Reflections on Saudi Arabia: A Journey of Transformation
The experience in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia cannot be fully grasped without actually visiting the country. I am more than astonished. It's not just about change; it's a complete transformation. It's hard to even recall the past. The overall atmosphere, the smiles, and the social interactions reflect a vibrant and positive society.
Undoubtedly, the legislation and the newly developed structures and national institutions are keystones for the mega projects underway. Some targets of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030 have already been achieved six years ahead of schedule. New laws and regulations to facilitate work and investments are quickly paving the way and aligning activities.
During a presentation by Mr. Ibrahim Alosaimi from the Ministry of Investment at the French Foreign Trade Advisors regional meeting in Riyadh, I was impressed by the advantages offered to Regional Headquarters opening in KSA. Besides thirty years of tax-free exemptions, free iqama, and no Saudization targets for ten years, among others.
During a dinner with the French Minister for Foreign Trade, Franck Riester expressed that he was very pleased with his tour in the Kingdom. The 54 Billion Euro budget for the France2030 plan, particularly its goal of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2030, has led to the creation of many new innovative startups. These successful companies are also needed in Saudi Arabia for Vision 2030, with alignment on environmental targets being clear.
What sets Saudi Arabia's vision apart from others in the GCC is its fundamental focus on sustainable programs. Each event is geared towards developing local skills to ensure long-term sustainability.
Despite the glamour and sparkle surrounding certain events or personalities, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, there is a significant amount of groundwork being done by Saudis for sustainability. Another notable example is international concerts. While they attract many tourists from the region, their significance also lies in the fact that they are accompanied
by a musical institution, and a new generation of artists is expected to emerge locally. To understand the context better, it is noteworthy to highlight that Saudi Arabia is unique among GCC countries in the fact that the majority of its inhabitants are Saudi nationals, not expatriates.
In the heart of Saudi Arabia's transformative landscape, I found myself contemplating the rich tapestry of projects I've had the privilege to work on in various countries in the region. As I witnessed the kingdom's ambitious strides towards progress, it became evident to me that Saudi Arabia's vast potential transcends geographical boundaries.
The convergence of innovation, investment, and forward-thinking initiatives presents an unparalleled opportunity for growth and collaboration. As the CEO of ARA, I am inspired by the kingdom's vision and left the country with a mindset to explore how our expertise and insights can contribute to its journey towards sustainable development and economic prosperity.