Throughout 2023, Saudi Arabia solidified its position on the global stage, showcasing a series of accomplishments across the technology, tourism, diplomatic, entertainment, and sports sectors. The Kingdom’s strategic economic diversification and expansion were evident as it hosted prominent figures and events, marking a year of significant achievement.
The past year saw Saudi Arabia welcome a constellation of celebrities, athletes, and business magnates. Its successful bid to host the World Expo 2030 stands as a testament to the country’s growing influence and ambition.
Diplomacy
Saudi Arabia’s enhanced international standing was particularly noticeable, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s interview with a major US news outlet in September capturing global attention. His clear and ambitious vision was well-received by international audiences.
In the days leading up to the interview, the crown prince was the guest of honor in India, attending the G20 summit and engaging in a ceremonial reception. The visit yielded numerous bilateral agreements across various sectors, strengthening ties with one of the world’s burgeoning economies.
Earlier in July, Saudi Arabia became the 51st signatory of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, reinforcing its commitment to peaceful relations in Southeast Asia. The Kingdom’s Foreign Minister signed the treaty, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s engagement with the ASEAN bloc.
A summit in October brought together leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council and ASEAN in Riyadh, further enhancing Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic relationships.
World Expo 2030
In a significant victory, Saudi Arabia was chosen to host the World Expo 2030, outpacing contenders South Korea and Italy. Set to unfold in Riyadh under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,” the Expo aligns with the national Vision 2030 and is expected to attract millions of visitors from around the globe.
Business and Innovation
January marked a milestone for Saudi Arabia with the unveiling of The Line, a groundbreaking sustainable smart city project within the larger NEOM development. The city’s design, showcased at an exhibition in Riyadh, is set to revolutionize urban living with a car-free, emissions-free environment powered entirely by renewable energy.
Technology
The Kingdom also made waves in the tech industry with the LEAP conference in Riyadh, drawing over a quarter-million registrations on its opening day. The event saw the announcement of substantial investments in tech startups and other entrepreneurial initiatives.
March heralded another leap in business as the crown prince announced the creation of Riyadh Air, the country’s second national airline, with a fleet poised to connect over a hundred destinations worldwide.
Sport
Internationally renowned events graced Saudi Arabia in 2023, including the signing of football icon Cristiano Ronaldo with Al-Nassr, the Jeddah-hosted Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, and the much-anticipated boxing match “Battle of the Baddest” featuring Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou in Riyadh.
Culture
Cultural highlights included performances by Grammy winner Macklemore and the group Imagine Dragons, along with the AZIMUTH Festival during National Day celebrations. Riyadh Fashion Week emerged as a new hot spot for the fashion industry, and Soundstorm 2023 brought the year to a close with an epic musical celebration.
The diverse offerings in technology, investment, tourism, and entertainment over the past year indicate Saudi Arabia’s trajectory toward becoming a premier destination in the Middle East.