Latest news with #MohammedbinSalmanbinAbdulaziz
Arabian Business
07-04-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Riyadh Air gets closer to commercial flights after securing Air Operator's Certificate
Riyadh Air, the new national airline of Saudi Arabia, has received the green light to start operations from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The airline was officially granted an Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) on Monday, authorising it to start commercial flight operations. The AOC confirms Riyadh Air's full compliance with Saudi Arabia's aviation regulations, international standards, and flight safety requirements under the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation. Riyadh Air did not disclose when it would start ticket booking and any date for its inaugural flight. Riyadh Air flight plans The airline is projected to fly to more than 100 destinations by 2030, supported by an order of over 132 aircraft. At the time of launch, Riyadh Air was projected to add $20 billion to non-oil GDP growth, and create more than 200,000 direct and indirect jobs. Before making the decision, GACA completed a comprehensive audit of the airline's technical and aircraft systems, operational readiness, equipment, and the qualifications of both flight and ground personnel. The process, from submission of the formal application to on-site inspections and final approvals, took over 11 months. This included over 200 hours of test flights to ensure full compliance with the highest operational standards. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), had announced Riyadh Air on 12 March 2023. His vision is to leverage Saudi Arabia's strategic geographic location between the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe, and establish Riyadh as a gateway to the world. HRH Crown Prince announces #RiyadhAir, a new national carrier to further expand the Saudi aviation ecosystem locally and globally. — Public Investment Fund (@PIF_en) March 12, 2023 Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of GACA, commented: 'GACA's issuance of the Air Operator Certificate to Riyadh Air marks a significant milestone within the framework of the Saudi Aviation Strategy. Riyadh Air will enhance competition, offer greater value and choices for travelers, and improve connectivity both domestically and globally.' Tony Douglas, CEO, Riyadh Air, added: 'Obtaining the Air Operator Certificate is an important milestone in the company's journey. It is the result of the efforts of many employees at Riyadh Air. Today, we can proudly say that Riyadh Air is now an airline with an operational license to transport our traveling guests, and we are ready to begin operations later in 2025.' In 2024, the number of passengers in Saudi Arabia rose by 15 per cent to exceed 128 million – approximately 25 per cent above pre-pandemic levels. The number of flights increased by 11 per cent to reach over 905,000, while air connectivity grew by 16 per cent and the Kingdom is now linked to more than 170 destinations around the world.
Asharq Al-Awsat
26-03-2025
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Mohammed bin Salman: Unprecedented Transformations, Reforms, and Global Achievements
For Saudis, every anniversary of the pledge of allegiance has become synonymous with new reforms and unprecedented transformations across various sectors. This ongoing progress is at the heart of Vision 2030, an ambitious plan designed to diversify the economy, drive sustainable development, unlock the potential of promising industries, and position Saudi Arabia as a leading economic force in the region and beyond. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz has placed the nation's interests, the well-being of its citizens, and their quality of life at the forefront of his priorities. His leadership emphasizes empowering youth and women, while preserving Saudi Arabia's authentic identity and values, which reflect the Kingdom's deep-rooted heritage and its bright image on the global stage. Among the key sectors driving Saudi Arabia's transformation, tourism has emerged as a major contributor to economic diversification. With mega-projects like NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya, alongside the introduction of the electronic tourist visa, the Kingdom has attracted massive investments and millions of visitors. The technology sector has also undergone a significant transformation, making Saudi Arabia a regional hub for innovation, with heavy investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz at a cabinet meeting. (SPA) Meanwhile, the industrial sector has expanded and evolved with a focus on advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and high-tech industries. Logistics, leveraging the Kingdom's strategic location as a global connectivity hub, has also seen substantial development through major upgrades to airports, ports, and transportation networks. In a major step toward industrial advancement, Crown Prince Mohammed announced the launch of Alat, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a global center for sustainable industries focused on advanced technologies and electronics. The company will develop and manufacture semiconductors, robotics, and drones, catering to local, regional, and international markets. The creation of Alat reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to economic diversification and its ambition to become a leading industrial and technological powerhouse. The Kingdom has also made significant strides in biotechnology and environmental sustainability. The National Biotechnology Strategy, launched last year, aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in the biotech sector while improving public health, protecting the environment, and ensuring food and water security. In parallel, the National Red Sea Sustainability Strategy seeks to safeguard the Red Sea's ecosystem, promote sustainable development, and advance the transition to a blue economy. Facing economic challenges Despite global economic challenges, Saudi Arabia has demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving 1.3% economic growth in 2024. This success is the result of extensive efforts to diversify the economy, with the non-oil sector's contribution to GDP exceeding 51%, a testament to the Kingdom's strategic vision and sound economic policies. Moreover, the country has effectively managed inflation, keeping it at just 1.7% by the end of last year, placing it among the top-performing economies in the G20 in this regard. Attractive environment for investment Under the leadership of the Crown Prince, Saudi Arabia has become one of the world's most attractive investment destinations. Major reforms have transformed the investment landscape, enabling the execution of mega-projects aligned with Vision 2030. Last year, the government introduced a new investment law aimed at attracting foreign investors and diversifying revenue sources. More than 600 multinational companies relocated their regional headquarters to the Kingdom, while over 14,454 new investment licenses were issued this year, bringing the total number of active licenses to over 40,000. Foreign direct investment (FDI) has more than doubled since the launch of Vision 2030, reaching SAR 900 billion ($240 billion). Artificial intelligence Artificial intelligence has become a cornerstone of Vision 2030, serving as a key driver of economic diversification and digital transformation. The Kingdom has taken major steps to strengthen its digital infrastructure, establishing itself as a regional and global leader in AI development and applications. These efforts have positioned Saudi Arabia 14th globally and 1st in the Arab world in the Global AI Index, while also securing the top global ranking for government AI strategy. Within just two years, the Kingdom has attracted $28.3 billion in AI investments, reinforcing its leadership in this transformative sector. Under the direction of the Crown Prince, the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA) has revolutionized digital services, making a significant impact across multiple industries. One of its most notable initiatives is the 'Ainai' (My Eyes) Project, which leverages AI for early detection of diabetic retinopathy and has successfully diagnosed over 846 patients in just one year. In government services, the Unified National Access System has saved over SAR 2 billion in operational costs while reducing reliance on self-service devices and manual processing. Meanwhile, the 'Nafath' application has helped users save over 5 billion minutes by eliminating the need for multiple passwords and has contributed to environmental sustainability by reducing 260,000 daily car trips. Within just two years, the Kingdom has attracted $28.3 billion in AI investments. (SPA) Saudi Arabia has also harnessed AI and smart technologies to improve the Hajj and Umrah experience, overcoming major logistical challenges and ensuring seamless services for millions of pilgrims. Digital platforms like 'Tawakkalna' have provided over 350 electronic services, benefiting 253 government agencies and enhancing the pilgrimage experience. International forums and conferences As Saudi Arabia continues its transformation, it has emerged as a global hub for international conferences and exhibitions. The Kingdom has successfully hosted major global events, reinforcing its growing influence on the world stage. In April, Riyadh hosted the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024, bringing together world leaders, experts, and decision-makers to address global challenges and foster collaborative solutions. Automotive industry Saudi Arabia is also making significant strides in the automotive industry. The establishment of the 'King Salman Automotive Manufacturing Complex' in King Abdullah Economic City is set to become a major hub for car manufacturing. The complex will house Lucid Motors and Ceer (Saudi Arabia's first EV brand), marking a major milestone in the Kingdom's push toward electric vehicle production. In addition, a $488 million joint venture with Hyundai will establish an advanced automated car manufacturing plant, set to begin production in 2026, making it Hyundai's first facility in the Middle East. The 'King Salman Automotive Manufacturing Complex' in King Abdullah Economic City will house Lucid Motors and Ceer. (SPA) Road networks Infrastructure development remains a key priority, with Crown Prince Mohammed launching the Riyadh Circular Roads Development Program in August. The initiative includes the expansion and development of over 500 km of roads, with four major projects valued at over $3.46 billion. Architectural heritage To celebrate and preserve the Kingdom's rich architectural heritage, the Crown Prince unveiled the Saudi Architecture Characters Map. This initiative, which identifies 19 distinct architectural styles inspired by Saudi Arabia's geographic and cultural heritage, aims to enhance the nation's architectural diversity, improve urban landscapes, and create 34,000 direct and indirect jobs in engineering, construction, and urban development. Sustainable tourism has also become a key pillar of Vision 2030, balancing economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation. The 2025 Saudi Tourism Forum, held in Riyadh, highlighted the Kingdom's diverse tourism potential, attracting investors and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. The event showcased Saudi Arabia's efforts to promote cultural and environmental tourism, ensuring that economic benefits align with the preservation of historical and ecological treasures. For example, Al-Ahsa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a prime example of cultural and natural tourism, with its vast palm groves, water springs, and rich traditions dating back thousands of years. Additionally, Time Magazine has named Shebara Resort, owned and operated by Red Sea Global, among the 'World's Greatest Places of 2025.' This recognition highlights the resort's status as a luxury destination that seamlessly combines elegance, sustainability, and breathtaking natural beauty. With its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification, Saudi Arabia is rapidly advancing toward a new era of global leadership and prosperity.
Asharq Al-Awsat
26-03-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
What the Crown Prince's Pledge of Allegiance Anniversary Means to Saudis
As Saudi Arabia marks the eighth anniversary of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz's appointment, history pauses for a moment, reflecting on an unprecedented chapter in the Kingdom's evolution. On June 21, 2017, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz issued a royal decree naming Prince Mohammed bin Salman as Crown Prince. That blessed night, the Saudi people pledged their allegiance to him. It was a pivotal moment in Saudi history, highlighting a remarkable leader who embraced his country's ambitions, steeped in its rich heritage, global stature, and cultural influence. Through this pledge of allegiance, Saudis underscore the uniqueness of their political system, its Islamic authenticity, and its constitutional legitimacy, deeply rooted in the collective acceptance and satisfaction of both rulers and citizens. This bond solidifies the foundation of the Saudi social contract, while also evoking the nation's achievements and its determined steps toward a bright future. The appointment of Prince Mohammed bin Salman as Crown Prince marked the beginning of a new era, where innovation met ambition, and bold planning was paired with relentless action. This decision was more than a political shift; it was a response to the urgent need for leadership driven by a distinct vision, one rooted in determination and the belief that the future is made, not awaited. Prince Mohammed bin Salman has demonstrated exceptional competence and distinguished leadership, making him the ideal choice for Crown Prince, the most important position after the King. The role symbolizes stability, solidifies the King's foundation, and ensures the continuity of the succession. He also heads the government and the Political and Security Affairs Council, which oversees national security strategies, as well as domestic and foreign policies. In addition, he leads the Economic and Development Affairs Council, which is responsible for economic, financial, investment, and developmental issues, including education, healthcare, and public services. As such, he oversees the formulation and execution of policies and strategies across all state sectors. Moreover, he is the architect of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, the driving force behind its goals, and the guardian ensuring the successful implementation of its programs and projects. All the executive tasks and responsibilities entrusted by King Salman to his Crown Prince culminated in his appointment as head of the government by royal decree in September 2022. This marked the first time in 60 years that the King was not the head of the government. While the legal and historical aspects of this royal decree are extensive, the key takeaway is the full trust and absolute delegation from the King to the Crown Prince to manage these responsibilities and oversee a vast range of issues. The scope of achievements reflects this significant delegation. The Crown Prince has translated the King's vision into a living reality, transforming Saudi Arabia into something distinctly different today, while still remaining a continuation of past phases. This is evident in the unwavering commitment to the principles and foundations on which the state was built, drawing strength from its historical legacy and cultural depth.
Argaam
11-03-2025
- Politics
- Argaam
Crown Prince, US official discuss bilateral relations
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz received US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jeddah on March 10. The meeting reviewed the aspects of bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and the US, as well as opportunities to strengthen and develop them across various sectors, state-run Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. They also exchanged views on the latest regional and international developments, and the efforts made to achieve security and stability.
Asharq Al-Awsat
06-03-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Arabia Stresses Support for All Decisions Taken at Arab Summit on Palestine
The Saudi government stressed on Tuesday its full support for the decisions taken at the extraordinary Arab 'Summit for Palestine' that was held in Cairo earlier this week. Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, chaired the cabinet meeting in Riyadh. The summit rejected the displacement of the Palestinian people from their land and urged an end to the catastrophic consequences of the Israeli war on Gaza. The cabinet stressed the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and to attain their legitimate rights, including the establishment of an independent state along the 1967 borders, with east Jerusalem as its capital. The cabinet condemned the Israeli government's decision to halt the entry of humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling on the international community to assume its responsibilities towards these dangerous violations, activate international accountability mechanisms, and ensure the sustained delivery of aid. Crown Prince Mohammed congratulated Muslims on the advent of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, which started on Saturday, underlining the honor bestowed upon Saudi Arabia to serve the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque and their visitors. He emphasized the Kingdom's commitment to fulfilling this great responsibility and dedicating all efforts and capabilities to ensure the comfort of the visitors from their arrival until their safe return to their homes. The cabinet was briefed on the messages Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed received from Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Comoros' President Azali Assoumani. It was also briefed on the outcomes of Crown Prince Mohammed's talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun during his official visit to the Kingdom on Monday. The talks covered ways to boost Saudi-Lebanese relations in various fields, as well as the latest developments in Lebanon and the region and the efforts to address them. The cabinet highlighted the joint statement issued by Saudi Arabia and Lebanon, which underscored the importance of the full implementation of the Taif Agreement, the application of relevant international resolutions, the extension of state sovereignty over all Lebanese territories and the exclusive possession of arms by the Lebanese state. It underlined the national role of the Lebanese army and the need for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all Lebanese territories. On domestic affairs, the cabinet confirmed the government's continued support for the social services system and national initiatives aimed at providing housing for deserving families. It hailed the cooperation and integration among the government, private, and non-profit organizations, as well as community members, to achieve the goals of the Jood Regions campaign.
