From Oil Wealth to Knowledge Power: How Saudi Arabia Is Redefining Economic Sovereignty

  

The Rise of a Knowledge-Based Economy

In the heart of **RIYADH, Saudi Arabia**, a profound economic transformation is unfolding. As explored in the analytical article published in *Asharq Al-Awsat* titled *"How is Saudi Arabia Redefining Wealth and Economic Sovereignty?"*, writer Faisal Abu Zaki paints a vivid picture of a Kingdom steering away from its historical reliance on oil. Under *Saudi Vision 2030*, the shift to an economy driven by knowledge, advanced technology, and empowered citizens is more than an ambition — it is becoming a reality.  

This transition is visible in hard numbers. Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy now accounts for over 57% of GDP as of the first quarter of 2025. Furthermore, non-oil revenues surged from SAR 164 billion in 2015 to an impressive SAR 502 billion in 2024. These statistics are not merely milestones; they are proof of the success of strategic diversification policies implemented by the Ministry of Finance and its specialized centers. The Kingdom is cultivating wealth that extends beyond its natural resources, investing heavily in human capital, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and cutting-edge sectors like semiconductors.  

Sovereignty Through Strategic Vision

Economic sovereignty in today’s Saudi Arabia is about more than controlling resources. As Faisal Abu Zaki highlights, it is also about controlling the narrative of growth — making domestic financial decisions that strengthen long-term sustainability while remaining resilient to external market volatility. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) spearheads this approach, expanding into future-oriented industries that promise enduring prosperity.  

Meanwhile, the fiscal and financial policies guided by the Ministry of Finance and the National Debt Management Center (NDMC) provide a stable backbone for responsible growth. These measures ensure fiscal discipline and protect against economic shocks. This stability has had a tangible social impact: unemployment dropped to just 3.2%, while women’s participation in the workforce rose to over 36%. The Kingdom’s “new wealth” lies in its people — their skills, creativity, and innovation — forming the foundation of an economy built not on oil rent, but on intellectual capital and sustainable vision. 

Empowering a Financially Conscious Society

Communication & Financial Knowledge (Mutamem) recognizes the importance of public awareness in sustaining this transformation. By promoting financial literacy through its initiatives, the Center equips citizens with the tools to navigate and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s evolving economic landscape. This helps cement a culture of financial responsibility aligned with *Saudi Vision 2030*.  

Ultimately, the Kingdom’s journey showcases a remarkable blend of ambition and pragmatism. Through strategic investments, disciplined policies, and empowered citizens, Saudi Arabia is carving a distinctive path toward an economy rooted in knowledge production. In doing so, it sets a precedent for redefining wealth and economic sovereignty in the 21st century. 

[Comm. & Financial Knowledge Center](https://cfkc.gov.sa) – **@CFKC_KSA**  

The Dawn of Expo 2030 Riyadh: A Vision for a Transformative Future

In the heart of Saudi Arabia, a monumental event is on the horizon that promises to reshape not only the capital city of Riyadh but also the global landscape of innovation, culture, and sustainable tourism. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia has officially announced the launch of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Company (ERC), a wholly owned subsidiary dedicated to building and operating the facilities for Saudi Arabia's first-ever World Expo. This ambitious project aims to preserve the legacy of this landmark event while driving economic diversification and urban innovation in line with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030.

Envisioning a New Era: The Masterplan of Expo 2030 Riyadh

The masterplan for Expo 2030 Riyadh spans an impressive 6 million square meters, establishing it as one of the largest World Expo sites ever conceived. Strategically located to the north of the city, this expansive area lies in close proximity to the future King Salman International Airport. This positioning not only enhances accessibility but also ensures direct connections to various landmarks throughout the Saudi capital. Thus, the site is poised to attract more than 40 million visits, positioning Riyadh as a vibrant hub for international business and tourism.

Moreover, the vision for Expo 2030 transcends the duration of the event itself, which will run from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031. Following the Expo, ERC intends to transform the gated area into a dynamic global village, fostering a multicultural hub that promotes retail, food, and beverage offerings. This ambitious undertaking also aims to create an international residential community equipped with world-class amenities, setting new standards in sustainable tourism and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

The economic implications of this project are staggering. During its construction phases, the Expo is projected to contribute approximately $64 billion to Saudi Arabia's GDP while generating around 171,000 direct and indirect jobs. Once operational, it is expected to continue making a significant economic impact, contributing approximately $5.6 billion to the GDP. These figures underscore the potential of Expo 2030 Riyadh to serve as a catalyst for economic growth and diversification in the Kingdom.

Transformational Partnerships: The Role of PIF and ERC

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) continues to play a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia's economic transformation. With a strategic mandate to achieve substantial economic impact while securing sustainable returns, PIF has emerged as one of the world's most influential investors. The establishment of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Company aligns seamlessly with PIF's local real estate strategy, which seeks to drive economic transformation and urban innovation. Saad Alkroud, Head of the Local Real Estate Investment Division at PIF, emphasizes this alignment, stating that ERC benefits from PIF's diverse local and global ecosystem.

ERC is not merely a construction entity; it is a harbinger of cultural programming and event management that will partner with both local and global private sectors. This collaborative approach ensures that the Expo will not only showcase the best of Saudi culture but also invite international participation, fostering opportunities for long-term business and investment growth. Countries participating in Expo 2030 Riyadh will have the option to build permanent pavilions, further solidifying their presence and contributions to the event's legacy.

Expo 2030 Riyadh represents a transformative vision that aligns with Saudi Arabia's ambitious goals under Vision 2030. As the city prepares to host this monumental event, it stands at the forefront of a global movement towards sustainability, innovation, and cultural exchange. The Expo is not merely an event; it is a manifestation of a future where urban landscapes are redefined, economies are diversified, and communities thrive in a sustainable manner. With the leadership of PIF and the establishment of ERC, the countdown to Expo 2030 Riyadh marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in the Kingdom's history, one that promises to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.