“Saudi Arabia revised upward its foreign direct investment numbers this week, doubling the FDI inflow figure for 2023 to $25.5 billion according to a new government methodology.” New Saudi methodology doubles 2023 FDI inflow [Arabian Gulf Business Insight]
“This camel festival, held in honour of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is now in its sixth year and is on par with the richest horse races worldwide. It has come to be recognised as a serious international sport and a great tourist attraction in several Middle Eastern countries. This year, some 21,000 camels are taking part.” Women camel jockeys race in Saudi Arabia, breaking a social barrier [South China Morning Post]
“Do they pay me to come here? Yes. But we must not lose perspective… Changes cannot happen from one day to the next 100%, because society is not prepared for a radical change. No society has ever been like this in history, this change has to happen gradually. I believe that all these things that are happening in the country mean that this change, instead of happening in 50 or 60 years, will happen in a much shorter time. And I believe that, in some way, despite all the criticism, it is worth it and I accept the criticism, I respect it.” 22-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal, Rafael Nadal gives brutally honest verdict on Saudi Arabia criticism and sportswashing claims [Tennis 365]
“I would say it is competitive, and it is not easy to get in, but with the nursing college here, it is really worth it, and you will end up grateful.” — Ali from Saudi Arabia, nursing major, University of South Carolina, Meet Ali from Saudi Arabia, a Nursing Student at the University of South Carolina [Shorelight]
“The genius of Saudi Arabia’s enterprise is that it’s power projection by consent. Investors and fans want what bin Salman is selling, governments have limited recourse and critics are left to grasp at standard, out-dated arguments.” Aaron Ettinger, More than money: The geopolitics behind Saudi Arabia’s sports strategy [The Conversation]
“The EU wants to strengthen its energy security by cementing ties with the GCC, following European states’ decision to cut dependence on Russian gas imports since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The states have also underlined the EU-Opec dialogue’s importance in stabilising energy markets, reducing volatility and “enhancing the security of energy supply”.” Energy security at centre of EU-GCC collaboration [Arabian Gulf Insight]
“And today, at just 27, Naim – better known as Noor Stars – is the biggest Arab female YouTube star on the planet, with 21.1 million subscribers to her channel. Add to that nearly 16 million on Instagram, 3.4 million on Facebook, 10.3 million on TikTok, and 3 million on Snapchat – combined with her podcasts – Naim has nearly 60 million followers across her multiple platforms.” How Noor Stars became the Arab world’s biggest YouTube star [Arabian Business]
“The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, decided to raise the Saudization rates for four healthcare jobs in the private sector. These include radiology (65%), medical laboratories (70%), clinical nutrition (80%), and physical therapy (80%). The first phase begins six months after the issuance of the decisions, starting on April 17, 2025.” Saudi Arabia to localize 4 healthcare jobs [Argaam]
“We received many ‘health warnings’ about the challenges of replicating a successful UAE business model and brand into Saudi Arabia. I recall one meeting where I was told “Saudi Arabia is the graveyard of UAE businesses”! All I can say to anyone reading this is, don’t listen to the naysayers… get yourself on the ground, invest in a Saudi based team, and don’t look back.” Loren Holland, CEO and Founder, GymNation, Saudi Arabia’s Fitness Movement: GymNation to Accelerate Expansion Following Opening of 20th Location [Fitt Insider]
