Overview

Tips and information for travellers to Saudi Arabia
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Visas Nationals of non-GCC countries and some Arab countries need visas. Business visas require a letter of sponsorship from the firm being visited. The Saudi counterpart lodges an application and is issued a receipt, which is forwarded. The applicant then presents this receipt, along with two passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a copy of the letter of sponsorship and a fee to…

Overview

How tax reform is supporting businesses in Saudi Arabia
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In recent years Saudi Arabia has established itself as one of the strongest and most dynamic economies in the Middle East. Central to this has been the reformation of the tax and zakat (a payment under Islamic law that is used for charitable or religious purposes) systems, both of which are vital for the financing of public services and the realisation of Vision 2030. Updates are focused on economic…

Overview

Saudi Arabia's legal framework prioritises environmental protection
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Amid growing global challenges, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leader in environmental protection through the adoption of ambitious laws and policies. Vision 2030 serves as a pioneering roadmap for sustainable development, focusing on improving quality of life and conserving natural resources. One of the Kingdom’s most notable environmental initiatives is the Green Riyadh project, which is one of…

Overview

Rising tourism numbers support Saudi Arabia's diversification
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Within just a few years, Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry has undergone a transformation of significant proportions. The country remained largely closed to foreign visitors until the Kingdom began to issue tourist visas in 2019, primarily serving as a destination for religious pilgrimages and business-related travel. However, the country has not merely opened its doors – it is committing massive…

Overview

Private sector participation to modernise Saudi health care
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There is cause for optimism in Saudi Arabia’s health and life sciences sectors, with the rollout of key government programmes transforming the way the Kingdom approaches medical care and scientific research. This presents notable opportunities for private sector investment – both domestic and international. Under the ambitious Health Sector Transformation Programme (HSTP), more hospitals and clinics…

Overview

New regulations are improving Saudi Arabia's education outcomes
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Saudi Arabia’s education system has undergone a significant restructuring in recent years, driven by the launch of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s blueprint for socio-economic transformation. The government has introduced a wide range of reforms aimed at closing the skills gap and spurring economic diversification rooted in a knowledge-based economy. Private education enrolment levels are expected to…

Overview

Saudi Arabia's construction pipeline reaches record high
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Saudi Arabia’s construction and real estate sectors are booming as the Kingdom continues on its path to comprehensive socio-economic transformation under Vision 2030. It is currently a world leader for construction activity, with a pipeline of projects valued at around $1.5trn, according to 2024 data from real estate services company JLL. These developments, however, go beyond simply expanding the…

Overview

Sustainable development central to transport links in Saudi Arabia
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As Saudi Arabia pursues its programme of economic diversification as part of its Vision 2030 roadmap, the country’s transport networks and logistics industry are set to play a key role in achieving these goals. The sector continues to witness rapid expansion, as large projects in a wide range of areas – including roads, ports, public transport and airlines – are quickly developed with significant…

Overview

Where to stay in Riyadh
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FAIRMONT RAMLA SERVICED RESIDENCES 7713 King Fahad Road Al Sahafah District Riyadh 13321 T: (+966) 11 224 4500 info.ramla@fairmont.com www.fairmont.com/ramla-riyadh Rooms: 249 furnished apartments, suites and a two-floor penthouse. Business & Conference Facilities: Five fully equipped meeting rooms and cinema room accommodating up to 10 guests. Health & Leisure Facilities: 24-hour fitness…

Analysis

Governments collaborating to counter cyberthreats
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The conflict in Ukraine has caused disruption across the global economy, prompting an increase in the number and sophistication of cyberattacks. According to a poll of 800 chief audit executives conducted by the UK-based Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors, 77% of respondents thought the conflict in Ukraine had elevated cybersecurity and data-security risks. Senior cybersecurity analysts have…