الثقة) and transparency (الشفافية) within the real estate market [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, 128, 140].
• Investment Stability: By promoting a stable and fair environment, the rules aim to create a more attractive investment environment (بيئة استثمارية جاذبة) [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].

Key Rules Implemented in Riyadh

The most notable and impactful regulatory change is the introduction of a rent increase ceiling specifically for the capital, Riyadh.

1. Five-Year Rent Freeze in Riyadh

A royal decree mandates the freezing of the total annual rental value for residential and commercial real estate contracts within the urban area of Riyadh.

• Duration: This freeze is implemented for a period of five years.
• Basis of Fixed Rent: The total rental value is fixed based on the price of the last executed lease contract, as recorded on the mandatory “Ejar” electronic network.
• Application: This freeze is comprehensive, applying to both existing and new contracts.
• Pricing New Units: For completely new units that have not been leased before, the price is determined by mutual agreement between the landlord and the tenant. However, this agreement is practically constrained by the new regulated environment, as the five-year freeze eliminates the landlord’s reliance on “rapid price increases” (الرفع السريع) in subsequent years. This forces initial pricing to be more competitive and aligned with the actual market level.

2. Automatic Renewal and Tenant Protection

The rules introduce specific mechanisms for contract renewal across the Kingdom, with enhanced protection for Riyadh tenants [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations]:

• General Automatic Renewal: A lease contract is considered automatically renewed (مجددًا تلقائيًا) in all cities unless one party notifies the other of non-renewal at least 60 days before the contract’s expiry date.
• Prohibition on Refusal (Riyadh): For residential properties in Riyadh’s urban zone, the landlord is generally prohibited from refusing to renew the contract if the tenant wishes to renew [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].
• Exceptions to Refusal: A landlord may compel the tenant to vacate only in three specific situations [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations]:

1. The tenant defaults on payment [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].
2. The presence of structural defects confirmed by an authorized technical report [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].
3. The landlord’s desire to use the unit for personal use or for the use of a first-degree relative [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].

Institutional Oversight and Transparency

The regulations mandate the use of centralized systems and impose penalties to ensure compliance [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, 140].

• Mandatory Ejar Network: All lease contracts must be documented in the “Ejar” electronic network. This mandatory documentation is considered an essential tool for regulation and oversight [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations].
• Penalties for Violations: Financial penalties are prescribed for violations. Violators may face a fine equivalent to up to 12 months’ rent, in addition to correcting the violation and compensating the affected party.

Market Impact and Economic Objectives

The new rules are a direct policy response to control inflation and shift the real estate market toward long-term institutional investment [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Real estate market].

• Curbing Inflation: The primary economic goal is to curb rent inflation (تضخم الإيجارات), which was identified as the largest driver of the overall Consumer Price Index (CPI) [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Real estate market].
• Supporting SMEs: The freeze supports the SME (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) sector, which previously suffered when unexpected rent hikes consumed profits [Discussion of Real estate market].
• Discouraging Speculation: By capping increases for five years, the decision discourages short-term speculation (المضاربة) and pressures investors to focus on maximizing value through quality of construction, management, and services [Discussion of Real estate market, 134, 137].
• Reducing Disputes: The clear rules are expected to reduce the number of judicial disputes and provide greater stability and planning capability for both tenants and investors [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, 131, 133].

Cancer Screening: Technology, Benefits, and Global Strategy

The sources provide extensive discussion on Cancer Screening (الفحص المبكر), highlighting its critical importance in Saudi Arabia and globally for increasing cure rates, reducing costs, and leveraging advanced technologies.

I. Importance and Success Rates of Early Screening

Early cancer screening is emphasized as one of the most important medical strategies in combating the disease [NEW SOURCE, 52]. Scientific evidence confirms that early detection dramatically improves outcomes:

• Increased Cure Rates: Early detection can increase success rates in treatment and cure percentages to 90%, compared to only 20% when the disease is discovered at late stages [NEW SOURCE, 52].
• Reduced Mortality and Costs: Regular and early screening can prevent up to 50% of cancer deaths [NEW SOURCE, 55]. Furthermore, every dollar invested in early screening programs saves between 3 to 7 dollars in advanced treatment costs and significantly reduces human suffering [NEW SOURCE, 55].
• Global Context: Given the global health challenge—with 19.3 million new cancer cases annually and predictions that cancer incidence will rise by 47% by 2040—early screening is deemed an “imperative necessity” to face this challenge [NEW SOURCE, 53, 54].

II. Advanced Techniques and Technology in Screening

Modern medicine is utilizing advanced technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to make screening more effective and less invasive:

• Liquid Biopsies and AI: Advanced early detection technologies include sophisticated blood tests (فحوصات دموية متطورة), liquid biopsies, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) [NEW SOURCE, 53].
• Genetic Mapping and Targeted Therapy: The development of genetic mapping and modern genomics allows physicians to analyze the cell’s nuclear DNA to precisely detect the mutations responsible for tumor growth, aiding in the selection of the most appropriate targeted treatment for each patient [NEW SOURCE, 51, 296].
• Advanced Imaging (CT Scans): Computed Tomography (CT) scans offer a less invasive alternative for colon screening for patients who cannot undergo traditional endoscopy [NEW SOURCE, 55].

III. Specific Screening Examples

The sources highlight successful outcomes related to screening for specific types of cancer:

• Breast Cancer: Studies show that early detection through mammography screening contributes to a 22% reduction in breast cancer deaths [NEW SOURCE, 55].
• Cervical Cancer: Early screening has successfully reduced morbidity and mortality from cervical cancer in developed countries by 68% [NEW SOURCE, 55].
• Colorectal Cancer: Preventive screening for colorectal cancer is recommended for individuals aged 45 to 75 years. This can involve a fecal occult blood test conducted every 10 years, or an annual, non-costly, at-home stool test, which has been shown to reduce mortality by 15% to 33% [NEW SOURCE, 54, 55].
• Blood Cancer (Children): Saudi Arabia has achieved the highest cure rates globally for childhood blood tumors (leukemia), exceeding 95% total cure rates, partly due to advanced treatment technologies like CAR-T cell gene therapy [NEW SOURCE, 54, 55].

IV. Challenges and Misconceptions

Despite its clear benefits, the effectiveness of early screening programs is hampered by several challenges and incorrect public perceptions:

• Socioeconomic Barriers: Obstacles include economic challenges and lack of access to services in developing countries, where up to 40% of the population does not undergo colon cancer screening [NEW SOURCE, 56].
• Misconceptions: Common misconceptions include the false belief that taking biopsies leads to the spread of the disease, and the incorrect practice of replacing comprehensive medical treatment with traditional folk medicine [NEW SOURCE, 56, 57].

V. Saudi Arabia’s Future Vision for Oncology

Saudi Arabia aims to leverage these advancements and improve its global standing in cancer treatment:

• Global Leadership: The Kingdom is working to become one of the top five countries globally in the field of health [NEW SOURCE, 54].
• Strategic Goals: Vision 2030 aims to achieve an advanced phase in oncology by investing in research, supporting specialized centers, increasing the efficiency of medical staff, implementing digital transformation, and developing a National Cancer Registry [NEW SOURCE, 58].
• Life Expectancy Goal: A key national strategy is to raise the average life expectancy of citizens to 75 years [NEW SOURCE, 54].

Global Military Operations and Defense Trends

The sources discuss military operations primarily in the context of the ongoing Gaza Conflict (described as Israeli aggression or a war of genocide) and the broader geopolitical landscape involving countries like Sudan, Russia/Ukraine, and Venezuela, as well as Saudi Arabia’s own military industry development.

1. Israeli Military Operations (Aggression in Gaza and West Bank)

The military operations conducted by Israel in Gaza are characterized by high intensity and are described by some sources as a “war of genocide/extermination” (حرب الإبادة الجماعية) [NEW SOURCE, 155, Discussion of Israeli aggression].

A. Operations in Gaza:

• Continuous Raids and Shelling: Israeli occupation forces are executing a series of continuous air and artillery raids across various areas, including Gaza City, Nuseirat Camp, and Khan Younis [Discussion of Gaza Conflict, NEW SOURCE, 154, 138, 139].
• Targeting Infrastructure and Homes: Operations involve demolishing residential buildings using direct explosions and explosive drones [NEW SOURCE, 138, 154]. This aggression has reportedly destroyed up to 88% of Gaza’s vital infrastructure [NEW SOURCE, 162].
• Casualties: The operations have resulted in a tragic toll of casualties, with reports of 65,344 martyrs and 166,795 injured [Discussion of Gaza Conflict]. Specific incidents detail the martyrdom of citizens, including children and women, following strikes on houses in refugee camps [NEW SOURCE, 156].
• Stated Objectives: The Israeli operation, codenamed “Gideon’s Vehicles B” (مركبات جدعون ب), officially aims for the occupation of Gaza City and the elimination of Hamas [NEW SOURCE, 139]. Israeli officials have vowed that the war will not stop until all its goals are achieved [NEW SOURCE, 139].
• Siege and Humanitarian Impact: The military operations are compounded by a stringent siege, leading to a severe humanitarian disaster characterized by destruction and famine [Discussion of Gaza Conflict, NEW SOURCE, 155].

B. Operations in the West Bank:

• Incursions and Demolitions: Israeli forces conduct daily aggression in the West Bank, including raids and the demolition of infrastructure in camps like Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams [NEW SOURCE, 166, 172].
• New Command Center: The Israeli army command in the West Bank is establishing a new command fire center in Jerusalem, similar to those used in Gaza and Lebanon [NEW SOURCE, 147]. This center will manage aerial and artillery attacks, including the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), reflecting an intent to intensify air operations in the West Bank [NEW SOURCE, 147, 148].

2. Global Military Operations and Conflicts

The sources reference military activities and conflicts elsewhere, often highlighting the human and economic costs of war.

• Sudan War (Post-April 2023): Two years of war in Sudan, beginning in April 2023, have resulted in devastating losses to the health sector, estimated at more than $14 billion [NEW SOURCE, 14]. The war has led to 73 hospitals going out of service due to destruction and looting, with some facilities being converted into military barracks [NEW SOURCE, 14].
• Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia launched a massive air assault against Ukraine using hundreds of missiles and drones over the weekend, resulting in casualties [NEW SOURCE, 156]. Ukraine, in response, received the American Patriot air defense system from Israel [NEW SOURCE, 157]. The attack led Poland to scramble its air force jets as a precautionary measure [NEW SOURCE, 156].
• Venezuela-US Tensions: Venezuela conducted military maneuvers after the United States deployed warships off its coast, citing drug trafficking interdiction. Caracas condemned the US military presence as a “military threat” [NEW SOURCE, 167].
• US Military Leadership Meeting: US President Donald Trump was scheduled to attend a rare meeting with senior US Army and Navy commanders in Quantico, Virginia. The discussion was expected to emphasize the importance of adhering to the concept of the “warrior spirit” [NEW SOURCE, 12, 13].
• US Domestic Deployment: President Trump ordered the deployment of federal forces to Portland, Oregon, to protect facilities and authorized the use of “full force” against “domestic terrorists” if necessary [NEW SOURCE, 163].

3. Saudi Military Development and Capabilities

Saudi Arabia focuses on localizing military industries as a strategic component of Vision 2030, enhancing its self-sufficiency and operational capabilities [Discussion of Saudi Military Industries].

• Sectoral Support: The leadership (King Salman and Prince Mohammed bin Salman) is dedicated to providing unlimited support for all military sectors, utilizing human, technical, and mechanical capabilities [NEW SOURCE, 20].
• Military Parades: The Ministry of Interior showcased its advanced capabilities during National Day celebrations, including joint security forces and electric security vehicles [NEW SOURCE, 44]. Female military personnel participated prominently in these parades, underscoring the empowerment of women in security and defense fields [Discussion of National Day Celebration].
• Naval Procurement: The Royal Saudi Naval Forces have announced the launch of several tender competitions related to the maintenance of patrol boats and naval facilities, indicating ongoing procurement and maintenance operations [NEW SOURCE, 117, 118, 119].

4. International Military Trends (Drones and AI)

The nature of military operations is rapidly shifting toward advanced technology:

• Drones and AI: The European defense landscape is increasingly defined by drones (الطائرات المُسّيرة) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) [NEW SOURCE, 174]. Growing threats have prompted the European Commission to propose creating a “Wall of Drones” (حائط الطائرات المُسرّرة) along NATO’s eastern flank [NEW SOURCE, 175].
• Future Combat: Experts believe that AI will be key to managing the complexity of future conflicts, arguing that drones and anti-drone defenses are now an “imperative necessity” [NEW SOURCE, 174, 175].
• Production Localization: France, through companies like Renault, is exploring setting up a factory in Ukraine to produce drones for the French and Ukrainian armies, demonstrating a move toward localizing military production [NEW SOURCE, 183].

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Healthcare Transformation and Advancement

The development of the Saudi healthcare system is a key component of Vision 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE], aiming for comprehensive development and focusing intensely on improving the quality of life and raising global health standards [Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030, NEW SOURCE, 77, 78]. This transformation involves modernization, technological integration, strategic planning, and addressing national health challenges like cancer.

I. Strategic Vision and Institutional Goals

The transformation is guided by the National Transformation Program and the Quality of Life Program, seeking to transition towards a sustainable, patient-centric healthcare model.

• Global Health Ranking: Saudi Arabia is actively working to become one of the top five countries globally in the field of health [NEW SOURCE, 54].
• Life Expectancy Goal: A key strategic objective of Vision 2030 is to raise the average life expectancy of citizens to 75 years [NEW SOURCE, 54, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• Integrated Care and Innovation: The strategy involves continuous improvement, enhancing the efficiency of medical staff, implementing digital transformation, and developing a model of integrated care that puts the patient in the heart of the attention [NEW SOURCE, 58, 78].
• Healthcare Transformation Forum: Events like the “Project Management and Health Transformation Forum,” organized by King Saud Medical City, serve as a platform to exchange best practices and adopt the latest methodologies in project management to achieve sustained healthcare services [NEW SOURCE, 76, 77].

II. Advancements in Oncology and Treatment

The healthcare system has made significant strides in combating cancer, with a strong emphasis on technology and early detection [NEW SOURCE, 51, 52].

• High Cure Rates: The Kingdom has achieved notable success, including securing the highest cure rates globally for childhood blood tumors (leukemia), exceeding 95% total cure rates [NEW SOURCE, 54, 55].
• Advanced Therapies: This success is attributed partly to the adoption of advanced treatment technologies, such as CAR-T cell gene therapy for blood tumors [NEW SOURCE, 54].
• Immunotherapy and Targeted Treatment: Immunotherapy has achieved success rates ranging from 50% to 80% in curing certain types of advanced cancers previously considered untreatable. Genetic mapping allows physicians to select the most appropriate targeted treatment for each patient [NEW SOURCE, 48, 296, 297, 298].
• Technological Screening: Modern early detection leverages sophisticated blood tests, liquid biopsies, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) [NEW SOURCE, 53]. Early detection programs can increase treatment success rates to 90% and are economically efficient, with every dollar invested saving 3 to 7 dollars in advanced treatment costs [NEW SOURCE, 52, 55].

III. Specialization and Infrastructure Development

Specialized medical centers and advanced training programs are crucial for raising the quality of medical practice.

• Specialized Surgery: Specialized surgical centers, such as the one at the National Guard Hospital in Dammam (Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University), have successfully performed complex and advanced procedures, including pancreatic head tumor surgeries, achieving the highest numbers in the Middle East [NEW SOURCE, 54, 55].
• Cochlear Implantation: The Al-Ahsa Health Cluster, through its cochlear implant center, has performed 126 hearing implant surgeries using the latest global technologies, significantly improving the quality of life for patients ranging from nine months to 73 years old [NEW SOURCE, 56, 57].
• Medical Training and Accreditation: Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University’s College of Medicine was granted institutional accreditation by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). This achievement, a first for a Saudi university, signifies that the training programs meet high Canadian standards, directly supporting Vision 2030 goals to enhance the competency of Saudi physicians [NEW SOURCE, 70, 71, 72]. The university emphasizes the use of simulation centers and specialized testing to ensure the quality of clinical skills and individual performance assessment [NEW SOURCE, 71].

IV. Addressing Challenges and Supporting Health Security

The system is actively engaged in promoting health security and responding to critical needs.

• Health Security: Efforts are focused on strengthening Health Security (الأمن الصحي) through community cooperation, such as the national campaign for blood donation in Al-Qassim region. This campaign achieved a significant increase (300%) in blood bank reserves, highlighting the success of integrating health institutions and community efforts [NEW SOURCE, 22].
• Disaster Response: The sources highlight the devastating impact of conflict on healthcare infrastructure, as seen in Sudan, where two years of war resulted in the loss of over $14 billion in the health sector, with 73 hospitals going out of service due to destruction and conversion into military barracks [NEW SOURCE, 15, 16]. This context implicitly reinforces the importance of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to internal stability and robust infrastructure under King Salman’s rule [Discussion of King Salman’s Rule].
• Environmental Health: The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture is also contributing to better health outcomes through large-scale projects, such as those in the Eastern Region, focused on improving water quality, wastewater treatment, and environmental sustainability, which ultimately contribute to the health and quality of life for citizens and residents [NEW SOURCE, 17, 18, 25, 32, 33, 34].

Saudi Arabia Vision 2030: Strategy and Achievements

Vision 2030 is the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 35, 37, 101, 102, 103, 277], and it is frequently highlighted as the blueprint for the remarkable achievements celebrated during the National Day [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE]. This transformation is recognized globally as the fastest and largest of its kind in the 21st century [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of King Salman’s Rule].

The Vision is led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 212, 216, 205, 224, 239]. Its core aim is to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, 27].

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Launched in 2016, Vision 2030 aims to decrease reliance on oil by diversifying the national economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 101, 103, 104, 105, 276] and building a more varied and sustainable economic base [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

The Vision is structured around three main pillars [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]:

1. A Vibrant Society [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
2. A Thriving Economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
3. An Ambitious Nation [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

Vision 2030 serves as a “national program of comprehensive work” and an “exceptional phase of transformation and growth” [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]. It is considered a roadmap for development [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE] and is an “irreversible path” of comprehensive transformation [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Economic Diversification, SIXTH RESPONSE].

Key Achievements and Economic Diversification

The implementation of Vision 2030 has yielded significant, measurable achievements, often surpassing initial targets [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

1. Economic Diversification and Growth

The diversification strategy aims to shift the economy from being oil-dependent [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 103].

• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: The contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than half [SIXTH RESPONSE] or approaching 56% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, 165], confirming the success of the diversification strategy [FOURTH RESPONSE].
• Total GDP: The national GDP has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals (SAR) [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE].
• Financial Market Goals: A strategic goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification]. Policy efforts include raising the ceiling on foreign investor ownership in listed companies to nearly 49% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification].
• Sectoral Growth: There is quantitative growth across sectors such as health, education, transport, communications, industry, water, and agriculture [EIGHTH RESPONSE, 28, 29].

2. Investment, Industrialization, and Strategic Projects

Vision 2030 aims to make the Kingdom an investment-attractive destination [FOURTH RESPONSE].

• Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF is crucial for diversification [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE].
• Mega-Projects: The Vision is restructuring regions through colossal strategic projects, including:
• NEOM [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
• Qiddiya [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
• The Red Sea Project [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
• Al-Diriyah Gate Project: Aims to revive the historical capital as a global cultural and tourism destination [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Media and Culture].
• Industrial Transformation: The Saudi government is driving a non-oil industrial renaissance. A strategic goal is to build a sector that contributes significantly to the national GDP and increase the number of factories to over 36,000 by 2035. This includes focusing on advanced manufacturing, such as the automotive industry.
• Defense Localization: A core strategic goal is to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Military Industries], enhancing national sovereignty and strategic independence [Discussion of Saudi Military Industries]. The localization rate has surged to over 19% [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Energy and Sustainability: The Vision is supported by efforts to achieve environmental and water sustainability. The Kingdom aims to generate half of its domestic energy needs from renewables by 2030.

3. Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

The Vision places the citizen in the heart of development and as the cornerstone of the nation’s progress [FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 74].

• Women’s Empowerment: The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached 35.5% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], surpassing the initial 2030 target of 30% [THIRD RESPONSE, 50, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• Unemployment: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7% [THIRD RESPONSE], reaching 6.3%, surpassing the 2030 target [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Homeownership: The homeownership ratio among Saudi families reached 65.4% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], slightly exceeding the 65% target set for 2025 [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Volunteering: The number of volunteers has increased, reaching 1.2 million [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 60].
• Quality of Life Program: This program aims to improve the quality of life, ensuring a vibrant and prosperous lifestyle by developing entertainment, sports, culture, and tourism [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 27, 74, 75, 79, 96, 276].

4. Technological and Media Advancements

The Vision emphasizes digital transformation, AI, and media sector development [Discussion of Media and Culture, EIGHTH RESPONSE].

• AI Leadership: The Kingdom ranks third globally in the growth of AI jobs [THIRD RESPONSE]. Key initiatives include utilizing AI for cybersecurity and establishing a Center of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Media [Discussion of Media and Culture].
• Digital Transformation: The Kingdom achieved the seventh rank globally in the e-Participation index, surpassing its 2030 goal of reaching the top ten [EIGHTH RESPONSE].
• Media Development: The Ministry of Information’s strategy aligns with Vision 2030 to reinforce the positive perception of Saudi Arabia globally and enhance the quality and diversity of media content [Discussion of Media and Culture].
• Tourism: The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 106 million in 2023 or 100 million in 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], achieving the 2030 target years ahead of schedule [SIXTH RESPONSE].

Vision, Identity, and Values

Vision 2030 transformation seeks to balance rapid modernity (Al-Hadatha) with the preservation of deep-rooted values and heritage (Al-Asala) [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Media and Culture, 205].

• Cultural Diplomacy: The Vision supports the elevation of cultural and historical sites and promotes national symbols that project global ambition while honoring the Saudi citizen’s character [Discussion of National Identity Day, SIXTH RESPONSE, 217].
• Irreversible Path: The accomplishments of this era serve as a pillar for the continuity of the state, confirming the development path is an “irreversible path” [SIXTH RESPONSE].

Saudi Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Global Investment

This document is a collection of excerpts, likely from a Saudi Arabian newspaper or official report, highlighting the nation’s ambitious progress across various sectors, driven by Saudi Vision 2030. A central theme is the significant economic diversification away from oil, evidenced by the surge in foreign direct investment, particularly into previously overlooked areas like tourism, entertainment, and advanced technologies. The text also details a landmark acquisition, where the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) led a massive $55 billion alliance to acquire a major American video game company, underscoring the PIF’s role in globalizing the national economy. Furthermore, the source covers substantial domestic development efforts, including major urban projects in cities like Jeddah, the continued focus on a balanced real estate market through new regulations, and the fostering of the cultural and creative economy via initiatives like the Cultural Investment Conference and the Arabic Calligraphy Incubator.

Saudi Arabia Vision 2030: Transformation and Achievements

Vision 2030 is universally described in the sources as the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 35, 37, 101, 102, 103, 277]. It is frequently highlighted as the blueprint for the remarkable achievements celebrated during the National Day [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE], and its journey is recognized globally as the fastest and largest of its kind in the 21st century [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of King Salman’s Rule].

The Vision is led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 212, 216, 205, 224, 239]. Its core aim is to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, 27].

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Launched in 2016, Vision 2030’s primary objective is to decrease reliance on oil by diversifying the national economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 101, 103, 104, 105, 276] and building a more varied and sustainable economic base [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

The Vision is structured around three main pillars [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]:

1. A Vibrant Society [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
2. A Thriving Economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].
3. An Ambitious Nation [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

The Vision serves as a “national program of comprehensive work” and an “exceptional phase of transformation and growth” [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE], acting as a roadmap for development [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]. The commitment to this change is repeatedly affirmed as an “irreversible path” of comprehensive transformation [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Economic Diversification, SIXTH RESPONSE].

Key Achievements and Economic Diversification

The implementation of Vision 2030 has yielded significant, measurable achievements, often surpassing initial targets years ahead of the 2030 deadline [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

1. Economic Diversification and Growth

The economic strategy is aimed at transforming the economy from oil-dependent to diversified [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 103].

• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: The contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than half [SIXTH RESPONSE] or approaching 56% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, 165], confirming the success of the diversification strategy [FOURTH RESPONSE].
• Total GDP: The national GDP has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals (SAR) [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE].
• Financial Market Goals: A strategic goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification]. Policy efforts include raising the ceiling on foreign investor ownership in listed companies to nearly 49% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification].
• Sectoral Growth: There is quantitative growth across sectors such as health, education, transport, communications, industry, water, and agriculture [EIGHTH RESPONSE, 28, 29].

2. Investment, Industrialization, and Strategic Projects

The Vision seeks to transform the Kingdom into an investment-attractive destination [FOURTH RESPONSE].

• Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF is crucial for diversification [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 89, 92], with the goal of increasing the value of its assets from 600 billion SAR to more than 7 trillion SAR.
• Mega-Projects: The Vision is restructuring regions through colossal strategic projects, utilizing PIF financing to realize:
• NEOM [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 79].
• Qiddiya [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 79].
• The Red Sea Project [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 79].
• Defense Localization: A core strategic goal is to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Military Industries], enhancing national sovereignty [Discussion of Saudi Military Industries]. The localization rate has surged to over 19% [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Digital Transformation and AI: The Vision has accelerated digital services, with Saudi Arabia achieving the seventh rank globally in the e-Participation index [EIGHTH RESPONSE], and ranking third globally in the growth of AI jobs [THIRD RESPONSE].

3. Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

The Vision places the citizen in the heart of development and as the cornerstone of the nation’s progress [FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 74].

• Women’s Empowerment: The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached 35.5% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], surpassing the initial 2030 target of 30% [THIRD RESPONSE, 50, EIGHTH RESPONSE].
• Unemployment: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7% [THIRD RESPONSE], reaching 6.3%, surpassing the 2030 target [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Homeownership: The homeownership ratio among Saudi families reached 65.4% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], slightly exceeding the 65% target set for 2025 [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Quality of Life Program: This program aims to improve the quality of life, ensuring a vibrant and prosperous lifestyle by developing entertainment, sports, culture, and tourism [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 27, 74, 75, 79, 96, 276].
• Volunteering: The number of volunteers has increased, reaching 1.2 million [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 60].

4. Tourism and Cultural Goals

The Kingdom is rapidly establishing itself as a global tourism destination [SIXTH RESPONSE, 79, 85].

• Tourism Targets: The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024 [SIXTH RESPONSE], achieving the 2030 target years ahead of schedule. The goal is to reach 150 million visitors annually by 2030.
• Cultural Infrastructure: The Vision supports the establishment of institutions like the Riyadh University of Arts, aiming for it to be among the top 50 international universities specialized in arts and culture. The cultural sector’s contribution to GDP has increased to 1.6% since the launch of Vision 2030.

Vision, Identity, and Values

The transformation seeks to balance rapid modernity (Al-Hadatha) with the preservation of deep-rooted values and heritage (Al-Asala) [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Media and Culture, 205].

• National Identity: Vision 2030 reinforces national symbols and leverages achievements, such as space projects and AI, as symbols for future generations that reflect ambition and innovation [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of National Identity Day]. The goal is to solidify the Kingdom’s place as a global force, ensuring peace is a cornerstone for sustainable development [SIXTH RESPONSE, 240].

Saudi Vision 2030: Economic Diversification and Achievements

Economic diversification is the fundamental and central strategy driving the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s transformation, primarily steered by Vision 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 101, 103, 104, 105, 276, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030]. This overarching strategic framework aims to fundamentally restructure the national economy by reducing its reliance on oil and building a varied, sustainable, and globally competitive economic base [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 1, 276, 103, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].

The sources repeatedly highlight the success of this strategy, viewing the national economy as a “global model to be emulated” for a promising economy. The transformation is described as an “irreversible path” [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Economic Diversification, SIXTH RESPONSE].

Core Strategy and Goals

Vision 2030, led by King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is the roadmap for this comprehensive economic, political, and developmental transformation [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

The primary objectives of economic diversification include:

• Decreasing Reliance on Oil: Transforming the national economy from being primarily oil-dependent to one that is diversified and sustainable, where investment sectors grow and contribute significantly to income, reducing dependency on oil revenue [1, 2, 276, Discussion of Economic Diversification].
• Global Competitiveness: Positioning the Kingdom as an influential global power and a major contributor to the global economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 276].
• Structural Reforms: Implementing comprehensive economic restructuring to enable investment sectors that were previously neglected, such as tourism, entertainment, and advanced technologies.

Key Achievements and Metrics

The execution of Vision 2030 has yielded substantial, measurable achievements, validating the efficiency of economic policies [FOURTH RESPONSE].

• Non-Oil GDP and Revenue Growth:
• The contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than 50%, nearing 56% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, 165].
• The total national output (GDP) has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals (SAR) [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE].
• The total value of trade finance facilities provided by the Saudi Export-Import Bank to enable non-oil Saudi exports reached over 89 billion SAR by mid-2025.
• The value of loans approved by the Saudi Industrial Development Fund exceeded 88 billion SAR since the launch of Vision 2030.
• Foreign Investment:
• The acceleration of foreign investment has been observed, with a recorded rise in foreign direct investments of 14.5% during the second quarter of 2025, reaching 22.8 billion SAR, compared to the corresponding period in the previous year.
• The goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification].

Investment and Sectoral Development

Diversification is heavily reliant on massive capital deployment through the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the development of high-growth sectors [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].

1. Strategic Sectors and Mega-Projects

• Future Cities: Diversification is realized through colossal strategic projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 73, 80], designed to be unique global tourism destinations.
• Tourism: The tourism sector is a major economic engine, leveraging infrastructure development and cultural initiatives. The number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024 [SIXTH RESPONSE], achieving the 2030 target ahead of schedule [SIXTH RESPONSE, 73]. The Kingdom aims to raise tourism’s contribution to GDP to 10% by 2030, up from 3% at the launch of the Vision.
• Military Industries Localization: A crucial economic and security objective is to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Military Industries]. The localization rate has already surged to over 19% [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Mining and Manufacturing: Efforts are underway to achieve technology localization (توطن التكنولوجيا) and establish the Kingdom as a technology hub for mining. Plans include launching a financial market dedicated to mineral commodities soon. The mining system in the Kingdom is noted globally for its balance between investor protection, community requirements, and environmental protection.
• Automotive Industry: Investments are being made to establish a system for car manufacturing, such as the investment exceeding 1.8 billion SAR in a Hyundai factory within King Salman Energy Park (SPARK).
• Cultural Investment: The cultural sector’s contribution to the national GDP has jumped to 1.6% since the launch of Vision 2030.

2. Strategic Acquisitions

PIF’s investment strategy includes high-profile global acquisitions, demonstrating its financial muscle and diversified focus:

• Gaming Sector: A consortium led by the PIF successfully acquired the giant video game production company “Electronic Arts (EA) Arts” for approximately $55 billion. This move is part of the Kingdom’s effort to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues.

Human Capital and Quality of Life

The strategy emphasizes that economic development relies on developing the Saudi citizen, who is considered the cornerstone of national progress [FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 247, 248].

• Women’s Empowerment: The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached 35.5% by the end of 2024, surpassing the initial 2030 target of 30% [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE].
• Unemployment: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to 6.3%, surpassing the 2030 target [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Job Creation: Diversification efforts, especially in newly developing sectors, create job opportunities for Saudi youth.
• Quality of Life: The Quality of Life Program seeks to enhance the environment for citizens and visitors. The stabilization of the real estate market through regulations that freeze rents in Riyadh is a measure directly tied to easing cost pressures and enhancing the quality of life [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Real estate market].

Saudi Foreign Investment Growth Under Vision 2030

Foreign Investment Growth is a crucial indicator of the success of Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive economic restructuring under Vision 2030. The Kingdom has made significant legislative and structural changes to transform its environment into one that is highly attractive and flexible for international capital and expertise.

1. Measurable Growth and Attractiveness

The official statistics provided in the sources confirm a clear upward trajectory in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the Kingdom.

• Significant Increase: The second quarter of the current year (2025) witnessed a notable surge in FDI, reaching 22.8 billion Saudi Riyals (SAR), representing an increase of 14.5% compared to the corresponding period in the previous year (2024).
• Reflecting Attractiveness: These statistics reflect the growing attractiveness of the investment environment in the Kingdom and its continuous progress toward achieving the objectives of Vision 2030, which aims to diversify income sources.
• Investor Confidence: This growth would not have been achieved without the confidence of the foreign investor in the Saudi markets.

2. Strategic Drivers of Investment Growth

The increase in foreign investment is a direct result of government efforts to streamline operations and open up new sectors that were previously neglected.

• Legislative Reforms: The government implemented structural reforms, adjusted regulations, and simplified procedures to facilitate the entry of foreign investments.
• Sectoral Diversification: Vision 2030 has specifically enabled several investment sectors that were previously underdeveloped, such as tourism, entertainment, and advanced technologies.
• Mega-Projects as Investment Magnets: The Kingdom is relying on massive, globally unique mega-projects, such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project, to attract high-quality investments. These projects are seen as strategic investment destinations.
• Ease of Doing Business: The government has launched numerous initiatives that succeeded in facilitating the practice of business.

3. Investment Channels and Strategic Acquisitions

Foreign investment flows not only into sovereign projects but also into strategic global assets led by the Kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund.

• PIF-Led Acquisitions: The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a central vehicle for diversification. The PIF-led strategy includes major international investments, such as the acquisition of the giant video game production company “Electronic Arts (EA) Arts” for approximately $55 billion. This move is part of the Kingdom’s effort to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues.
• Financial Market Liberalization: A strategic goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE]. Efforts, such as raising the ceiling on foreign investor ownership in listed companies (currently nearly 49%), are intended to attract substantial foreign investment funds [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification, 130, 131].
• Tourism Infrastructure: The Kingdom launched initiatives to encourage international investments in tourism, with the goal of increasing tourism’s contribution to GDP to 10% by 2030.

4. Direct Benefits of FDI

The growing trend of foreign investment brings multiple national benefits beyond simply financial returns:

• Technology Transfer: The growth in FDI contributes to the introduction of modern technologies to the Kingdom.
• Job Creation: These investments provide job opportunities for citizens after training them on the use of modern technologies.
• Boosting Specific Sectors: Investment in sectors like the industrial system is growing, exemplified by an investment exceeding 1.8 billion SAR in a Hyundai car manufacturing factory within the King Salman Energy Park, which helps localize knowledge and training for national competencies in advanced industrial fields.
• Real Estate Sector: The recent approval of a system allowing non-Saudis to own real estate is expected to open a new space in the market, stimulating investment and increasing the quality and supply of properties.

In summary, the growth in foreign investment is viewed as proof that Saudi Arabia is successfully making the transition towards a non-oil diversified economy, fueled by institutional reforms, strategic projects, and enhanced transparency.

Cultural Investment is a Strategic, High-Priority Pillar

Cultural investment is a strategic, high-priority pillar of Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive transformation agenda, Vision 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030]. The goal is to move beyond viewing culture merely as an expression of identity and heritage, transforming it into a strategic and vital economic sector that contributes significantly to the national GDP and enhances the quality of life [EIGHTH RESPONSE, 247].

The Cultural Investment Ecosystem

The cultural transformation is being led by the Ministry of Culture, supported by the country’s visionary leadership.

Key Objectives and Achievements:

• GDP Contribution: Since the launch of Vision 2030, the contribution of the Saudi cultural sector to the national GDP has achieved a historical leap, jumping to 1.6% [205, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• Employment Growth: The number of workers in the cultural sector has increased to 234 thousand.
• Infrastructure Investment: Investments in the cultural sector’s infrastructure have reached historical levels, exceeding 81 billion Riyals.
• Increased Licensing: The number of cultural licenses has surged to over 9,000, and the number of non-profit cultural associations and institutions has increased to 993.
• Vision Implementation: The Ministry of Culture guides this transformation through an integrated effort, focusing on developing legislative infrastructure (issuing licenses and regulations), providing attractive investment incentives, and launching initiatives that stimulate growth.

Strategic Investments and Human Capital

Cultural investment is heavily focused on developing human capabilities and establishing world-class institutions:

• Riyadh University of Arts: A major announcement coincided with the Cultural Investment Conference regarding the imminent launch of the Riyadh University of Arts. This university is intended to be a cornerstone for creative education and innovation, aimed at feeding the cultural sector with talented and creative individuals. The strategic goal is for this institution to be among the top 50 international universities specializing in arts and culture [204, 5, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• Cultural Academies: An Academy of Arts and Culture was inaugurated in Riyadh and Jeddah as the first governmental directorate to serve culturally talented individuals in the Kingdom.
• Arab Calligraphy Incubator: The launch of the “Arab Calligraphy Incubator” initiative by the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy is aimed at supporting and empowering talent in the art of calligraphy. It offers grants that can reach up to 120 thousand Riyals to support distinguished projects, utilizing integrated developmental programs and mentorship from experts. This effort supports the economic value of Arabic calligraphy as a cornerstone of Saudi cultural identity.

Investment Platforms and Global Engagement

High-profile events and global partnerships serve as crucial platforms for attracting investment and showcasing the Kingdom’s cultural readiness:

• Cultural Investment Conference 2025: This conference, held in Riyadh and attended by over 1,500 participants and 150 speakers (including major international figures from institutions like Sotheby’s and Christie’s), acts as a central platform for discussing the future of cultural investment and forging strategic partnerships. The inaugural edition saw the signing of 89 partnership agreements valued at nearly 5 billion Riyals.
• Global Recognition: The presence of prominent global figures at the conference validates the Kingdom’s rising standing on the global cultural map and confirms the confidence of the international community in the Saudi market’s potential to become a regional and global center for creative and cultural industries.
• Cultural Diplomacy: The Kingdom uses culture as a form of soft power [Discussion of Saudi Foreign Relations], leveraging its profound cultural heritage and the Arabic language for cultural diplomacy [Discussion of National Identity Day, Discussion of Saudi Foreign Relations]. The Arabic language, in particular, is positioned to remain foundational in the digital age, supported by conferences focusing on AI and linguistic computing.

Investment in Heritage and Quality of Life

Cultural investment is integrated with infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements:

• Al-Diriyah Gate Project: This project aims to revive historical sites as global cultural and tourism destinations [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• Heritage Preservation: Institutions like the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies are focused on preserving the Arab manuscript heritage, having collected tens of thousands of manuscripts and undertaken restoration work on over 330 thousand books, manuscripts, and documents.
• Creative Industries (Entertainment and Media): Investment extends to the entertainment sector, which is projected to reach $4.63 billion by 2030 [Discussion of Saudi entertainment]. Dramatic production, such as film and television series, is leveraged as a “cultural bridge” and soft power tool to shape collective memory and convey national values [Discussion of Saudi entertainment, Discussion of National Identity Day]. The growth of the film industry, supported by initiatives like the Red Sea International Film Festival, is aimed at empowering young Saudi talent [Discussion of Saudi entertainment].

In summary, Saudi Arabia views cultural investment not as a secondary luxury, but as an essential engine for sustainable development and a means to balance authenticity (Al-Asala) with global modernity (Al-Hadatha) [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Tourism Transformation

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is aggressively pursuing the goal of establishing itself as a Global Tourism Hub, driven by the comprehensive economic strategy of Vision 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030]. This transformation is not merely an act of celebration, but a crucial component of diversifying the economy away from oil, attracting global investment, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens and residents.

Strategic Goals and Metrics

Saudi Arabia’s efforts in tourism are marked by ambitious, often accelerated, targets:

• Accelerated Achievement: The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024 [SIXTH RESPONSE, 80], achieving the initial 2030 target years ahead of schedule [SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• New Target: The Kingdom is striving to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030.
• GDP Contribution: The goal is to raise tourism’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 10% by 2030, a significant increase from only 3% when Vision 2030 was launched [79, Discussion of Economic Diversification].
• Job Creation: The tourism sector aims to create more than 1.6 million new jobs for Saudi youth, supported by training programs in hospitality and event management.
• Investment: The strategy seeks to attract and channel both local and international investments into the sector.

Key Strategic Pillars and Investment Projects

The Kingdom’s strategy relies on building massive, unique infrastructure and leveraging its geographical advantages.

1. Mega-Projects and Unique Destinations

Strategic colossal projects are central to attracting high-quality, diverse investments and creating unique global tourist destinations. These include:

• NEOM: Positioned as a smart city and global hub [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 79, 81].
• Qiddiya: Developed as a global entertainment and recreational destination [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 79, 81].
• The Red Sea Project and AMAALA: These projects are specifically designed to attract travelers seeking luxury, adventure, and unique natural experiences.

2. Enhancing Infrastructure and Connectivity

The transformation involves significant investment in making the Kingdom a central hub connecting three continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe):

• Air Connectivity: The Air Connectivity Program has been launched to enhance air links between the Kingdom and other countries, opening new air routes and increasing the capacity of flights.
• Airport Capacity: Work is underway to raise the airport capacity to accommodate up to 330 million passengers annually by 2030.
• Digital and Transport Infrastructure: The Kingdom is developing smart city services, transportation networks, and entry procedures to facilitate the tourist experience.

3. Diversified Tourism Offerings

The strategy focuses on offering multiple patterns of tourism that appeal to different global segments:

• Religious Tourism: Maintaining the Kingdom’s position as a principal destination for religious tourism.
• Cultural and Heritage Tourism: Developing historical sites like Al-Diriyah and Al-Ula and restoring the historic neighborhoods of Jeddah.
• Adventure and Ecotourism: Leveraging the varied climate and diverse geographical features, from the beaches of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf to the sand dunes of the Empty Quarter, and the mountains of Tabuk and Taif. This geographic and climatic diversity allows the Kingdom to be a year-round destination, unconstrained by a single season.
• Events and Entertainment: Attracting and organizing global events, such as Formula 1, the Dakar Rally, and major cultural festivals like the Riyadh Season, which place the Kingdom on the global entertainment map.

4. Facilitating the Visitor Experience

To ease entry and boost visitor volume, the Kingdom has simplified travel procedures:

• Tourist Visa: Saudi Arabia launched the electronic tourist visa covering more than 60 countries, along with a package of facilities designed to ensure an easy and secure journey for the tourist.

5. International Standing and Partnerships

Saudi Arabia’s efforts are recognized globally, reinforcing its status as a key player in the international tourism industry:

• Global Leadership: The Kingdom previously hosted and presided over the 118th session of the Executive Council of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), leading policy-making and strategic direction for the global sector.
• Collaboration: Saudi Arabia emphasizes positive and constructive collaboration with the United States, UNWTO partners, and member states to address pressing issues in the sector.
• Soft Power: Tourism and the related cultural activities, such as showcasing authentic Saudi heritage and crafts, are seen as integral to projecting the national identity and fostering cultural diplomacy.

Saudi Vision 2030: Priorities and Progress

This source presents a snapshot of Saudi Arabia’s diverse national priorities, covering foreign policy, economic development, and social initiatives, all framed within the ambitious Vision 2030 framework. Key themes include the Kingdom’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause, notably its role in the 2002 “Arab Peace Initiative,” and ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a just solution based on the two-state solution. Economically, the country remains committed to expansionary fiscal policies, projecting a budget of 1.3 trillion riyals for 2026, aimed at diversifying the non-oil economy and promoting sectors like education, real estate, and cultural investment. Furthermore, the document highlights significant progress in improving the quality of life through initiatives focused on elderly care, food security, and modernizing urban services, such as the relocation of major companies like Ernst & Young to the new regional hub in Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: Transformation and Achievements

Vision 2030 is universally described in the sources as the ambitious, comprehensive strategy guiding the transformation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030, 35, 37, 101, 102, 103, 277]. It is frequently highlighted as the blueprint for the remarkable achievements celebrated during the National Day [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE], and its journey is recognized globally as the fastest and largest of its kind in the 21st century [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of King Salman’s Rule].

The Vision is led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers, Prince Mohammed bin Salman [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030, 212, 216, 205, 224, 239]. Its core aim is to fundamentally rebuild the nation for a prosperous and sustainable future [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, 27].

Core Goals and Strategic Framework

Launched in 2016, Vision 2030’s primary objective is to decrease reliance on oil by diversifying the national economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030, 101, 103, 104, 105, 276, Discussion of Economic Diversification] and building a more varied and sustainable economic base [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE].

The Vision is structured around three main pillars [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]:

1. A Vibrant Society [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 16, 17].
2. A Thriving Economy [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 17].
3. An Ambitious Nation [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 17].

The Vision serves as a “national program of comprehensive work” and an “exceptional phase of transformation and growth” [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE], acting as a roadmap for development [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE]. The commitment to this change is repeatedly affirmed as an “irreversible path” of comprehensive transformation [Discussion of Real Estate Regulations, Discussion of Economic Diversification, SIXTH RESPONSE].

Key Achievements and Economic Diversification

The implementation of Vision 2030 has yielded significant, measurable achievements, often surpassing initial targets years ahead of the 2030 deadline [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].

1. Economic Diversification and Growth

The economic strategy is aimed at transforming the economy from oil-dependent to diversified [THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 103].

• Non-Oil GDP Contribution: The contribution of non-oil activities to the total GDP has reached more than half [SIXTH RESPONSE] or approaching 56% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE, 165, Discussion of Economic Diversification], confirming the success of the diversification strategy [FOURTH RESPONSE].
• Total GDP: The national GDP has reached levels exceeding 4.5 trillion Saudi Riyals (SAR) [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, FOURTH RESPONSE].
• Financial Market Goals: A strategic goal is to elevate the Saudi financial market into the top 10 global financial markets by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification]. Policy efforts include raising the ceiling on foreign investor ownership in listed companies to nearly 49% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Economic Diversification, 130, 131].
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): The second quarter of 2025 witnessed a surge in FDI, reaching 22.8 billion SAR, an increase of 14.5% over the previous year [Discussion of Economic Diversification].

2. Investment, Industrialization, and Strategic Projects

The Vision seeks to transform the Kingdom into an investment-attractive destination [FOURTH RESPONSE].

• Public Investment Fund (PIF): The PIF is crucial for diversification [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 89, 92, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030], with the goal of increasing the value of its assets from 600 billion SAR to more than 7 trillion SAR [Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• Mega-Projects: The Vision drives colossal strategic projects, utilizing PIF financing for NEOM, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project [EIGHTH RESPONSE, THIRD RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 79, 81].
• Defense Localization: A core strategic goal is to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030 [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Military Industries], enhancing national sovereignty [Discussion of Saudi Military Industries]. The localization rate has surged to over 19% [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Digital Transformation and AI: The Kingdom achieved the seventh rank globally in the e-Participation index [EIGHTH RESPONSE], and ranks third globally in the growth of AI jobs [THIRD RESPONSE].

3. Human Capital, Labor Market, and Quality of Life

The Vision places the citizen in the heart of development and as the cornerstone of the nation’s progress [FOURTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 74].

• Women’s Empowerment: The participation rate of Saudi women in the labor market reached 35.5% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], surpassing the initial 2030 target of 30% [THIRD RESPONSE, 50, EIGHTH RESPONSE].
• Unemployment: The unemployment rate among Saudis dropped to less than 7% [THIRD RESPONSE], reaching 6.3%, surpassing the 2030 target [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Homeownership: The homeownership ratio among Saudi families reached 65.4% by the end of 2024 [THIRD RESPONSE], slightly exceeding the 65% target set for 2025 [THIRD RESPONSE].
• Quality of Life Program: This program aims to ensure a vibrant and prosperous lifestyle by developing entertainment, sports, culture, and tourism [EIGHTH RESPONSE, SIXTH RESPONSE, 27, 74, 75, 79, 96, 276].
• Volunteering: The number of volunteers has increased, reaching 1.2 million [THIRD RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, 60].

4. Tourism and Cultural Goals (Global Hub)

The Kingdom is rapidly establishing itself as a Global Tourism Hub [SIXTH RESPONSE, 79, 85].

• Tourism Targets: The total number of visitors (domestic and international) surpassed 100 million in 2024 [SIXTH RESPONSE], achieving the 2030 target years ahead of schedule [SIXTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030]. The new goal is to reach 150 million visitors annually by 2030 [Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].
• Cultural Investment: Cultural investment is seen as a vital economic sector [Discussion of Cultural Investment]. The cultural sector’s contribution to GDP has increased to 1.6% since the launch of Vision 2030 [Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030, 205]. The aim is to have the Riyadh University of Arts among the top 50 international universities specialized in arts and culture [Discussion of Saudi Vision 2030].

Vision, Identity, and Values

The Vision 2030 transformation seeks to balance rapid modernity (Al-Hadatha) with the preservation of deep-rooted values and heritage (Al-Asala) [SIXTH RESPONSE, EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of Media and Culture, 205].

• National Identity: Vision 2030 reinforces national symbols and leverages achievements, such as space projects and AI, as symbols for future generations that reflect ambition and innovation [EIGHTH RESPONSE, Discussion of National Identity Day].
• Stability and Peace: The Vision confirms that peace is a cornerstone for achieving sustainable development and building a more prosperous future [SIXTH RESPONSE, 240]. The pursuit of global influence and openness aims to solidify the Kingdom’s position as an influential global force [EIGHTH RESPONSE].

Palestine Peace: Two-State Solution and Diplomatic Efforts

The concept of peace in Palestine is discussed extensively in the sources, primarily within the context of the ongoing military operations, the severe humanitarian crisis, and the diplomatic efforts led by Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian Authority, centered on achieving a lasting and just solution based on the Two-State Solution.

I. The Vision for Peace: The Two-State Solution

The establishment of peace is viewed as an imperative for stability and sustainable development in the region [Discussion of Saudi Foreign Relations]. The foundational position for achieving peace in Palestine is consistent across the diplomatic efforts discussed:

• Saudi Arabia’s Unwavering Position: Saudi Arabia’s position on the Palestinian Cause has remained constant since the Kingdom’s founding. The Kingdom emphasizes that a just settlement must be achieved on the basis of the Two-State Solution, ensuring the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
• The Arab Peace Initiative: The Kingdom utilized its influence by proposing the Arab Peace Initiative in 2002, which remains a core reference for any just settlement.
• A Practical Approach: Peace is seen as the most realistic path to achieving a just settlement between the Palestinians and Israelis, provided the necessary political will and sufficient international guarantees are available.

II. Diplomatic Efforts and International Momentum

Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian Authority have actively engaged in diplomatic initiatives to push for a resolution, particularly in the wake of the ongoing conflict.

• Supporting the Trump Plan (Conditional Welcome): The Saudi Council of Ministers, and the Palestinian Presidency, welcomed a plan presented by former U.S. President Donald Trump for ending the conflict in Gaza.
• Saudi Conditions: The welcome was conditional on the plan guaranteeing a comprehensive agreement to halt the war in Gaza, facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid without restrictions, and included Trump’s announcement that he would not allow the annexation of the West Bank by Israel.
• Palestinian Readiness: The Palestinian Presidency confirmed its readiness for positive and constructive engagement with the U.S. and all parties to achieve peace, security, and stability. They stressed that any comprehensive agreement must ensure a full Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, West Bank (including East Jerusalem), and the cessation of unilateral actions that violate international law.
• Growing International Recognition: The sources highlight the success of intensive Saudi efforts in increasing the number of nations that recognize the State of Palestine. This growing international recognition reinforces the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. This diplomatic success has contributed to the increasing international isolation of Israel and the erosion of its political standing.
• International Consensus: The high-level international conference held in New York in September 2025 confirmed the international consensus around a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian Cause and the need to achieve the Two-State Solution. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that the establishment of a Palestinian state is a right, not a reward, and that rejecting it would be a “gift to extremists” everywhere.

III. The Challenge to Peace: Ongoing Israeli Aggression

The pursuit of peace is repeatedly juxtaposed with the reality of continuous Israeli aggression (often termed a “war of genocide”) which poses the greatest challenge to achieving stability [NEW SOURCE, 155, 150, 151].

• Military Campaign and Siege: Israeli aggression is characterized by continuous air raids, artillery shelling, and a stringent siege on the Gaza Strip, which has exacerbated famine and resulted in catastrophic casualties and systematic killing [Discussion of Israeli aggression, Discussion of Gaza Conflict, NEW SOURCE, 154, 155, 156].
• Violation of International Law: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister condemned the “wild practices” carried out by occupation authorities “without deterrent,” asserting that these actions violate international law and constitute crimes against humanity and acts of genocide [NEW SOURCE, 150, 151, 170, 159].
• Need for Immediate Action: Saudi Arabia and the Palestinian Authority demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages and prisoners, and the unimpeded entry of adequate humanitarian aid [Discussion of Gaza Conflict, 22, 151, 160]. The failure of the international community to halt these actions is seen as contributing to the destabilization of regional and global security [NEW SOURCE, 151].
• Settler and Military Activity: Israeli military incursions, arrests, and the demolition of infrastructure continue in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, including the closure of the Ibrahimi Mosque. These activities, including calls by extremist groups for mass intrusions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, are viewed as attempts to establish new facts on the ground and threaten the religious character of holy sites [NEW SOURCE, 173, 174, 170].

Saudi Arabia 2026 Budget and Vision 2030

The Saudi Arabian government budget for the fiscal year 2026 is characterized by the continuation of expansionary and transformative spending policies. The announcement of the preliminary statement for the 2026 budget confirms the government’s commitment to prioritizing national objectives that yield significant social and economic benefits, in alignment with Vision 2030 goals.

Key Budget Figures (2026 Estimates)

The Ministry of Finance announced the following preliminary estimates for the 2026 fiscal year:

MetricEstimated Amount (Billion SAR)NotesSourceTotal Expenditures (النفقات)1,313Projected to increase to 1,419 billion SAR by 2028.Total Revenues (الإيرادات)1,147Projected to increase to 1,294 billion SAR by 2028.Fiscal Deficit (العجز)Estimated at 3.3% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).Projected to remain at lower levels than estimated for the medium term.Fiscal Strategy and Economic Policy

The 2026 budget confirms the government’s pursuit of a proactive fiscal strategy.

• Expansionary and Counter-Cyclical Spending: The budget confirms the continued adoption of expansionary and counter-cyclical spending policies (سياسات الإنفاق التوسعي المعاكس للدورة الاقتصادية). This spending is directed toward national priorities that have a transformative social and economic impact.
• Strengthening Financial Stability: The budget for 2026 aims to reinforce the strength of the financial position of the Kingdom and ensure fiscal sustainability while supporting sustained economic growth.
• Fiscal Flexibility (المرونة المالية): Accelerating the pace of implementing programs and projects in the past period has generated tangible gains and provided the government with financial flexibility to respond to developments and maintain a counter-cyclical fiscal policy.
• Debt Management: The ratio of public debt to GDP remains relatively low compared to many other economies and is within safe financial limits. The government plans to continue domestic and international financing operations via various channels, including issuing bonds and sukuk (Islamic bonds).
• Anticipatory Policy: Given the continued state of global uncertainty and potential geopolitical tensions, the government will continue to focus on enhancing the efficiency of financial planning and employing anticipatory policies (سياسات استباقية) to face potential global economic challenges and limit their impact.

Economic Outlook (Supported by the Budget)

The planned spending is supported by positive economic performance projections, particularly concerning non-oil activities.

• Real GDP Growth: Preliminary estimates for 2026 show real GDP growth of approximately 4.6%.
• Non-Oil Activity: This growth is supported by anticipated growth in non-oil activities. The positive performance of non-oil sectors and the continuation of supportive initiatives are expected to lead to positive developments in revenues over the medium term.
• Diversification: The budget contributes to achieving Vision 2030 goals by continuing to diversify the economic base. The economic reforms undertaken since the launch of Vision 2030 have resulted in the non-oil sector’s contribution to GDP approaching 56% [EIGHTH RESPONSE, 16, 93].
• Labor Market: The positive economic performance has led to an improvement in labor market indicators, including a decrease in the unemployment rate among Saudis to 6.8% in the second quarter of 2025, surpassing the Vision 2030 target.
• Inflation Control: The budget’s policies, alongside government interventions like real estate market regulation, are designed to keep the consumer price index (inflation rate) stable at acceptable levels (forecasted at around 2.3% for 2025).

Global Oil Market Fluctuations: October 2025 Dynamics

The fluctuations in the global oil market are currently being driven by a combination of supply management policies adopted by major producing nations (OPEC+), geopolitical tensions (particularly the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Middle Eastern affairs), and fundamental concerns over market balance (supply surplus vs. demand growth).

Current Market Movements (October 2025)

As of the date in the sources (October 2025), oil prices have been under downward pressure, continuing losses seen earlier in the week:

• Price Drop: Oil prices declined on Tuesday.
• Brent Crude: November futures dropped by 28 cents (0.4%), reaching $67.69 per barrel. The more active December contract fell by 33 cents (0.5%), to $66.76 per barrel.
• West Texas Intermediate (WTI): American WTI futures fell by 29 cents (0.5%), settling at $63.16 per barrel.
• Previous Losses: These drops continued sharp losses from Monday, when both Brent and WTI stabilized after registering their largest daily declines since August 1, 2025 (over 3% loss).

Factors Driving Fluctuations

1. Supply Pressure and OPEC+ Strategy

The primary immediate pressure on prices stems from the expectation of increased supply and concerns over a pending market surplus.

• OPEC+ Anticipated Increase: Analysts anticipate that the OPEC+ alliance (which includes OPEC members and other producers like Russia, controlling nearly half of global production) is likely to approve another increase in output for November at their meeting scheduled for the coming Sunday.
• Volume of Increase: Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that the expected increase is at least 137,000 barrels per day (bpd). This follows a similar increase already scheduled for October.
• Strategic Shift: This strategy signals a shift by OPEC+ away from substantial production cuts towards measured production growth, driven by members seeking to protect their market share. However, some market analysts, such as Ed Moya, believe the market “is still not ready for more oil flow”.
• Iraqi Kurdistan Resumption: Adding to supply pressure, Iraqi Kurdistan resumed crude oil exports through a pipeline to Turkey for the first time in eighteen months.

2. Geopolitical Tensions (Risk Premium)

Geopolitical risk, while briefly easing due to proposed peace plans for Gaza, remains a significant factor influencing price volatility:

• Russian Supply Concerns: A major source of recent market anxiety has been the persistent concern over Russian oil supply. This is due to Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian refining infrastructure.
• Refinery Damage: Ukrainian drone attacks have struck approximately twelve Russian oil refineries over the previous 45 days, reportedly halting about 25% of Russia’s refining capacity. Russia responded by calling for a partial ban on diesel exports, which led to a Brent crude price increase of over 1% on Friday.
• Middle East Conflicts: While an initial welcome for an American-mediated plan to end the war in Gaza provided some “risk reduction”, the underlying tensions and uncertainties in the region persist.

3. Demand Concerns and Economic Indicators

Broader economic concerns contribute to oil market fluctuations by affecting demand forecasts:

• U.S. Government Shutdown: The potential for a U.S. government shutdown raised fears about demand. A shutdown could disrupt various services and delay the release of critical economic data (like the jobs report), which is vital for Federal Reserve policy decisions regarding interest rates.
• Waning Demand Forecasts: Negative forecasts for 2026 suggest a significant surplus due to weak demand and increased output from OPEC+. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts demand growth of only 700,000 bpd for 2026, the lowest level since 2009 (excluding the pandemic year).
• Strategic Stockpiling (China): Countering weak demand is the continued oil stockpiling by China. Reports indicate that China imported crude oil at rates much higher than needed for domestic consumption since March, with an average surplus volume of 990,000 bpd in the first eight months of the year. This continued stockpiling acts as a potential support for global prices.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Market Stability

Saudi Arabia maintains a primary leadership role in the OPEC+ alliance to manage the global oil market and promote stability [Discussion of Global oil stability]. This role is essential for ensuring supply security and maintaining market balance [Discussion of Global oil stability]. The commitment of the government to an expansionary fiscal policy in the 2026 budget also necessitates enhanced financial planning and anticipatory policies to mitigate the impact of continued global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions on the national economy [Discussion of Government Budget 2026, 85].

Saudi Elderly Care: Policy, Demographics, and Vision

The topic of Elderly Care (رعاية كبار السن) is a major focus within Saudi Arabia’s social and developmental policies, particularly under the guidance of the leadership, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This emphasis is driven by both fundamental Islamic/national values and the necessity of addressing significant demographic shifts.

I. Legal and Ethical Framework for Elderly Care

Care for the elderly is mandated through comprehensive legislative and ethical frameworks, recognizing their esteemed position in society.

• Esteem and Values: The leadership places “great attention” (اهتمامًا بالغًا) on the welfare of the elderly population, emphasizing Islamic and humanitarian principles that mandate kindness and benevolence toward them. This aligns with religious teachings that stress showing piety and kindness to parents, especially in their old age.
• Systemic Protection: The state has responded to demographic challenges by enacting legislation and regulations to protect the rights of older persons.
• This includes the issuance of the Rights of the Elderly System (نظام حقوق كبار السن) and its implementing regulations, which guarantee their full care, whether physical, social, or psychological.
• The 21st Article (المادة 21) of the system guarantees complete care for the elderly.
• Penalties are prescribed for those who neglect the care of the elderly, including fines that can reach up to 500,000 Saudi Riyals or imprisonment.
• The National Association for Human Rights and the Human Rights Commission monitor the implementation of regulations to ensure their rights are upheld and prevent all forms of violence or neglect.

II. Demographic Context and Challenges

The emphasis on elderly care is crucial due to significant demographic shifts occurring in the Kingdom:

• Population Size: The number of elderly persons (aged 60 and over) in Saudi Arabia reached between 1.9 and 2.4 million people in 2025, constituting about six percent of the total population.
• Projected Growth: Experts predict that the number of older persons in the Kingdom will double over the coming decades, constituting the largest demographic segment by the year 2050.
• Health Challenges: Studies indicate that the majority of older persons suffer from one or more chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, often compounded by obesity and physical inactivity. This rising burden requires long-term healthcare and social care planning.

III. Comprehensive Services and Programs

Saudi Arabia has established a range of strategic initiatives and physical infrastructure to meet the complex needs of the elderly.

A. Institutional and Residential Care

• The system includes 12 Social Care Homes (دورًا للرعاية االجتماعية) distributed across the Kingdom’s regions, which are tasked with upholding the rights of older persons.

B. Healthcare and Wellness Initiatives

The state has launched strategic initiatives focused on healthcare models that promote independence and quality of life:

• Health Programs: The Healthy Aging Program (برنامج الشيخوخة الصحية), affiliated with the Ministry of Health, focuses on prevention, early screening (الكشف المبكر), and the care of chronic diseases.
• Community Care: The implementation of the Age-Friendly Cities initiative, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), has been applied in several Saudi cities.
• Integrated Care Models: The government is rolling out strategic initiatives to develop integrated health care models, including expanding primary care centers and strengthening digital services that promote the elderly’s participation and independence.

IV. Social and Cultural Recognition

The national commitment to the elderly extends to social recognition, treating them not just as recipients of aid but as active contributors to society.

• Global Recognition: Saudi Arabia participates in the celebration of the International Day of Older Persons (اليوم العالمي للمسنين) (October 1st), which focuses on highlighting the transformative role older people play in society.
• Active Role: Older persons are viewed as “drivers for progress” at both local and global levels. They contribute through their knowledge and expertise in areas like health, financial well-being, and community advocacy.
• Cultural Heritage: Older persons are considered a “treasure trove” (كنز) of experience, and their presence in homes brings blessing. Their role is seen as pivotal in transferring experiences and values to new generations, reinforcing the societal structure.

In essence, Elderly Care in Saudi Arabia is evolving from mere welfare provision to a comprehensive, legally protected, and technologically supported system aimed at ensuring a dignified life and continuous social contribution for this demographic group.