Saudi Arabia is reshaping global tourism through Red Sea Global (RSG), a visionary developer leading one of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations. Designed to go beyond sustainability, Red Sea Global aims to actively restore and enhance natural ecosystems while delivering world-class luxury tourism — a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030.

Project Overview

Red Sea Global is responsible for developing landmark destinations along Saudi Arabia’s pristine west coast, including The Red Sea and AMAALA. The projects span an untouched archipelago of islands, desert landscapes, mountains, and coral reefs, positioning the Kingdom as a premier destination for nature-focused, high-end tourism.

The developments are master-planned to balance environmental preservation with premium visitor experiences.

What Is Regenerative Tourism?

Unlike traditional tourism models, regenerative tourism focuses on leaving a destination better than it was before. Red Sea Global applies this approach by:

• Protecting and restoring coral reefs and marine habitats
• Rehabilitating mangroves and coastal ecosystems
• Limiting visitor numbers to reduce environmental impact
• Using eco-friendly design and construction methods

This philosophy ensures long-term ecological and economic sustainability.

Luxury Experiences in Harmony with Nature

Red Sea Global destinations will offer:

1. Ultra-luxury resorts and private villas
2. Wellness retreats and nature-based experiences
3. Marine adventures, diving, and eco-tourism activities
4. Cultural and heritage-inspired hospitality

All developments are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, minimizing visual and ecological disruption.

Sustainability and Innovation Leadership

Red Sea Global is setting new global benchmarks through:

• 100% renewable energy operations
• The world’s largest off-grid renewable energy storage system
• Zero-waste-to-landfill targets
• Advanced water conservation and recycling systems

These initiatives place Saudi Arabia at the forefront of sustainable tourism innovation.

Phased Development and Timeline

The Red Sea destination is being delivered in phases, with initial resorts already welcoming guests and further islands, hotels, and experiences scheduled to open progressively throughout the decade. AMAALA is also advancing toward its phased launch, focusing on wellness, art, and culture.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Red Sea Global is expected to:

1. Create thousands of jobs across tourism and hospitality
2. Support local communities and small businesses
3. Attract high-value international travelers
4. Contribute to environmental research and conservation

The project demonstrates how tourism can drive economic growth while preserving natural heritage.

Conclusion

Red Sea Global represents a new global standard for tourism development. By pioneering regenerative tourism, the project showcases Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental stewardship, innovation, and luxury experiences — proving that economic growth and ecological responsibility can thrive together.

Saudi Arabia’s retail and lifestyle sector continues to evolve under Vision 2030, with major developments reshaping urban experiences across the Kingdom. Among the most anticipated projects is Jawharat Jeddah, a flagship retail and entertainment destination by Cenomi Centers, currently under construction and expected to open toward the end of 2025.

Project Overview

Jawharat Jeddah is being developed as one of the largest and most sophisticated shopping and lifestyle destinations in western Saudi Arabia. Designed to serve both residents and international visitors, the project aims to redefine retail by blending shopping, entertainment, dining, and community spaces into one integrated environment.

Strategically located in north Jeddah, the development benefits from excellent connectivity to major highways, residential districts, the airport, and the Jeddah Corniche, positioning it as a prime destination for high footfall.

Design and Retail Experience

Once completed, Jawharat Jeddah will feature:

1. Hundreds of local and international retail outlets
2. A dedicated luxury retail wing, the first of its kind in Jeddah
3. Flagship stores and brand-first entries to the city
4. Carefully curated lifestyle and experiential zones

The mall’s design emphasizes open spaces, natural light, and seamless navigation, creating a modern and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Dining, Entertainment, and Leisure

Beyond shopping, Jawharat Jeddah is planned as a full lifestyle destination. Key highlights include:

• Multiple food and beverage districts offering global and regional cuisines
• Entertainment venues suitable for families and young visitors
• Flexible spaces for events, exhibitions, and seasonal attractions

These features are expected to make the destination a year-round social hub for the city.

Sustainability and Innovation

Sustainability is a central element of the project. Jawharat Jeddah is targeting LEED Gold certification, incorporating:

• Energy-efficient building systems
• Water-saving technologies
• Environmentally responsible construction materials

These initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s broader environmental goals and sustainable urban development strategy.

Construction Status and Expected Opening

Construction and leasing activities are progressing steadily, with strong interest from leading global brands. The project is not yet open and remains under development, with an anticipated launch in Vision 2030, subject to construction timelines and final approvals.

Economic and Social Impact

Upon completion, Jawharat Jeddah is expected to:

• Generate thousands of employment opportunities
• Strengthen Jeddah’s retail and tourism sectors
• Enhance the city’s appeal as a regional lifestyle destination

The development will play a significant role in supporting local businesses while attracting international visitors.

Conclusion

Jawharat Jeddah represents a major step forward in Saudi Arabia’s retail evolution. With its scale, design, and focus on experience-driven retail, the project is set to become a defining landmark for Jeddah under Vision 2030 — reflecting the Kingdom’s vision for modern, sustainable, and vibrant urban spaces.

What Is Jeddah Tower?

Jeddah Tower is a super-tall skyscraper under development in Jeddah and is designed to become the world’s tallest building, surpassing Dubai’s Burj Khalifa.

Key Facts

• Planned Height: Over 1,000 meters
• Floors: 160+
• Location: Jeddah Economic City, north of Jeddah
• Purpose: Mixed-use (residential, hotel, offices, observation decks)

The tower is designed by internationally renowned architect Adrian Smith, the same designer behind Burj Khalifa, making it a global architectural statement even before completion.

Construction Status and Recent Developments

After facing delays due to financial and contractual challenges, construction of Jeddah Tower has resumed, marking a renewed commitment to completing the landmark project.

Recent progress includes:

• Restart of structural works
• Re-engagement of contractors and suppliers
• Updated timelines targeting completion later this decade

The revival of the tower has restored confidence in one of Saudi Arabia’s most anticipated developments.

Jeddah Economic City: Beyond the Tower

Jeddah Tower is the centerpiece of the much larger Jeddah Economic City, a mega mixed-use urban development planned to transform a vast area of northern Jeddah.

Key Components of JEC

1. Residential neighborhoods
2. Commercial and business districts
3. Retail and entertainment zones
4. Hotels and tourism facilities
5. Schools, hospitals, and public spaces

JEC is designed as a self-sustaining city, supporting both residents and businesses while easing pressure on Jeddah’s existing urban infrastructure.

Economic and Strategic Importance

The Jeddah Tower and JEC project play a vital role in:

• Attracting foreign investment
• Creating thousands of jobs
• Boosting tourism and global visibility
• Supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification

Located near the Red Sea coast, the project also strengthens Jeddah’s position as a gateway city for trade, tourism, and pilgrimage.

Engineering and Design Challenges

Building a structure of this scale involves complex challenges, including:

1. Wind and structural stability at extreme heights
2. Advanced elevator and safety systems
3. High-performance materials and concrete technology
4. Sustainable energy and water management

Overcoming these challenges places Jeddah Tower among the most ambitious engineering projects in the world.

Looking Ahead

With construction back on track, Jeddah Tower is expected to once again become a focal point of global attention. As Jeddah Economic City develops around it, the project has the potential to redefine urban living and commercial activity in western Saudi Arabia.

Final Thought

Jeddah Tower and Jeddah Economic City are more than just construction projects — they are symbols of Saudi Arabia’s determination to shape the future of global architecture and build cities that stand tall on the world stage.

What Is Rise Tower?

Rise Tower is a proposed super-skyscraper designed to surpass all existing height records. Its key specifications include:

• Height: ~2,000 meters (6,562 ft), potentially the tallest building on Earth
• Floors: ~678 levels
• Estimated Cost: ~$5 billion
• Location: North Riyadh, North Pole District
• Developer: Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)
• Projected Timeline: Planning phase ongoing, with potential construction starting around 2026

The tower is part of a broader masterplan for a futuristic business and cultural district, intended to transform northern Riyadh into a global hub for innovation.

Vision Behind the Project

Rise Tower is not just about breaking records — it’s a statement of Saudi Arabia’s ambition under Vision 2030. The tower aims to:

1. Showcase world-class engineering and architectural innovation
2. Attract international investment and global attention
3. Serve as a catalyst for economic and urban development
4. Set a new standard for sustainable vertical living

Global firms, including Foster + Partners, have been involved in conceptualizing the tower, emphasizing a design that blends functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics.

Architectural and Engineering Challenges

Building a 2-kilometer skyscraper presents unprecedented challenges:

• Structural stability and load management
• Wind resistance and aerodynamics at extreme heights
• Vertical transportation: elevators spanning thousands of meters
• Sustainable energy solutions for cooling and electricity
• Material strength to support massive weight

Successfully overcoming these challenges would position Rise Tower at the frontier of architectural achievement.

Symbolism and Global Impact

Rise Tower is envisioned as more than a building:

1. A tourist destination with observation decks, cultural spaces, and luxury amenities
2. A business hub fostering innovation and collaboration
3. An economic catalyst for Riyadh and the Kingdom
4. A technological testbed for sustainable, high-rise urban living

It complements other Saudi megaprojects like NEOM and The Line, reinforcing the Kingdom’s global ambitions.

Next Steps

Currently, Rise Tower is in the planning and proposal stage, with design development and contract bids ongoing. Construction, if approved, could start within the next few years, making it one of the most anticipated megastructures worldwide.

Final Thought

Rise Tower isn’t just about height — it’s a symbol of human innovation, a beacon for future urban living, and a testament to Saudi Arabia’s bold vision for the 21st century.

Saudi Arabia has taken another bold step toward building a knowledge-driven economy with the launch of the “Mostaqbali” program, a groundbreaking national initiative that aims to train 50,000 Saudi citizens in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital skills.

This visionary move strengthens the Kingdom’s pursuit of Vision 2030, placing innovation, digital transformation, and youth empowerment at the core of its economic development.

What Is the Mostaqbali Program?

The word Mostaqbali translates to “My Future”, reflecting the program’s mission to equip Saudi citizens with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Developed by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) in collaboration with Oracle and the National eLearning Center (NeLC), the initiative leverages the FutureX platform to deliver specialized online learning experiences accessible across the Kingdom.

 Program Highlights

 Why the Program Matters

1. Bridging the Skills Gap
   The initiative addresses the growing demand for tech and AI specialists, ensuring that Saudi citizens are prepared for the jobs of the future.
2. Supporting Vision 2030
   By investing in digital education, the Kingdom moves closer to achieving its goal of becoming a regional hub for innovation and technology.
3. Encouraging Gender Inclusion
   Women are strongly encouraged to participate, reflecting the government’s focus on empowerment and equal opportunity.
4. Building a Competitive Workforce
   Upskilling the local population helps reduce reliance on foreign expertise and creates a self-sustaining digital ecosystem.

 Strategic Impact

The Mostaqbali program represents more than just training — it’s a national transformation strategy.
By equipping tens of thousands of Saudis with AI and digital skills, the initiative will:

• Foster innovation and entrepreneurship across industries
• Boost employment opportunities in high-demand tech sectors
• Strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading digital economy in the Middle East
• Encourage global companies to invest in the Kingdom’s growing digital landscape

 Challenges and the Road Ahead

While the potential is immense, successful execution will depend on:

• Ensuring equal access to participants in remote areas
• Maintaining high-quality instruction at a large scale
• Providing career pathways after certification
• Continuously updating curriculum to match evolving technology trends

The long-term success of Mostaqbali will be measured by how effectively these new skills translate into sustainable job growth and innovation-led industries.

The Bigger Picture

The Mostaqbali initiative perfectly embodies the spirit of Vision 2030 — a Saudi Arabia that is globally competitive, digitally empowered, and driven by the creativity and talent of its people.

By prioritizing digital literacy and AI education, the Kingdom is not just adapting to the future — it’s defining it.

 Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia’s launch of Mostaqbali is a powerful statement:
The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.

Through this initiative, the Kingdom is empowering its citizens with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead in the digital age — transforming both lives and the nation’s technological landscape.

In a groundbreaking move toward shaping the nation’s digital future, The Energy & Water Academy (EWA) has announced the launch of Saudi Arabia’s first industry-integrated diploma in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Developed in collaboration with DataVolt and Innovatics, this initiative marks a key milestone in aligning education with the evolving demands of technology-driven industries.

About the Initiative

The new diploma aims to equip Saudi students and professionals with practical, industry-relevant skills in areas such as:

• Machine Learning
• Big Data Analytics
• Artificial Intelligence Applications
• Data Engineering and Modeling

Unlike traditional academic programs, this diploma integrates real-world training and industry projects into its curriculum. Students will gain hands-on experience working alongside experts from DataVolt and Innovatics, bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical implementation.

Empowering the Next Generation of Saudi Talent

This initiative directly supports Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes innovation, technology adoption, and workforce development. By launching this program, EWA aims to:

• Create a skilled local workforce ready for the digital economy.
• Reduce dependence on foreign expertise in emerging technologies.
• Prepare Saudi youth to lead the transformation of the energy and water sectors through AI and data-driven solutions.

Through a combination of academic rigor and professional training, participants will be prepared for high-impact roles in industries where data and technology are reshaping the future.

Industry Collaboration: A Key to Success

The partnership with DataVolt and Innovatics ensures that this diploma program stays aligned with the latest technological trends and industry needs. Students will not only learn theory but also participate in live projects, gaining exposure to real datasets, analytical tools, and AI models currently used in the field.

This industry-integrated approach represents a modern educational model — one that turns knowledge into applied innovation and accelerates the journey from learning to employment.

What It Means for Saudi Arabia’s Future

The launch of this diploma reflects a clear commitment to building a knowledge-based economy powered by innovation and data. As industries across the Kingdom increasingly adopt AI and data analytics, the demand for trained professionals will continue to rise.

By nurturing homegrown talent, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a regional leader in data science and AI, ready to harness technology for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

Final Insight

The introduction of the country’s first industry-integrated Data Science & AI diploma is more than an educational achievement — it’s a vision of the future. A future where technology, talent, and innovation work hand in hand to drive national progress.

Saudi Arabia is not just preparing its youth for tomorrow — it’s empowering them to build it.

Introduction

Canada and Saudi Arabia are strengthening ties in the field of innovation, technology, and investment. From September 28 to 30, 2025, Canada’s Innovation Delegation visited Riyadh to explore partnerships that go beyond traditional trade. The initiative, organized by Inovia Capital and the Embassy of Canada, brought together Canadian startups, venture capital firms, and research institutions to connect with Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding innovation ecosystem.

Why Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a massive transformation under Vision 2030, focusing on:

• Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation
• Green Technology and Smart Cities
• Investment Diversification
• Startup and Talent Development

The Kingdom’s commitment to technology makes it a natural partner for Canada, which is already recognized as a global leader in AI and research.

Key Engagements

During the delegation’s visit, Canadian representatives met with several influential Saudi entities, including:

• Public Investment Fund (PIF)
• Neom and Sanabil Investments
• King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)
• The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology
• The Garage (Saudi’s major innovation hub)

This created a platform for collaboration on projects ranging from enterprise AI to smart city initiatives.

Goals of the Delegation

1. Build Innovation Bridges – Connect Canadian expertise in AI and venture capital with Saudi Arabia’s emerging innovation landscape.
2. Support Responsible Growth – Align Canadian G7 priorities on ethical AI and digital governance with Vision 2030 goals.
3. Diversify Partnerships – Shift Canada–Saudi relations from resource trade to knowledge-driven sectors.
4. Nurture Talent Exchange – Explore opportunities for research collaboration and skilled workforce development.

Opportunities and Challenges

Opportunities:

• Expansion into the Middle Eastern market for Canadian firms.
• Saudi access to Canadian expertise in AI, machine learning, and R&D.
• Potential for joint investments and startup scaling.

Challenges:

• Aligning regulations and data governance frameworks.
• Adapting to cultural and business differences.
• Ensuring projects are inclusive, sustainable, and impactful.

What This Means Going Forward

This visit represents a strategic shift in global tech diplomacy, with Canada and Saudi Arabia working to establish long-term partnerships. Success will be measured through:

• Launch of joint pilot projects
• Investment commitments from both sides
• Growth in academic and research collaborations
• Development of talent pipelines and innovation hubs

Conclusion

The Canada–Saudi Arabia Innovation Delegation is more than a diplomatic mission—it is a bridge between two countries aiming to lead the future of technology. By combining Canada’s expertise in AI and Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, both nations are poised to create a lasting impact on the global innovation landscape.

Introduction

The Eastern Province Municipality has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the Silver Award for Best Use of Artificial Intelligence in Sustainability at the Gulf Sustainability Awards 2025. This recognition highlights the region’s commitment to harnessing advanced technologies to build smarter, greener, and more efficient cities.

Driving Innovation Through AI

At the core of this success is the municipality’s GSAT™ 25 smart monitoring system, a comprehensive platform that integrates:

• Internet of Things (IoT) devices
• Drone surveillance
• High-definition video analytics
• Geospatial information systems
• AI and machine learning powered by MLOps practices

This innovative system enables real-time monitoring of urban operations, improves efficiency in service delivery, and supports decision-making with data-driven insights.

Recognition of Visionary Leadership

Mayor Fahad Al-Jubeir credited the region’s digital transformation team for their tireless efforts in leading this initiative. Their work reflects the municipality’s broader vision of creating a smart, sustainable, and citizen-focused environment that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

Why This Award Matters

Winning the Silver Award is more than just a badge of honor — it represents a shift towards sustainable urban governance. Key outcomes include:

• Smarter resource management with predictive maintenance and rapid response to incidents
• Environmental sustainability by integrating AI with ecological data to minimize waste and emissions
• Enhanced citizen services through faster, more transparent digital solutions

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While the achievement is significant, challenges remain. The municipality must ensure:

• Strong cybersecurity and data governance
• Continued investment in digital infrastructure
• Active community engagement and trust building

Looking forward, the Eastern Province aims to expand AI applications into traffic management, energy optimization, and waste collection, making the region a role model for smart cities worldwide.

Conclusion

The Eastern Province’s Silver Award for AI in sustainability underscores the power of technology in shaping a smarter, greener future. By integrating innovation with sustainability, the region is setting a new standard for municipal governance — not just in Saudi Arabia, but across the Gulf and beyond.

This recognition is a stepping stone toward a future where cities are intelligent, efficient, and truly sustainable.

What the Agreement Covers

The deal is more than just a headline — it includes:

• Introduction of eVTOL air taxis for passenger and cargo transport.
• Pilot trials and testing to ensure safety and efficiency.
•  Exploration of local manufacturing opportunities within Saudi Arabia.
•  Development of a regulatory framework for integrating flying cars into Saudi airspace.

Why It Matters

This development isn’t just about luxury — it has real impact:

1. Faster Urban Travel
   Air taxis can significantly reduce commute times in congested cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.
2. Boost to Tourism
   Tourists may soon enjoy futuristic aerial rides over landmarks and attractions.
3. Green and Sustainable
   Since eVTOLs are electric, they support the Kingdom’s efforts to cut carbon emissions and promote renewable energy.
4. Global Leadership
   By adopting flying cars early, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a pioneer in future mobility solutions.

The Road Ahead

The project will first go through regulatory approvals and trial phases. If successful, commercial operations could begin in the coming years — making flying cars a normal sight in Saudi skies by the early 2030s.

Conclusion

From smart cities like NEOM to futuristic air mobility, Saudi Arabia is not just preparing for the future — it’s creating it. This deal with EHang shows the Kingdom’s determination to lead in innovation, sustainability, and advanced mobility solutions under Vision 2030.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Gulf Research Center (GRC) recently hosted a high-level roundtable on “Saudi-German Relations”, bringing together diplomats, policymakers, and experts to strengthen dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Germany. The event highlighted opportunities for greater cooperation across diplomacy, trade, and policy.

Key Attendees

The roundtable, held at the GRC’s Riyadh office, featured distinguished participants including:

• Dr. Geza Andreas von Geyr, State Secretary of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, leading the German delegation.
• Experts, academics, and stakeholders with a strong focus on Saudi-German ties.
• Representatives from the Gulf Research Center, serving as hosts and facilitators of the discussion.

Topics of Discussion

1. Diplomatic Relations

The dialogue emphasized the growing importance of Saudi-German diplomacy. Germany’s role in European affairs and Saudi Arabia’s strategic leadership in the Gulf were identified as key areas of mutual interest.

2. Economic & Trade Partnerships

Participants explored opportunities for expanding trade, investment, and industrial collaboration. With Saudi Arabia advancing its Vision 2030 diversification plans and Germany’s global reputation for technology and manufacturing, both nations see strong potential for economic synergy.

3. Strategic & Political Cooperation

The roundtable also examined ways to align on regional and global issues, from political stability in the Middle East to energy security and climate change.

Why This Matters

This event reflects more than just diplomatic courtesy — it marks a growing institutionalization of Saudi-German relations. Key implications include:

• Strengthened Bilateral Momentum – A clear sign of rising cooperation between Riyadh and Berlin.
• Shaping Policy & Partnerships – A platform to build joint initiatives in areas such as energy transition, technology, and security.
• Regional & Global Impact – Deeper Saudi-German collaboration could influence broader Middle East–Europe relations.

Conclusion

The Saudi-German roundtable hosted by the Gulf Research Center demonstrates how dialogue is evolving into structured, strategic cooperation. Both countries are looking beyond traditional diplomacy, aiming to build long-term partnerships across diplomacy, economy, and global policy.

As Saudi Arabia continues its modernization under Vision 2030 and Germany seeks stronger engagement in the Middle East, this roundtable lays a solid foundation for collaboration that benefits not just the two nations, but also the wider region.