Micro-sized and small enterprises (MSEs) and freelancers are expanding rapidly in Saudi Arabia, contributing to employment generation, economic diversification and the Kingdom’s competitiveness. MSEs, freelancers and start-ups play a particularly important role in peripheral areas – they may be a backbone of the economy in smaller cities, towns and remote regions. As digital platforms…
The Social Development Bank (SDB) will host the second "Entrepreneurship & Modern Business Practices Forum" (DEVEGO). This interactive national event will focus on practical knowledge and networking to empower entrepreneurs at every stage, from inspiration to leadership. Topics will include the future of entrepreneurship and freelance work, along with enhancing support for small and emerging…
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy places digital transformation at the centre of economic diversification. Financial technology (fintech) solutions, particularly digital payments, are helping to expand financial inclusion, stimulate innovation and strengthen the private sector’s contribution to national development.This publication analyses the evolution of the Kingdom’s fintech ecosystem,…
The cultural and creative economy generates 3.1% of global GDP and supports over 30m jobs. Its scope spans film, music, fashion, heritage and museums, with multiplier effects across supply chains and services. Yet, despite its scale, the sector is often grouped with media or leisure, limiting visibility and complicating benchmarking. Trends such as digitalisation, immersive formats, and alignment…
This report explores socio-economic transformation in Al Madinah Al Munawwarah, Saudi Arabia, highlighting the region's strategic emphasis on community satisfaction, economic diversification and urban revitalisation. Al Madinah's commitment to citizen well-being is evident through a digital shift in public services, green space expansion and improved infrastructure, aligning with national…
The empowerment of micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Saudi Arabia is key to driving economic diversification and resilience. The Kingdom has laid out strategic foundations to support MSME growth, recognising their role in creating a more dynamic and inclusive economy. By fostering an environment that enables MSMEs to expand, the country aims to unlock their full potential…
Click here to read our Saudi Arabia Economic Report and Investment Analysis 2024 online …
Interview: Joseph Rank, CEO for Saudi Arabia and Africa How localised is defence manufacturing, and what is the role of the private sector in this process? JOSEPH RANK: The private sector plays a vital role in Saudi Arabia’s defence manufacturing, as it is responsible for the actual production. The government can invest directly or through industrial participation programmes to incentivise this…
Interview: Alhamedi Alanezi, CEO and President, Arabsat How are advancements in satellite communication affecting global connectivity and the Kingdom’s ambitions in the aerospace sector? ALHAMEDI ALANEZI: Advancements in satellite communication are revolutionising global connectivity by enabling faster, more reliable data transmission across regions that were previously underserved or difficult…
