Saudi Arabia: A Transformative Journey Towards Progress
In the heart of the Middle East, nestled between ancient traditions and a vision for the future, lies the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Just last week, on September 23, the nation celebrated its 93rd National Day under the banner of “We Dream and We Achieve.” My recent journey to this thriving nation left an indelible impression on me. I stood in awe as I witnessed the winds of change sweeping through its cities, ushering in a wave of innovation, the empowerment of women and youth, and substantial economic growth. Within this article, I aim to share the experiences and insights gleaned from my visit to Saudi Arabia—a nation not only cherishing its rich cultural heritage but also charting a dynamic and promising path forward.
Saudi Arabia has long been synonymous with oil production, but today it is diversifying its economy at an astonishing pace. The nation is embracing a post-oil era, with a focus on various sectors, including tourism, technology, and academia. The ambitious Vision 2030 plan, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a global economic powerhouse. During my visit, I witnessed firsthand the construction of new buildings and houses, the development of knowledge cities, and the rise of modern malls, all signs of a rapidly evolving economy.
Saudi Arabia is gradually opening its doors to the world, and it’s quickly becoming a sought-after tourism destination. The country’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural treasures are drawing travelers from across the globe. My visit to Makkah and Madina revealed a profound sense of spirituality, but I also explored the country’s natural beauty, from the mesmerizing Red Sea coastline to the stunning desert landscapes. With the launch of the e-visa program, the nation is welcoming tourists with open arms, promising unforgettable experiences.
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in education and research, establishing itself as a hub for academic excellence in the region. The development of knowledge cities and partnerships with prestigious international universities are paving the way for Saudi students to excel on the global stage. I had the privilege of visiting some of these institutions and was impressed by their commitment to fostering innovation and knowledge-sharing.
The Kingdom is not just embracing technological advancements; it’s also actively driving innovation. My journey on the fast train from Makkah to Madina showcased the nation’s commitment to modern infrastructure and transportation. The high-speed train provided a seamless and comfortable travel experience, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s readiness to adopt cutting-edge technologies.
Beyond the rapid development and progress, what truly stands out in Saudi Arabia is the warmth and hospitality of its people. From the moment I arrived at the airport to my departure, I was greeted with genuine kindness and a sense of being in a second home. The Saudi people take great pride in welcoming visitors, making every effort to ensure their stay is memorable.
Under the visionary leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud, Saudi Arabia embarked on a transformative journey towards a brighter future with the launch of Vision 2030. This visionary roadmap, conceived by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, harnesses the nation’s God-given strengths, including its strategic location, investment power, and its central role in the Arab and Islamic worlds. The commitment of Saudi leadership to this vision is unwavering, as they strive to realize ambitious goals and unlock the nation’s full potential.
Since the inception of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has laid a robust foundation for success by implementing unprecedented reforms across the public sector, economy, and society as a whole. Despite facing challenges along the way, the nation has gained invaluable experiences, strengthening its determination to achieve its goals. These collective efforts have led to improved government efficiency, created new growth and investment opportunities, enhanced global engagement, and ultimately improved the quality of life for Saudi citizens. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of the entire Saudi population.
As Saudi Arabia continues on its transformational journey, it remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving the goals set for 2030. The nation is focused on empowering its citizens and businesses to reach their full potential, diversifying the economy, nurturing local content, and fostering innovative growth opportunities. This will be achieved by cultivating a favorable environment for both local and foreign investments, along with the development and unlocking of new sectors through the Public Investment Fund.
As a global youth leader, I continually find joy in connecting with young individuals from around the globe. During my visit to the Kingdom, I had the unique privilege of engaging with Saudi Arabia’s youth, whom I found to be remarkably patriotic, innovative, friendly, and deeply committed to both the advancement of their country and the realization of Vision 2030 and the global development goals set forth in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their participation in various international forums.
The Saudi youth, often referred to as the nation’s “shakers and movers,” are at the forefront of the transformation taking place. Their dedication to Saudi Arabia’s progress is palpable. Whether it’s in entrepreneurship, technology, arts, or community service, young Saudis are making their presence felt. Their innovative spirit and determination to drive change are commendable, reflecting a deep commitment to their homeland.
Moreover, the Saudi youth are not limited to national boundaries. They are actively engaged in global dialogues and initiatives, representing their country at various multilateral platforms. Their contributions to the global development agenda, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), are noteworthy. These young Saudi leaders are not just shaping the future of their nation but are also actively contributing to the betterment of the world.
My recent trip to Saudi Arabia was a journey of discovery and transformation. The nation is evolving at a remarkable pace, with a clear vision for a brighter future. Saudi Arabia’s diversifying economy, commitment to youth and women’s empowerment, emergence as a tourism destination, focus on academic excellence, and adoption of emerging technologies all point to a nation on the cusp of greatness. What struck me most, however, was the genuine hospitality and warmth of its people, leaving me with lasting memories of a land that is both ancient and futuristic. As I reflect on my visit, I am left with the conviction that Saudi Arabia’s journey towards progress is not only impressive but also an inspiration for the world.
