Business

The Middle East holds a mid-level position in business complexity according to the latest Global Business Complexity Index, which evaluates 79 major markets. Within the region, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are highlighted for their evolving business environments. Egypt has reduced its complexity, aided by new logistics solutions, improved trade corridors, and incentives that attract international companies. Saudi...

The non-alcoholic drinks market in Saudi Arabia is experiencing robust growth, mainly due to increased health consciousness among consumers. Many are moving away from sugary and carbonated beverages, especially younger people concerned about lifestyle diseases like obesity and diabetes. This shift is driving demand for functional and plant-based drinks. Interest in premium and organic beverages is also rising, supported by...

MRM has named Warren Davey as General Manager for its operations in Saudi Arabia, signaling a push to expand in this rapidly evolving market. MRM, part of the global Interpublic network, operates at the crossroads of advertising and consultancy, offering services in creative strategy, branding, digital transformation, and customer relationship management. The company has a significant global footprint, with offices...

Leo Burnett Saudi Arabia has named Tarek Akil as its new Business Lead, entrusting him with the leadership of the Riyadh office. In this position, Akil will oversee client relations, shape commercial strategies, and drive the agency’s expansion across the Kingdom. Akil brings more than 20 years of advertising experience, having managed major brands throughout Egypt, the Levant, North Africa,...

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a major destination for skilled professionals worldwide, thanks to its focus on innovation and economic diversification. Central to this effort is the Premium Residency program, often called the Saudi Green Card, which grants long-term residency to talented workers, entrepreneurs, and investors, offering them benefits similar to those of citizens. This initiative has already attracted thousands...

Saudi Arabia has lifted restrictions on domestic charter flights, allowing international business and private jet operators to fly within its borders. The new policy, set to begin in May 2025, is a significant step in the country’s plan to become a leading global aviation hub and boost its private aviation industry. According to GACA, the move is expected to create...

Startups eyeing expansion into Saudi Arabia’s booming market must carefully navigate local regulations, secure strong financial backing, and adapt to cultural expectations. Saudi Arabia’s dynamic business environment offers significant opportunities, but industry experts stress that regulatory compliance is a top priority. Startups need to secure proper licenses, adhere to Saudization policies, and understand sector-specific laws. Establishing a physical presence and...

The Middle East is rapidly establishing itself as a key force in the global business events industry, with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar leading the way. Strategic investments, robust infrastructure development, and a strong preference for in-person meetings are driving the region’s transformation into a major hub for international conferences and exhibitions. Recent analysis highlights exceptional growth in the...

The upcoming Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia is set to make waves in the gaming industry, featuring 25 tournaments across 24 titles over eight weeks and offering an unprecedented prize pool exceeding $70 million. Supported by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, the event’s organizers have also launched a $20 million partner fund to assist 40 prominent esports teams, aiming...

Saudi Arabia has introduced new laws governing commercial registration and trade names, aiming to modernize its business environment and support the Vision 2030 agenda. The updated regulations streamline company registration by creating a single national commercial register, removing the need for multiple subsidiary records. Businesses can now operate various activities under one registration, offering greater flexibility and reducing administrative work....

The Saudi Arabia business travel sector is experiencing robust growth, driven by economic diversification and technological innovation. Recent studies estimate the market's value at $10.2 billion in 2024, with projections reaching $17.8 billion by 2033, reflecting a steady annual growth rate. Key trends shaping the market include a surge in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events as the country...

A delegation from New Jersey, led by Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy, began a six-day economic mission in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The group aims to strengthen partnerships in technology, artificial intelligence, gaming, and other sectors, focusing on expanding trade and investment between New Jersey and Saudi Arabia. During the trip, Governor Murphy met with international and local...

The Saudi-Italian Business Forum in Lombardy spotlighted the growing economic ties between Saudi Arabia and Italy, bringing together key leaders to discuss future collaboration. Executives from both countries emphasized the importance of government support and long-standing relations dating back to the 1930s. The forum focused on strengthening partnerships and unlocking new business opportunities. Italian exports to Saudi Arabia have surged,...

stc group has been recognized as the leading workplace for career advancement in Saudi Arabia, topping LinkedIn’s 2025 list. This recognition comes as the professional landscape rapidly evolves, with job skills expected to change significantly in the coming years and a majority of local professionals seeking new opportunities. The company’s approach centers on nurturing talent throughout every stage of employment....

Saudi Arabia's webook.com is charting an aggressive path to become a billion-dollar enterprise and pursue a future public listing. Originally focused on event ticketing, the platform now aims to be a comprehensive "super app for fun," expanding into flights, hotels, dining, sports facilities, and live streaming. CEO Nadeem Bakhsh outlined a four-pronged strategy: diversification, innovation, globalization, and automation. The company...

India and Saudi Arabia have agreed to collaborate on building two oil refineries in India, a move aimed at strengthening their energy partnership amid global economic pressures. This initiative is part of a larger effort to boost cooperation in sectors such as tourism and technology. The agreement was announced after discussions between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Indian...

Saudi Arabia’s mining industry is rapidly gaining global attention, fueled by government reforms, major investments, and a surge in domestic projects. Recent analysis suggests the sector’s contribution to the national economy could jump from $17 billion in 2024 to $75 billion by 2030, aligning with the country’s Vision 2030 plan. The Kingdom is leveraging its vast mineral reserves, now valued...

Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia are working to expand economic collaboration, especially in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. This development follows a recent forum in Riyadh that brought together over 150 representatives from both countries’ public and private sectors. The gathering, organized by the Federation of Saudi Chambers, was the first major event since the creation of the Saudi-Ethiopian Business Council. The...

Saudi Arabia and Algeria have entered new agreements aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties, as senior officials and business leaders gathered in Algiers for a major business forum. The Saudi-Algerian Business Forum focused on expanding economic cooperation in key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. These talks reflect the enduring relationship between the two countries, both members...

India and Saudi Arabia are strengthening their economic partnership, with leaders discussing potential collaboration on refinery and petrochemical projects. During a visit to Saudi Arabia, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted ongoing feasibility studies focused on connecting the electricity grids of both countries and the broader region. These initiatives underline efforts to deepen cooperation in key energy sectors.

Tesla is expanding Cybertruck sales to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar in an effort to boost demand for its underperforming electric pickup outside North America. Since its launch in 2023, Cybertruck sales have lagged far behind initial expectations, with fewer than 50,000 delivered and only 6,406 sold in the first quarter of 2025. These numbers fall short of Elon...

Mace has named Brian Conlon as its new Country Director for Saudi Arabia, signaling a strong commitment to expanding its operations and service excellence in the region. With over 35 years in the industry, Conlon brings extensive leadership experience from roles at AtkinsRéalis, Arcadis, and EC Harris, where he managed large teams and major projects across multiple regions, including the...

Riyadh Air has introduced the interiors of its upcoming fleet, spotlighting a premium "Business Elite" suite as part of its launch plans. The Saudi Arabian airline aims to connect the country with 100 destinations within five years, supporting the nation’s economic diversification goals. Backed by the Public Investment Fund, Riyadh Air has placed significant orders for both Airbus and Boeing...

Saudi Arabia has achieved significant progress in intellectual property protection, climbing to 40th place in the 2025 Global Intellectual Property Index. The country’s score increased by 17.5 percent, making it one of the fastest-improving nations among those assessed. This advancement reflects major reforms inspired by Vision 2030, which focus on strengthening IP laws, boosting innovation, and building a knowledge-driven economy....

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious new airline, is preparing to launch operations in the final quarter of 2025. The company is actively negotiating for additional aircraft, with plans to introduce first-class cabins on select planes, reflecting a growing trend among airlines to elevate luxury travel experiences. CEO Tony Douglas revealed that Riyadh Air is considering acquiring a third type of...

Saudi Arabia's surge in investment has attracted 50 new British companies to establish regional headquarters, adding to more than 1,300 UK firms already active in the country. This move reflects the UK's commitment to being a lasting partner in Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation, with trade between the two nations exceeding £17 billion and expected to grow alongside Vision 2030 initiatives....

The evolving cultural and creative industries in Saudi Arabia were the focus at a recent business media event. Princess Noura bint Faisal Al Saud, founder and CEO of Culture House, and Kiran Haslam, chief marketing officer of Diriyah Company, discussed changes shaping the region’s creative landscape. During their stage discussion, they highlighted how the Kingdom is embracing new opportunities in...

The commercial construction sector in Saudi Arabia is experiencing strong growth, with the market expected to rise from $72.1 billion in 2024 to $98.61 billion by 2030. This expansion is largely fueled by Vision 2030, a national strategy aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on oil revenues. Major government funding for infrastructure, tourism, and urban development is creating...

Saudi Arabia and Indonesia have taken steps to deepen collaboration in the mining and minerals sector through a new preliminary agreement. This initiative was formalized during a visit by Saudi Arabia’s Industry and Mineral Resources Minister, Bandar Al-Khorayef, to Jakarta. Indonesia, recognized for its significant nickel reserves and other valuable minerals like copper and bauxite, relies heavily on mining, which...

London Business School is preparing to launch a new office in Riyadh, aiming to meet the rising demand for executive education in Saudi Arabia. This initiative aligns with the nation's Vision 2030 and highlights the school's commitment to supporting the Kingdom's evolving business landscape. The Riyadh office will offer executive education programs tailored to both public and private sector needs,...