Grand designs: are Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure plans too ambitious?

Grand designs: are Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure plans too ambitious?

Saudi Arabia has announced a trillion-dollar pipeline of infrastructure projects aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil and positioning the kingdom as a global hub for investment and logistics. The development agenda has created opportunities in a range of new areas such as smart cities, tourism and clean energy. But while the country is telling the world that it’s open for business, the plans are beset by challenges: low levels of foreign direct investment and shaky investor confidence coupled with corporate financing constraints will require new approaches in politics and governance. 

UAE & Saudi Arabia: economic diversification through SMART tech

UAE & Saudi Arabia: economic diversification through SMART tech

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are focusing on using advanced technology to foster economic growth as part of their broader development plans. The success of these initiatives will depend heavily on their ability to attract foreign investment. The UAE stands on a strong footing in this regard, while Saudi Arabia will need to make considerable progress in business environment reform and improving human capital.