Latest news with #Saudis
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030: Five years left, how much progress has been made and will it succeed?
Saudi Arabia is reshaping its future with Vision 2030, a plan built on people, progress, and purpose/ Image: File TL;DR Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia 's national plan to reduce its dependence on oil and reshape its economy and society. It focuses on three core goals: a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious government. With five years to go, real progress is showing, from big infrastructure to rising foreign investment and social reforms. In 2016, Saudi Arabia made a big decision. It chose to change how the country works, not just economically, but socially and culturally too. The plan is called Vision 2030. It was introduced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and it's one of the most detailed and ambitious national transformation strategies in the world. The goal is clear: reduce Saudi Arabia's reliance on oil and open new paths for growth. That means investing in tourism, technology, clean energy, and education. It also means creating a more open and connected society, one where people, especially young Saudis and women, have more opportunities. And while many countries talk about change, Saudi Arabia is actually doing it. With five years left on the clock, Vision 2030 has already led to visible progress. Think of megaprojects like NEOM, policy shifts, and the growing presence of international businesses. The scale is big, but the direction is focused: build a more modern, more competitive country. Why Vision 2030? Saudi Arabia knew it had to change. Oil won't be the world's main engine forever, and the Kingdom wanted to get ahead of that shift. Vision 2030 was created to respond to this future. But it's not just about economics. It's also about improving quality of life, building trust in government, and making Saudi Arabia a place people want to live, work, and invest in. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Dubai villas | search ads Get Deals Undo Here's what the plan is built on: People: Prepare citizens for the future with education and skills. Business: Make it easier to invest, start a company, and grow. Government: Build a more open and efficient public sector. Since 2016, reforms have attracted global attention and funding. From clean energy to culture, the changes are happening on the ground. The country has opened up to visitors, encouraged foreign direct investment (FDI), and made space for ideas and industries that weren't part of the national story before. For Saudi citizens, this means more chances to learn, work, and create. For investors and entrepreneurs, it's a country that's open for business in ways it never was before. What Are the 3 Pillars of Vision 2030? 1. A Vibrant Society: Saudi Arabia is putting more focus on how people live day to day, not just their income, but their well-being. This means better access to culture, sports, healthcare, and public services. It's also about reconnecting with heritage and opening the country to visitors in new ways. 2. A Thriving Economy: The country is working to build a broader economy that doesn't depend on oil. That includes supporting small businesses, investing in tech and education, and making it easier for international companies to invest. It's about creating more jobs and better ones. 3. An Ambitious Nation: Behind all of this is a push to make government that's more transparent, more responsive, and better prepared for the future. It's also encouraging more people to get involved, from volunteering to helping shape public life. Targets for 2030: What's Actually Changing? Here are some of the most important goals set for 2030 and what they mean: 1. Vibrant Society Goals Raise life expectancy to 80 years (from 74) Get 40% of people exercising weekly (from 13%) Make sure 3 Saudi cities are in the world's top 100 Increase cultural spending to 6% of household budgets Welcome 30 million Umrah visitors annually Double the number of UNESCO heritage sites 2. Thriving Economy Goals Raise non-oil exports and grow the private sector's GDP share to 65% Increase women's workforce participation to 30% Grow SME contribution to 35% of GDP Increase FDI to 5.7% of GDP Lower unemployment to 7% Grow PIF assets from $159 billion to over $1.8 trillion Rank among the top 15 global economies 3. Ambitious Nation Goals One million Saudis volunteering every year Increase savings from 6% to 10% of household income Enter top five in global e-government rankings Improve from 80th to 20th in Government Effectiveness Index These aren't just numbers. They represent a serious shift in how the country works and what it prioritizes. And while not all goals are easy to hit, the direction is clear. What About Investors and Business? Private wealth, especially from ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) and family offices, is playing a key role. Many are no longer just investing money. They're working with Saudi partners to build clean tech hubs, smart cities, and future-facing tourism models. Projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Development are drawing serious global interest. These aren't just big-budget ideas, they're part of a real plan that depends on long-term infrastructure, water, energy, and digital systems. Vision 2030 isn't just a plan on paper. It's a national shift that's already happening and it has five years left to reach its goals. For Saudis, it means more choice, more opportunity, and a bigger place in the world. For the rest of the world, it's something worth paying attention to. FAQ 1. Is Vision 2030 only about economics? No. While the economy is a big focus, Vision 2030 is also about social reforms, improving government, and raising quality of life for everyone in Saudi Arabia. 2. What are the biggest changes people in Saudi Arabia will see? People will see better public services, more job opportunities, and access to entertainment, culture, and travel that weren't available before. Women and young people will also have more roles in society. 3. Can foreign businesses really succeed in Saudi Arabia now? Yes, the environment is changing fast. Regulations are improving, industries are opening up, and international companies are being invited in, especially in areas like tech, tourism, and green energy.
Time of India
9 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
Saudi's special travel permits for Syria: Are you eligible if you're an investor or businessman?
TL;DR Saudi Arabia and Syria now offer special travel permits for investors and businesspeople. Syrian applicants can apply directly at the Saudi Embassy in Damascus. Saudi investors heading to Syria can register through the Interior Ministry's online portal. Saudi Arabia and Syria are slowly rebuilding ties and the latest move is a clear sign of that. The Saudi Embassy in Damascus has started issuing special travel permits for businesspeople and investors. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This applies both ways: Syrians can now apply for entry to Saudi Arabia, while Saudis planning to invest or explore business in Syria have a new digital pathway to get approval. It's a practical step toward reopening trade, investment, and long-term economic cooperation. For years, political tensions kept relations on pause. Now, both countries seem ready to do business again and they're starting with the basics: getting people in the same room. If you're a Saudi investor eyeing Syria or a Syrian entrepreneur looking at opportunities in the Gulf, here's what you need to know. How the Travel Permit System Works 1. For Syrians traveling to Saudi Arabia If you're a Syrian business owner or investor, you can now apply for a travel license at the Saudi Embassy in Damascus. This process is handled in person and is specific to commercial and investment-related travel. The embassy will guide applicants through the steps, which include submitting documentation and waiting for approval. 2. For Saudis traveling to Syria Saudi citizens interested in visiting Syria for investment purposes can apply through the Ministry of Interior's online platform. This system aims to speed up processing and reduce paperwork. Once approved, Saudi investors will be allowed to travel to Syria legally under this new scheme. Why Now? A Look at the Broader Picture The permit system comes as part of a wider thaw in Saudi-Syria relations. After more than a decade of diplomatic freeze and prolonged regional tensions, Saudi Arabia reopened its embassy in Damascus in 2024, after a 12-year closure. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This followed a number of efforts to support Syria's recovery, including a joint Saudi-Qatari initiative to pay down part of Syria's debt to the World Bank. In short, the two countries are testing the waters. And this new permit system is one way they're doing that, not with big promises, but small, practical steps that can lead to bigger ones. What This Means for Business This policy gives business travelers on both sides a clearer, legal way to travel. For many, that removes a major hurdle. Without permits, even informal meetings were hard to arrange. Now, there's a path. Increased visits mean more opportunities to scope out projects, restart trade discussions, and build partnerships. These face-to-face interactions are often key to getting deals done in the region. And while it's too soon to say how fast things will move, this is a clear opening. Sectors like construction, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure could be early beneficiaries. A Forum to Watch Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Investment has announced plans to host a Saudi-Syria Investment Forum in Damascus. The goal is to find areas of cooperation, support sustainable development, and bring real projects to the table. This forum is expected to draw business leaders, officials, and regional investors. For those watching Syria's slow comeback, it could be a good chance to understand where the real opportunities are and what the risks still look like. Will This Affect Tourism? Not directly, at least for now. These permits are aimed at investors, not tourists. But if economic ties keep improving, general tourism could benefit too. Better roads, hotels, and infrastructure tend to follow when business activity picks up. If you're a traveler interested in either country, this news is worth following, because stable business ties often lead to easier travel overall. FAQ 1. Can anyone apply for a permit under this system? No. The permits are specifically for businesspeople and investors. If you're traveling for tourism, different rules apply. 2. How can Saudi investors apply to visit Syria? They must register through the Interior Ministry's online portal. The process is meant to be simple and digital. 3. Is this a permanent policy or just a trial? There's no formal end date, but it's being introduced as part of wider efforts to rebuild ties. Its future depends on how well it works, and how the broader relationship evolves.
Saudi Gazette
12 hours ago
- Politics
- Saudi Gazette
Israel's allies see evidence of war crimes in Gaza mounting up
By Jeremy Bowen LONDON — Two years ago, Hamas was putting the finishing touches to its plan to attack Israel. In Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believed that the Palestinians were a problem to be managed. The real threat, he insisted, was Iran. Netanyahu's rhetoric opposing Hamas was undimmed, but he had also given permission for Qatar to funnel money into Gaza. It gave him space for his real priorities in foreign policy — confronting Iran and finding a way to normalize relations with Saudi Arabia. In Washington, then-President Joe Biden and his administration believed they were close to hatching a deal between the Saudis and Israelis. It was all a series of illusions. Netanyahu has refused to establish an inquiry to look into the mistakes he made alongside his army and security chiefs that gave Hamas its opportunity to attack with such deadly effect on 7 October 2023. The century-long conflict between Zionists and Arabs for control of the land between the River Jordan and the Mediterranean was unresolved, festering, and about to explode into a war that looks to be as consequential as its other landmarks, in 1948 and 1967. The Middle East has been transformed since 7 October, and almost two years into the war, the conflict in Gaza is at another inflection point. They were taken by surprise on 7 October when Hamas attacked, and since then Israel has banned international journalists from Gaza to report freely. Palestinian journalists inside the Strip have done valiant work, and nearly 200 have been killed doing their jobs. But key facts are clear. Hamas committed a series of war crimes in the attacks it launched on 7 October, killing 1,200 people, mainly Israeli civilians. Hamas took 251 hostages, of which perhaps 20 who are still being held inside Gaza are believed to be alive. And there is clear evidence that Israel has committed a series of war crimes since then. Israel's list includes the starvation of Gaza's civilians, the failure to protect them during military operations in which Israeli forces killed tens of thousands of innocents, and the wanton destruction of entire towns in a manner that is not proportionate to the military risk Israel faces. Netanyahu and his former defence minister are the subject of arrest warrants for war crimes issued by the International Criminal Court. They insist on their innocence. Israel has also condemned a legal process at the International Court of Justice which alleges that it is committing genocide against Palestinians. Israel denies the accusations, and claims they are antisemitic "blood libels". Israel is running out of friends. Allies who rallied around after the 7 October Hamas attacks have lost patience with Israel's conduct in Gaza. Even Israel's most important ally, Donald Trump, is reported to be losing patience with Netanyahu after being taken by surprise when the Israeli leader ordered the bombing of Damascus – attacking Syria's new regime, which Trump has recognised and encouraged. Other western allies of Israel ran out of patience months ago. Another joint statement, condemning Israel's actions, was signed on 21 July by foreign ministers from the UK, much of the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. They used strong words to describe civilian suffering in Gaza, and the failing and deadly aid distribution system run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) that Israel introduced to replace tried and trusted methods used by the UN and leading global relief groups. "The suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths," the statement said. "The Israeli government's aid delivery model is dangerous, fuels instability and deprives Gazans of human dignity. We condemn the drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians, including children, seeking to meet their most basic needs of water and food. It is horrifying that over 800 Palestinians have been killed while seeking aid. "The Israeli government's denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable. Israel must comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law." David Lammy, Britain's foreign secretary, followed the joint statement with one of his own, using similar language, in the House of Commons in Westminster. It was not enough for Labour MPs, who want strong words to be backed by strong actions. One told me there was "fury" at the government's reluctance to act more decisively. Top of their agenda is recognition of a Palestinian state, which has already been done by a majority of members of the United Nations. The UK and France have discussed doing so jointly, but so far seem to believe the time is not right. Israel's parliament, known as the Knesset, is only days away from its summer recess, which will last until October. That means Benjamin Netanyahu will have a break from the threat of a vote of no confidence from the extremist nationalists in his coalition who oppose a ceasefire in Gaza. His reluctance to negotiate a truce is a result of their threats to quit his government. If Netanyahu lost power in an election, his day of reckoning for his 7 October mistakes - as well as the end of his long running corruption trial - would race towards him. A ceasefire is looking more possible, a chance of survival for Gaza's civilians and for the Israeli hostages who have been prisoners of Hamas for so long. None of that means the conflict will end. The war has taken it to new depths. But if there is a ceasefire there will be another chance to switch from killing to diplomacy. — BBC
Web Release
17 hours ago
- Business
- Web Release
Decarbonizing Retail in KSA: Tamimi Markets and Yellow Door Energy Sign Solar Lease
Tamimi Markets, one of the most prominent and trusted names in Saudi Arabia's retail sector, and Yellow Door Energy, the leading sustainable energy partner for businesses in the Middle East and Africa, have signed a solar lease agreement to provide clean electricity to Tamimi Markets' distribution centers in Jeddah and Dammam. The solar project has a combined capacity of 900 kilowatts-peak (kWp), with 465 kWp allocated to the Jeddah fulfillment center and 435 kWp to two facilities in Dammam. Over 1,500 high-efficiency bifacial solar panels will be installed across approximately 7,200 square meters of rooftop space. The solar power plants are expected to generate 1.5 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy in their first year of operation, equivalent to reducing carbon emissions by 586 metric tons. This initiative directly supports Saudi Arabia's Net Zero by 2060 commitment and aligns with the broader goals of Vision 2030. Bobby Rajendran, CEO of Tamimi Markets, commented: 'Sustainability is embedded in Tamimi Markets' DNA, and today we are walking the talk on sustainability by signing this solar lease with Yellow Door Energy. Together with our solar partner, we will decarbonize our operations, enhance business resilience and support Saudi Arabia's Net Zero by 2060 objective. Our shoppers, employees, and wider network can be proud of the fact that Tamimi Markets, the preferred grocery destination for Saudis, is leading the sustainability journey.' Hisham Alhegelan, CEO Middle East at Yellow Door Energy, shared: 'We are honored to partner with Tamimi Markets on this important solar project. Through the solar lease, significant cost savings and carbon emission reduction will be realized. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to lead the region in its sustainability stewardship, and this important solar project demonstrates this leadership.' Khaled Chebaro, Country Director for KSA at Yellow Door Energy, added: 'We are delighted to support Tamimi Markets and contribute to Saudi Vision 2030. Yellow Door Energy continues to rapidly expand its project portfolio in the Kingdom, helping businesses reduce energy costs and lower carbon emissions. To-date, we have signed five solar leases in Saudi Arabia and look forward to contributing to the Kingdom's Net Zero by 2060 Target.' Construction is already underway, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Under the solar lease agreement, Yellow Door Energy is responsible for financing, designing, constructing, commissioning, operating, and maintaining the solar power plants while Tamimi Supermarkets remains focused on providing the best retail experience for its shoppers. The solar lease model enables Tamimi Supermarkets to enjoy the benefits of clean energy without operational risk, allowing the company to focus on its core business while advancing its sustainability objectives.
Leaders
a day ago
- Business
- Leaders
Apple Arrives in Saudi Arabia with Online Store
Apple has boosted its retail presence in Saudi Arabia through the launch of the Apple Store online and the Apple Store app, according to Apple official website. Both the store and the app offer direct support in Arabia for the first time in the history of Apple. 'We are thrilled to bring the Apple Store online and the Apple Store app to Saudi Arabia, offering customers a new way to explore and shop Apple's extraordinary lineup of products and services,' said Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's Senior Vice President of Retail and People. Now Saudis can shop all Apple's products with extraordinary services from talented team members. By launching the Apple Store online, Apple is opening a new era for Saudi customers to explore its exceptional lineup of products and services. 'Our customers in Saudi Arabia are passionate about the things they can do with technology, and our teams can't wait to connect with customers and help them discover how Apple innovations can meaningfully enrich their daily lives,' O'Brien said. Interestingly, Saudi customers can enjoy a personalized shopping experience and smooth tracking for their orders. Moreover, free engraving is now available in both Arabic and English for the first time ever. Therefore, customers can personalize their AirPods, Apple Pencil, AirTag, and more with text, emoji, and numbers in dual language. Looking ahead, Apple plans to open multiple stores in the Kingdom starting in 2026, including a remarkable location in Diriyah. Related Topics: Apple to Officially Launch Stores in Saudi Arabia in 2025 Apple Highlights Apps Developed by Saudi Tuwaiq's Graduates iPhone is Getting 'Glow' up. What to Expect from Apple's Monday Event Short link :
