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Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia's Quality of Life Program Showcased During Trump Visit Amid National Transformation
U.S. President Donald Trump was introduced to a new chapter in Saudi Arabia's national narrative Tourism increasing from 41 million visits in 2018 to over 115.9 million in 2024 National festivals drawing global interest Riyadh, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saudi Arabia — During a recent high-profile visit to the Kingdom, U.S. President Donald Trump was introduced to a new chapter in Saudi Arabia's national narrative—one defined by social transformation, economic diversification and cultural renaissance. Central to this engagement was the Media Oasis, an activation curated by the Ministry of Media to coincide with the presidential visit and highlight progress under Vision 2030. The immersive platform, hosted in Riyadh, spotlighted Saudi Arabia's transition across public life, culture, and entertainment, with a special focus on the Quality of Life Program (QoL). The Media Oasis included digital installations and interactive exhibits offering policymakers, diplomats, and media representatives a detailed view of how the Kingdom is reshaping its identity and economy to align with global benchmarks. President Trump's presence reaffirmed the long-standing U.S.–Saudi partnership, while drawing international attention to the nation's modernization initiatives. Vision 2030—spearheaded by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman—was prominently featured. The national strategy aims to establish a diversified, knowledge-based economy and to attract global investment and innovation. At the center of the activation was the Quality of Life Program, which illustrates how cultural and lifestyle reforms contribute to broader economic goals. Attendees explored new developments including public parks, modern stadiums, art and music festivals, and the return of cinema—each marking a shift in how daily life is experienced across the Kingdom. 'Quality of life is not a luxury. It is a measurable driver of economic growth, productivity, and investment attractiveness,' said Khalid Albaker, CEO of the Quality of Life Program. Since Vision 2030's launch, more than 674 initiatives have been completed. Of these, 173 were concluded by the Quality of Life Program during 2024. This includes major investments in recreational infrastructure, cultural programming, and livability standards. Key outcomes reported by the program include: Tourism increasing from 41 million visits in 2018 to over 115.9 million in 2024. Foreign direct investment reaching $20.69 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024. A 3.9% year-over-year increase in non-oil gross domestic product, driven in part by entertainment, wellness and cultural sectors. National festivals such as Riyadh Season and art initiatives like the Diriyah Biennale are drawing global interest. New sports academies, concert venues and public spaces are also contributing to a reshaped image of the Kingdom—one that aligns modern leisure with economic opportunity. 'Saudi Arabia's transformation is attracting not only capital but also global talent. These sectors are no longer peripheral—they are essential to the future of our economy,' said Albaker. Looking ahead, major global events such as AFC 2027, Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034 are set to extend international engagement with the Kingdom. These milestones will provide further platforms to showcase national reform. 'We welcome the world to witness the transformation,' said Albaker. 'The invitation is clear: explore the new Saudi Arabia, invest in it, and be part of its growth.' As the Media Oasis closed, its message remained clear: Saudi Arabia's transformation is not aspirational—it is actively underway and open to the world. Attachments Tourism increasing from 41 million visits in 2018 to over 115.9 million in 2024 National festivals drawing global interest CONTACT: Badr Al-Rashed Media & Communications – Quality of Life Program Center balrashed@ | +966 553 472 559 Naif Al-Shahrani Media Relations – Edelman Saudi Arabia | +966 530 633 777Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Leaders
a day ago
- Health
- Leaders
Ministry of Interior Unveils AI-Driven Drone at Hajj Media Hub Exhibition
During its participation in the second annual Hajj Media Hub—hosted by the Ministry of Media from June 1 to 4, 2025—the Ministry of Interior, through its Development Program, showcased an advanced unmanned aerial vehicle at its pavilion at the Makkah Chamber Center for Exhibitions and Events. This AI-powered drone is designed to enhance surveillance, monitoring, and crowd management efforts. Equipped with cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies, it can perform real-time scene analysis, detect unusual activity, and instantly alert the command-and-control center. These capabilities support rapid response and proactive safety measures, contributing to the protection and well-being of pilgrims. Related Topics: Saudi Interior Min.: Tourism Companies Deceive Pilgrims, Encourage Hajj Violations Riyadh Global Health Exhibition to Bring Together Int'nal Healthcare Experts Intensive Preparations for Smooth, Safe Hajj Season: Mecca Deputy Governor New Chapter Unfolded: Saudi Arabia Launches Electronic Intensive Care Unit Short link : Post Views: 8 Related Stories
Saudi Gazette
4 days ago
- General
- Saudi Gazette
Arafat sermon to disseminate among global audience in 34 languages
Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has completed preparations for the Arafat sermon translation project. The project aims to convey Islam's message of tolerance to a global audience in their native languages, fostering better communication between Muslims and non-Muslims. It also underscores the Kingdom's pivotal role in serving the Two Holy Mosques and its unwavering commitment to supporting pilgrims worldwide. The project aims to provide real-time translation of the Arafat sermon in more than 34 languages, making it one of the largest initiatives of the Hajj season. A key feature of the project is the integration of Quick Response (QR) codes, which offer easy access to both textual and audio translations. This allows pilgrims to listen to the sermon in their respective languages, regardless of their location, whether within the holy sites or beyond. To expand the reach and amplify the impact of the service, QR codes have been displayed on screens in key facilities, buses, and pilgrim accommodations. Additionally, the service has been promoted through various government media platforms and shared with international media in coordination with the Ministry of Media.
Barnama
13-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Media Ministry Launches ‘Media Oasis' Concurrent With Trump's Visit To Saudi Arabia
RIYADH, May 13 (Bernama-SPA) -- Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Media announced the launch of the "Media Oasis" in strategic partnership with the Quality of Life Programme - one of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiatives - taking place from May 13 to 14 at the Green Halls area in Riyadh, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. The event coincides with the visit of US President Donald Trump to the Kingdom. The Media Oasis is an integrated platform launched by the ministry to strengthen Saudi Arabia's media presence at major international events and provide a professional environment aligned with the Kingdom's ongoing transformation under the Saudi Vision 2030. bootstrap slideshow The oasis includes several exhibits and zones, such as the exhibition marking 90 years of Saudi-American relations, which highlights key historical moments and shared cultural aspects between the two countries. It features the "Oasis Valley" zone, providing a live broadcast of the US president's visit, along with various media services. Additionally, the "Oasis Exhibition" zone showcases the transformative projects under the Saudi Vision 2030 and joint projects between Saudi Arabia and the United States, along with four studios for local and international television channels. The ninth edition of the Media Oasis is designed over an area of 2,000 square meters, featuring the latest technologies and several areas dedicated to journalists. It is set to support coverage of the US president's visit to Saudi Arabia and is expected to accommodate over 2,500 local and international media professionals. The oasis is organised with the participation of several government entities, including the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), the NEOM project, New Murabba Development Company, Qiddiya Investment Company, and Saudi Arabia's bid to host the 2034 World Cup.
Campaign ME
08-05-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Rethinking Saudi Arabia brand strategy
Declared by the Ministry of Media as the Year of Media Transformation, 2024 marked a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia's ambitious push to modernise its media sector, with targets set to grow the nation's gross domestic product (GDP) contribution to SAR 16bn and create more than 11,000 new media jobs by year-end. Going forward, one can expect continued investment in this space. The marketing landscape in Saudi Arabia is undergoing rapid transformation. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven strategies and women as significant economic contributors, the industry must navigate an evolving ecosystem demanding authenticity, innovation, and cultural relevance. But brands must ask: are they truly addressing today's consumer needs, or simply pouring resources into external agencies and strategies while neglecting foundational issues such as product quality, logistics, packaging, export and import operations, and the right in-house talent? AI and digital content Artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword; it's a fundamental tool reshaping how brands engage with consumers. In Saudi Arabia, where digital transformation is at the forefront of Vision 2030, marketers must integrate AI to create personalised experiences, data-driven strategies, and seamless customer journeys. But here's the catch. AI is only as effective as the strategy behind it. You can't expect an elderly person to enjoy a virtual reality (VR) journey when you're selling off-plan properties to them. It's essential to understand the demographic shifts in the market and tailor AI efforts to meaningfully engage them. The new force in the Saudi market Women in Saudi Arabia are no longer just passive buyers. They are powerful decision-makers, trendsetters, and influencers. With the Saudi female labour force participation rate at 36.2 per cent, there's a clear increase in their buying power. Behind every great man is a woman making that purchase order. According to recent data, Saudi women now control more than half of the country's household spending. This shift demands that brands acknowledge this power and connect authentically. Many continue to operate under outdated assumptions about female consumers, failing to adapt messaging and strategies – causing missed opportunities. Brands must develop more meaningful, inclusive marketing approaches that reflect the diverse, empowered role of women today. Let a woman market to a woman. Are you selling what you think you are? This is the painful bit. The ultimate question for many brands today is whether their product is truly ready for market, or if they're pushing it out simply because they were told to. It's easy to be seduced by international agencies promising groundbreaking campaigns. But the core of any successful brand lies in the authenticity and quality of the product itself. If your research and development (R&D) phase didn't lead to a compelling, high-quality product, no amount of marketing will save it. Re-read that phrase – it's really a break-it or save-it situation. Many brands invest significant resources into selling a product that isn't well-researched, doesn't solve a real consumer need, or simply isn't up to par. Without a solid foundation, your brand could find itself on the wrong side of market dynamics, no matter how sophisticated your strategy may be. You don't want to spend millions on a branded drink that looks great but tastes … you know what I mean. Are you hiring the right people? There is an emerging gap in the integration between global strategy and local relevance. Are international marketing teams equipped to truly understand Saudi consumer behaviour, preferences and culture? Too often, local talent is sidelined in favour of global agencies that might not grasp the nuances of the market. Brands must ensure teams are equipped with the right tools and possess local knowledge. Trust your local hire to give you advice instead of the person who looks like a million bucks, flown in this morning from somewhere that's not Saudi. This means investing in the right talent for the right roles to create impactful, culturally relevant campaigns. Saudi Arabia is filled with unwavering talent. The creativity here is among the best in the region. Give these creatives the right tools and KPIs, and see them fly. Marketing's moment of truth in Saudi 2024 was a landmark year for government-led initiatives in Saudi Arabia's marketing, media and creative sectors. From hard infrastructure such as financing funds, academies and regulatory frameworks to soft support such as events, campaigns and recognition, the state has taken a multi-pronged approach to develop this segment of the economy. As Saudi Arabia continues its drive towards modernisation, marketing's role has never been more critical. The interplay of AI, digital content, and women's economic influence presents a unique opportunity for brands to rethink their approach. However, true success comes from product authenticity, having the right talent, and marketing strategies that speak to today's empowered Saudi consumer. Reputation is at the heart of any brand's success in this market. By Jana Bader, Managing Director, Supreme Hospitality KSA
