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**  

Power Every Mile, Save Every Day — The RD6 PHEV Ignites Riddara’s Global Drive

Since the first batch of RD6 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) units were shipped from China to the Middle East in August 2025, the model has been rapidly entering key markets across Asia-Pacific and South America, accelerating its global rollout. As the only pickup model in Geely's new energy portfolio, it expands Riddara's international presence and represents the full implementation of the brand's hybrid strategy. Powered by Geely's advanced EM-P Super Hybrid system, it injects greater efficiency and intelligence into Riddara's global expansion.

Built on Geely's industry-leading EM-P Hybrid system, the RD6 PHEV has undergone over 40 million kilometers and 400,000 hours of endurance testing, earning China's first "S-Class Hybrid System Reliability Certification." The EM-P system integrates next-generation power, efficiency, and safety—featuring the industry's first 3DHT hybrid architecture, an integrated triple-drive system with 97% efficiency and a 1.5T engine delivering 44.26% thermal efficiency, plus a world-first hybrid safety redundancy design for extreme reliability.

Practical Efficiency for Everyday Use

First, the RD6 PHEV delivers tangible economic benefits to families and businesses. With NEDC fuel consumption as low as 1.5 L/100 km in hybrid mode and 6.7 L/100 km in charge-depletion mode, the pickup stretches budgets and reduces fuel stops. Consequently, drivers enjoy over 1,000 km of range, which significantly cuts travel costs in high-energy-price Asia-Pacific markets and eases range anxiety for island and remote-area drivers.

Moreover, the vehicle’s 3.3 kW intelligent external power supply transforms it into a mobile energy hub. For instance, it supports farm operations in Asia-Pacific and oilfield inspections in the Middle East, while also powering coastal camping and outdoor events. Thus, the RD6 PHEV blends daily practicality with versatile utility.

Performance, Safety, and Global Reach

In addition to efficiency, the RD6 PHEV delivers robust performance. It produces 260 kW and 914 N·m torque, accelerates 0–100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, and sustains 100% gradeability. Therefore, it matches traditional fuel pickups with an 875 kg rated load and 2.5-ton towing capacity, serving farm transport, city logistics, and industrial transfer needs across diverse terrains in South America and high-altitude regions.

Finally, safety and durability underline the design. With 70% ultra-high-strength steel, One-Box braking (39 m full load), and a battery protected by eight technologies plus IP68 sealing, the RD6 PHEV resists humid coastal salt-spray conditions in Asia-Pacific and sand-dust extremes in the Middle East. As China's leading new energy pickup brand, Geely Riddara has expanded to over 60 countries and ranked No.1 in NEV pickup sales for three consecutive years. The global launch of the RD6 PHEV marks a key milestone in Riddara's global strategy. Moving forward, Riddara will continue advancing the EM-P hybrid system to deliver efficient, intelligent, and sustainable products for users worldwide.

Note

Vehicle specifications and configurations may vary across different countries and regions.

Revealing the Ocean’s Hidden Symphony: World Unseen 2.0 Dives Into the UAE

A Wave of Change Arrives in Dubai

  

Dubai, UAE – Following the successful EMEA launch of **World Unseen 2.0**, the much-anticipated ocean conservation initiative has finally made waves in the Middle East. Its arrival marks a significant milestone in the mission to uncover the ocean’s untold stories through the magic of technology, art, and purposeful partnerships. Riding the momentum of its previous achievements, this regional debut shines a light on the fragile yet awe-inspiring ecosystems beneath the surface, inviting residents, divers, and young minds into a realm often overlooked.  

With the UAE’s introduction, the campaign partners with **Freestyle Divers** for **Project REEFrame**, mobilizing local communities to act boldly for marine protection. Driven by the urgency of coral reef restoration, the project does more than raise awareness—it delivers interactive experiences, educational outreach, and visual storytelling that connect people deeply with the hidden treasures of our underwater world. In every image captured and every reef restored, the story of resilience takes center stage.  

Rebuilding the Heartbeat of the Reef

Coral reefs are more than vibrant underwater gardens—they are living fortresses against coastal erosion, habitats for countless marine species, and essential pillars of the UAE’s blue economy. Yet, climate change, coral bleaching, and pollution continue to threaten their existence. In response, World Unseen 2.0 has joined forces with Coral Spawning International, Nature Seychelles, and local authorities to establish one of the region’s most ambitious restoration projects at a 40,000 m² site in Dibba, Al Fujairah.  

Through Canon’s sponsorship and imaging technology, the initiative gains powerful tools for scientific monitoring and documentation. High-quality underwater cameras capture the stunning rebirth of coral fragments, while precise measurements track growth, survival rates, and biodiversity recruitment. This data not only fuels science but also inspires the community through exhibitions and storytelling. Combined with workshops, training programs, and volunteer opportunities, each restored coral reef becomes a shared triumph—proof that collective action can reverse damage and revive ecosystems for generations to come.  

Technology Meets Purpose

Canon’s philosophy of *Kyosei*—living and working together for the common good—beats strongly at the heart of this initiative. From coral nursery tables to autonomous reef monitoring systems, the partnership blends cutting-edge innovation with grassroots environmental engagement. Imaging technology transforms scientific observation into an art form, inspiring action by revealing the intricate beauty of marine life.  

Project REEFrame embodies hope. It’s a fusion of science, creativity, and community, proving that when technology serves nature, extraordinary change happens. The UAE’s coastal ecosystems may have faced devastating losses, but with this collaboration, they are on a path toward renewal—a living testament to what’s possible when humanity chooses to protect and restore the wonders of our world.