Rebooting the Kingdom: How Vision 2030 is fueling a smart, sustainable Saudi Arabia

The rise of alternate fuels, global geopolitical shifts, and fluctuating oil prices have driven Saudi Arabia to rethink its economic future. Vision 2030 is the country’s ambitious blueprint for diversifying beyond oil and positioning itself as a global economic powerhouse. Oil accounts for more than half of its revenue and nearly 30% of its GDP. Reducing its reliance on the oil economy is paramount for its growing population and political might.

Sunrise Sectors: Shaping a Non-Oil Economy

Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification is gaining momentum, with the non-oil sector forecasted to grow by 4.4% in 2025. Key drivers include local manufacturing, SMEs, and digital commerce. Hospitality, transport, communication, and construction continue to expand, contributing to a projected overall GDP growth of over 2%. While oil remains a core revenue source, geopolitical dynamics will influence demand and pricing. Tourism is another major focus, bolstered by Saudi Arabia’s investments in sports and entertainment, aggressive marketing campaigns, and a new emphasis on attracting global visitors.

Cultural Diversity and Economic Incentives

Media, entertainment, and sports are central to Vision 2030’s strategy for fostering cultural engagement and economic growth. The Sovereign Wealth Fund’s heavy investment in sports, including ownership of international sports IPs, aims to create local opportunities and enhance Saudi Arabia’s global standing. The nation has also seen a significant drop in unemployment—down to 7% in Q4 2024 from 12.3% in 2016—driven by business-friendly policies. Economic special zones and financial incentives for SMEs are fuelling entrepreneurship, with over 1.27 million SMEs registered in 2023, boosting strong investor confidence.

Economic special zones and financial incentives for SMEs are fuelling entrepreneurship, with over 1.27 million SMEs registered in 2023, boosting strong investor confidence

Raising the Gender Bar

Legal amendments have empowered women with greater autonomy in decision-making. In 2017, the driving ban was lifted. The female participation has increased to 34.4%, while women now own and operate approximately 45% of SMEs. In 2019, the appointment of Her Royal Highness Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud as ambassador to the United States was significant, as she became the first female ambassador in Saudi Arabia’s history.

The Digital Revolution

Rapid strides in urban development, with mega-projects like NEOM, Diriyah, Jeddah Central, and King Salman International Airport, are driving growth in tourism, technology, and media. The smart city sector alone is projected to generate $562.55 million in revenue by 2025. To enhance digital governance, Saudi Arabia has secured the 4th spot in the UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2024. The National Transformation Program (NTP) leads the country’s digital evolution, supported by a $1.9 billion investment in AI, strengthening its position as a tech-driven economy.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is a bold attempt to future-proof its economy, balancing tradition with transformation. By leveraging technology, diversifying revenue streams, and fostering entrepreneurship, the kingdom is writing a new economic narrative. However, success hinges on sustained policy execution, geopolitical stability, and continued investment in human capital. In an increasingly polarised world, Saudi Arabia’s ability to navigate global shifts while staying true to its economic ambitions will define its standing in the coming times.