Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Minister of Media Salman Al-Dosari outlined how Saudi Arabia is consolidating its position as a global hub for investment, innovation and major international events, supported by strong performance indicators across key national sectors.

During a press conference held in Riyadh, Al-Dosari reviewed achievements in water sustainability, defense localization, culture, tourism, sports and digital transformation.

He said the Kingdom now ranks first globally in water supply, producing more than 16 million cubic meters daily, with network coverage reaching nearly 83 percent of the population.

Awareness campaigns have reduced water waste from 33 percent in 2019 to about 28 percent, contributing to improved quality of life and resource sustainability.

In the defense sector, localization of military spending rose to nearly 25 percent in 2024, moving closer to Vision 2030’s target of exceeding 50 percent. The Cultural Investment Conference 2025 secured agreements worth SR5 billion, contributing to a cultural infrastructure ecosystem that has now surpassed SR81 billion.

Riyadh has also strengthened its role as a central destination for major global gatherings.

Al-Dosari highlighted that the 11th edition of the Biban Forum drew participation from 169 countries and hosted the Entrepreneurship World Cup finals, where a Swiss company took first place.

The event brought together 150 entities that signed agreements exceeding SR130 billion to support innovation, job creation and human capital development.

Saudi Arabia continued to lead in digital transformation, hosting the Digital Government Forum 2025 with participation from 400 government entities. Twenty-six institutions advanced to the “innovation” stage on the Digital Transformation Index. Innovation in service delivery was also showcased at the 5th Hajj Conference and Exhibition, themed “From Makkah to the World,” which saw participation from more than 150 countries.

Tourism and urban development recorded major gains as well. The “Tourism Means Business” Forum attracted 120 countries and more than $113 million in investments. The World Tourism Forum reinforced the Kingdom’s role in shaping global travel trends. The third CITYSCAPE exhibition brought together over 550 entities, resulting in real estate deals exceeding SR237 billion.

Saudi Arabia’s sporting profile also advanced during the sixth Islamic Solidarity Games, which included 57 countries and more than 3,000 athletes.

“The Kingdom secured fourth place, earning 57 medals of various categories,” Al-Dosari said.

He also highlighted the media impact of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s recent visit to the United States, which generated nearly 4 billion views in less than 48 hours, with more than 120,000 media items published in 45 languages across 130 countries.

Al-Dosari concluded that the Kingdom “has painted a picture of global momentum through a series of international events that bring together decision-makers and investors,” underscoring Saudi Arabia’s rise as a global center for opportunity, innovation and international engagement.