Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan highlighted the success of the Saudi Vision 2030 in attracting investors to Saudi Arabia. Speaking at the Future Investment Initiative (FII8) conference in Riyadh, he noted that the non-oil economy now makes up 52 percent of the Saudi economy. Al-Jadaan emphasized that the Vision has already yielded tangible results and investors are attracted to the Kingdom due to its stability. He also pointed out the importance of women’s empowerment as a fundamental pillar of the Vision, with the goal of increasing women’s participation in the labor market to 40 percent by 2030.
One of the key priorities for Saudi Arabia is to maintain financial strength and discipline while ensuring that economic plans are consistent and the private sector can keep pace with government efforts. Al-Jadaan stressed the Kingdom’s role in maintaining stability in the region, despite geopolitical tensions. He also highlighted the challenges posed by global sovereign debt, with debt levels exceeding $300 trillion. However, he expressed optimism about the resilience of the global economy and the need to build bridges of understanding to address these challenges.
Investors are attracted to Saudi Arabia not only due to the promises of the Vision 2030, but also because of the achievements made so far. The Kingdom has seen significant growth in tourism, with a report indicating that 87 percent of the goals of the Vision have been achieved or are on track. Al-Jadaan emphasized the importance of maintaining successful initiatives and financial strength, while also addressing any remaining challenges to ensure progress as required. With the global economy facing uncertainties, Saudi Arabia remains a stable and attractive location for investors.
The minister highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment in driving economic growth, noting that the number of small projects led by women has doubled. Saudi Arabia has surpassed its target of 30 percent women’s participation in the labor market and is now aiming for 40 percent by 2030. Al-Jadaan also stressed the need for financial discipline and appropriate reserves to maintain economic stability. Despite global challenges such as sovereign debt levels, he remains confident in the resilience of the global economy and the potential for sustainable growth.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has proven to be a successful framework for attracting investors and driving economic growth. The Kingdom’s focus on maintaining financial discipline, empowering women, and addressing global challenges such as sovereign debt positions it as a stable and attractive location for investment. With the majority of Vision goals already achieved or on track, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to continue its progress and contribute to global economic stability. Investors can look to the Kingdom as a promising destination for growth and development in the coming years.