Saudi Vision 2030: The Launch of the Saudi Dream Towards the Future
Abdellah Mechnoune
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 was launched as a document of ambition and national renewal, carrying within its lines grand and courageous dreams to reshape the present and the future. This historic vision emerged thanks to the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the insightful, ambitious vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, who launched an unprecedented national project aimed at achieving a comprehensive transformation in the structure of the Saudi economy and society.
First: The Emergence of Vision 2030 and Its Main Pillars
Vision 2030 is not merely a plan; it is a great national project built upon three main pillars:
The Arab and Islamic Depth: As the heart of the Arab and Islamic worlds, the Kingdom assumed the role of leadership and cultural communication.
Investment Power: Saudi Arabia sought to build a diversified and sustainable economy that keeps pace with global developments.
Strategic Geographical Location: Being a hub connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa enhances the Kingdom’s position as a global logistical center.
The vision relies on the Saudi citizen as the most important resource and cornerstone for development, investing natural and acquired resources to create a brighter future.
Second: Achievements of Vision 2030 After Nine Years
After nine years since the launch of Vision 2030, the Kingdom has achieved remarkable progress:
93% of the programs and national strategy indicators were accomplished.
85% of the initiatives were completed, with many goals achieved ahead of schedule.
The Kingdom witnessed a comprehensive economic and developmental transformation across various sectors, contributing to diversifying income sources and increasing global investment attractiveness.
Third: Economic Transformation and Income Diversification
The Kingdom has worked to reduce its reliance on oil by supporting non-oil activities and enhancing the private sector’s role. Tangible progress was also made in supporting the industries of manufacturing, mining, and renewable energy, creating new job opportunities and increasing the GDP.
Fourth: Mega Projects and Vision for the Future
Major projects such as NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea projects are living examples of the Vision’s ambition to build smart and sustainable cities attracting investors and tourists from around the world. The Sovereign Wealth Fund (Public Investment Fund) was developed, and Saudi investments in global markets increased, strengthening the Kingdom’s global economic standing.
Fifth: Serving the Two Holy Mosques and Guests of Allah
Vision 2030 did not neglect its religious mission; it worked to enhance the services provided to pilgrims by improving infrastructure and facilitating procedures to achieve the highest levels of comfort and satisfaction for pilgrims and visitors, according to the finest global standards.
Sixth: Building the Saudi Citizen and Empowering Women
Building the Saudi citizen was a top priority for the Vision, through the development of education, healthcare, and public administration sectors. The Kingdom also witnessed a renaissance in women’s empowerment by integrating them into the labor market and supporting their participation in economic and political fields, contributing to comprehensive societal development.
Seventh: The Kingdom’s New Position on the Global Map
The Kingdom strengthened its international status, becoming a major player in the G20, and consolidated its regional and international relations, establishing a model of close cooperation, notably with Bahrain and neighboring countries.
Eighth: The Third Phase of the Vision and Preparation for Post-2030
Entering the third and final phase, the Kingdom is working to double efforts and accelerate achievements, preparing to shape the features of the “Post-2030” era, with leadership aiming to solidify the Kingdom’s position as a global powerhouse both regionally and internationally.
Ninth: Combating Extremism and Terrorism and Building a Safe Society
To achieve development, it was necessary to uproot extremist ideologies. Saudi Arabia launched pioneering initiatives such as the Etidal Center to promote moderation and tolerance. Education, media, and civil society were developed to be tools for spreading values of dialogue and tolerance, linking national security with comprehensive development.
Tenth: Digital Transformation and Technological Innovation in Vision 2030
Digital transformation was adopted as a key driver of change through the launch of massive e-government initiatives and the promotion of innovation and tech entrepreneurship. An advanced digital infrastructure was built to attract investments, alongside ambitious projects in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, placing Saudi Arabia among the leading countries in these fields.
Conclusion:
Vision 2030 is not just about temporary goals but a sustainable future project, led by the steadfast will of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and the ambitious vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Today, the Kingdom stands tall, presenting to the world a new model of comprehensive development and renewed renaissance, confidently moving toward a brighter future beyond 2030.