Latest news with #RiyadhAlNajjar
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sustainability emerges as a key enabler of business excellence across the Middle East, reveals new PwC Middle East report
Integrating sustainability into core operations helps organisations remain future proof, stay compliant and create lasting value Riyadh, KSA – As governments and businesses across the Middle East drive forward their economic transformation agendas, PwC Middle East releases a new report that explores the key role of sustainability in shaping future-ready business strategies. PwC Middle East latest report, Embracing sustainable transformation: The path to business excellence provides valuable insights into how leading organisations embed sustainability into their transformation journeys, enhancing efficiency, resilience and long-term value for stakeholders. The report comes at a pivotal time, as national visions such as Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and We the UAE 2031 drive the integration of environmental and social impact considerations into core business practices, an essential step toward achieving sustainable growth in the region. Riyadh Al Najjar, PwC Middle East Chairman of the Board & KSA Country Senior Partner, commented: 'Saudi Arabia's transformational journey demonstrates how economic diversification, business growth, and sustainable development can go hand in hand. As the Kingdom creates new industries, unlocks innovation and enables a more inclusive, sustainable future for generations to come - businesses have a unique opportunity to align with this vision by embedding sustainability into their corporate strategies, operations, and culture.' From aviation to urban development and industrial manufacturing, organisations align their sustainability goals to future-proof operations and deliver impact. The report features real-world examples of this shift in action: Saudi Aramco advances industrial transformation through investments in carbon capture technologies and expanding its renewable energy portfolio. Etihad Airways enhances fuel efficiency and invests in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) to align with the UAE's decarbonisation goals. Aldar Properties incorporates sustainability into its project development strategy, achieving high Estidama ratings for efficient urban development. Masdar City stands as a model of sustainable urban development, offering a free zone with attractive tax incentives and access for businesses focused on clean energy solutions. Tamer Elleisi, PwC Middle East Transformation Management Consulting Partner shared: 'Embedding sustainability at the core of transformation enables businesses to unlock long-term value and strengthen their competitive advantage. In our region, it's clear that sustainability works best when it's part of the bigger picture, integrated into the way businesses grow, innovate, and lead." The initiatives support an evolving financial landscape. Compared to 2023, 2.5 times more companies in the region now plan to access green loans and bonds, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainable financing models that support national and global environmental priorities. Despite this momentum, organisations still face critical challenges in embedding sustainability into transformation projects. Findings from last year's Sustainability in the Middle East report show that one in three executives cited a lack of internal skills and sustainability expertise as a significant barrier. Additionally, 22% of respondents pointed to the absence of supportive government policies, while 19% flagged conflicting regulations across jurisdictions, emphasising the need for harmonised policy frameworks to enable cross-border progress. Many businesses also struggle with integrating sustainability goals into broader corporate strategies, managing sustainability-related data effectively, and securing necessary funding for long-term initiatives. To address these barriers, PwC's approach focuses on three core lenses: strategic, operational, and cultural, designed to embed sustainability into every aspect of transformation at scale. The strategic lens aligns sustainability with transformation objectives to unlock financial returns and long-term value. The operational lens embeds sustainable practices into day-to-day processes, leveraging AI, data, and circular economy principles to enhance agility and reduce environmental impact. The cultural lens promotes a sustainability-first mindset, driven by leadership commitment, employee upskilling, and organisational change. Together, these three lenses enable organisations to lead with purpose, ensuring sustainability is not just a parallel track but a central driver of successful, future-ready transformation projects. From ESG-aligned KPIs to sustainable value chains, the report provides a clear framework for businesses to drive impact. As the region moves toward a low-carbon, inclusive economy, the report underscores the urgency for both private and public sector organisations to transition from ambition to execution, leading with purpose, agility, and impact. Read the full report here: link About PwC At PwC, our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We're a network of firms in 149 countries with more than 370,000 people who are committed to delivering quality in assurance, advisory and tax services. Find out more and tell us what matters to you by visiting us at Established in the Middle East for over 40 years, PwC Middle East has 30 offices across 12 countries in the region with around 12,000 people. ( PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see for further details. © 2025 PwC. All rights reserved
Arabian Business
24-03-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Saudi CEOs confident of growth in 2025
CEOs in Saudi Arabia remain highly optimistic about their companies' revenue growth in 2025, surpassing regional and global averages, according to PwC's 28th Annual CEO Survey: Saudi Findings. The PwC survey reveals that the Kingdom has demonstrated sustained growth, driven by ambitious workforce expansion, AI adoption and investment in emerging industries. As Saudi Arabia accelerates its economic transformation, local business leaders are among the most confident in the region, steering their organisations to fulfil the nation's bold commitments for a sustainable and future-ready economy. Saudi CEOs optimistic As Saudi Arabia emerges as the top regional investment destination beyond home markets, major investments in AI, sustainability and new industries are reshaping the business landscape. The report finds that 72 per cent of CEOs in the Kingdom have already invested in climate-friendly initiatives, to further reinforce their commitment to sustainable growth, while 81 per cent have adopted GenAI in the past year, outpacing their global and regional peers. Riyadh Al Najjar, PwC Middle East Chairman of the Board and KSA Country Senior Partner, said: 'Saudi Arabia's business leaders are at the forefront of one of the world's most dynamic economic transformations. Their strong commitment to digital innovation, sustainability and sector diversification is not just about embracing change – it's about driving it. 'As the Kingdom continues its strategic investments in AI, workforce development and emerging industries, it is shaping a more resilient and future-ready economy.' Building on this momentum, chief executives in Saudi Arabia are leveraging digital transformation to enhance efficiency, innovation and long-term profitability. The survey reveals that 81 per cent of CEOs in the Kingdom have integrated GenAI into their organisations, with 71 per cent expecting further profitability increases in the next 12 months. Trust in AI is also notably high, with 57 per cent of CEOs in Saudi are confident in embedding AI into key business processes, surpassing global averages. Faisal Alsarraj, PwC Middle East Deputy Country Leader, Saudi Arabia, said: 'CEOs in Saudi Arabia are leading the region in AI adoption, positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for digital transformation. The rapid integration of AI and emerging technologies is already driving significant gains in efficiency and profitability, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's competitive advantage on the world stage.' As Saudi Arabia accelerates its diversification agenda, almost half (47 per cent) of CEOs in the Kingdom say that in the past five years, they have begun to compete in sectors or industries that are new to them. Looking ahead, 69 per cent of local based CEOs plan to make acquisitions within the next three years, with 75 per cent of deal value expected to come from industries beyond their traditional sectors. This expansion aligns with the Kingdom's vision of building new economic pillars, from giga-projects and AI-driven smart cities to high-tech manufacturing and cultural investments. With continued investment in infrastructure and innovation, Saudi Arabia is attracting significant local and international interest, further solidifying its role as a global investment hub. While CEOs in Saudi remain optimistic about growth, they are also navigating an evolving risk environment. Cybersecurity has emerged as a top priority, with 49 per cent of CEOs highlighting the risk of significant exposure to cyber threats. In response, business leaders are increasing investments in digital resilience, strengthening cyber defences, and embedding advanced AI-driven security solutions to safeguard their organisations against emerging risks. Despite these challenges, business leaders in the Kingdom are demonstrating resilience, ensuring long-term value creation through strategic investments in AI, workforce upskilling, and sustainability. As the Kingdom now enters the five-year mark to achieve Vision 2030, CEOs in the Kingdom are embracing transformation with confidence, driving innovation – positioning Saudi Arabia as a frontrunner in the global economy.
Al Bawaba
24-03-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
CEOs confident in 2025 growth as AI, investments and diversification drive transformation – PwC CEO Survey: Saudi Arabia findings
Confidence in economic growth – CEOs in Saudi remain highly optimistic about their companies' revenue growth in 2025, surpassing regional and global averages. According to PwC's 28th Annual CEO Survey: Saudi Findings, the Kingdom has demonstrated sustained growth, driven by ambitious workforce expansion, AI adoption and investment in emerging industries. As Saudi Arabia accelerates its economic transformation, local business leaders are among the most confident in the region, steering their organisations to fulfil the nation's bold commitments for a sustainable and future-ready economy. As Saudi Arabia emerges as the top regional investment destination beyond home markets, major investments in AI, sustainability and new industries are reshaping the business landscape. The report finds that 72% of CEOs in the Kingdom have already invested in climate-friendly initiatives, to further reinforce their commitment to sustainable growth, while 81% have adopted GenAI in the past year, outpacing their global and regional peers. Commenting on the findings, Riyadh AlNajjar, PwC Middle East Chairman of the Board & KSA Country Senior Partner, said: 'Saudi Arabia's business leaders are at the forefront of one of the world's most dynamic economic transformations. Their strong commitment to digital innovation, sustainability and sector diversification is not just about embracing change - it's about driving it. As the Kingdom continues its strategic investments in AI, workforce development and emerging industries, it is shaping a more resilient and future-ready economy.' Building on this momentum, chief executives in Saudi Arabia are leveraging digital transformation to enhance efficiency, innovation and long-term profitability. The survey reveals that 81% of CEOs in the Kingdom have integrated GenAI into their organisations, with 71% expecting further profitability increases in the next 12 months. Trust in AI is also notably high, with 57% of CEOs in Saudi are confident in embedding AI into key business processes, surpassing global averages. Faisal Alsarraj, PwC Middle East Deputy Country Leader, Saudi Arabia, shared: ' CEOs in Saudi Arabia are leading the region in AI adoption, positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for digital transformation. The rapid integration of AI and emerging technologies is already driving significant gains in efficiency and profitability, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's competitive advantage on the world stage.' As Saudi Arabia accelerates its diversification agenda, almost half (47%) of CEOs in the Kingdom say that in the past five years, they have begun to compete in sectors or industries that are new to them. Looking ahead, 69% of local based CEOs plan to make acquisitions within the next three years, with 75% of deal value expected to come from industries beyond their traditional sectors. This expansion aligns with the Kingdom's vision of building new economic pillars, from giga-projects and AI-driven smart cities to high-tech manufacturing and cultural investments. With continued investment in infrastructure and innovation, Saudi Arabia is attracting significant local and international interest, further solidifying its role as a global investment hub. While CEOs in Saudi remain optimistic about growth, they are also navigating an evolving risk environment. Cybersecurity has emerged as a top priority, with 49% of CEOs highlighting the risk of significant exposure to cyber threats. In response, business leaders are increasing investments in digital resilience, strengthening cyber defences, and embedding advanced AI-driven security solutions to safeguard their organisations against emerging risks. Despite these challenges, Saudi business leaders are demonstrating resilience, ensuring long-term value creation through strategic investments in AI, workforce upskilling, and sustainability. As the Kingdom now enters the five year mark to achieve Vision 2030, CEOs in the Kingdom are embracing transformation with confidence, driving innovation - positioning Saudi Arabia as a frontrunner in the global economy. Click here to read the full report
Zawya
24-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
CEOs confident in 2025 growth as AI, investments and diversification drive transformation – PwC CEO Survey: Saudi Arabia findings
AI takes centre stage, as 81% of CEOs in the Kingdom have embraced AI in the past year, driving digital innovation. Business leaders are exploring new growth areas, with 69% keen to make at least one acquisition within the next three years. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Confidence in economic growth – CEOs in Saudi remain highly optimistic about their companies' revenue growth in 2025, surpassing regional and global averages. According to PwC's 28th Annual CEO Survey: Saudi Findings, the Kingdom has demonstrated sustained growth, driven by ambitious workforce expansion, AI adoption and investment in emerging industries. As Saudi Arabia accelerates its economic transformation, local business leaders are among the most confident in the region, steering their organisations to fulfil the nation's bold commitments for a sustainable and future-ready economy. As Saudi Arabia emerges as the top regional investment destination beyond home markets, major investments in AI, sustainability and new industries are reshaping the business landscape. The report finds that 72% of CEOs in the Kingdom have already invested in climate-friendly initiatives, to further reinforce their commitment to sustainable growth, while 81% have adopted GenAI in the past year, outpacing their global and regional peers. Commenting on the findings, Riyadh AlNajjar, PwC Middle East Chairman of the Board & KSA Country Senior Partner, said: 'Saudi Arabia's business leaders are at the forefront of one of the world's most dynamic economic transformations. Their strong commitment to digital innovation, sustainability and sector diversification is not just about embracing change - it's about driving it. As the Kingdom continues its strategic investments in AI, workforce development and emerging industries, it is shaping a more resilient and future-ready economy.' Building on this momentum, chief executives in Saudi Arabia are leveraging digital transformation to enhance efficiency, innovation and long-term profitability. The survey reveals that 81% of CEOs in the Kingdom have integrated GenAI into their organisations, with 71% expecting further profitability increases in the next 12 months. Trust in AI is also notably high, with 57% of CEOs in Saudi are confident in embedding AI into key business processes, surpassing global averages. Faisal Alsarraj, PwC Middle East Deputy Country Leader, Saudi Arabia, shared: ' CEOs in Saudi Arabia are leading the region in AI adoption, positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for digital transformation. The rapid integration of AI and emerging technologies is already driving significant gains in efficiency and profitability, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's competitive advantage on the world stage.' As Saudi Arabia accelerates its diversification agenda, almost half (47%) of CEOs in the Kingdom say that in the past five years, they have begun to compete in sectors or industries that are new to them. Looking ahead, 69% of local based CEOs plan to make acquisitions within the next three years, with 75% of deal value expected to come from industries beyond their traditional sectors. This expansion aligns with the Kingdom's vision of building new economic pillars, from giga-projects and AI-driven smart cities to high-tech manufacturing and cultural investments. With continued investment in infrastructure and innovation, Saudi Arabia is attracting significant local and international interest, further solidifying its role as a global investment hub. While CEOs in Saudi remain optimistic about growth, they are also navigating an evolving risk environment. Cybersecurity has emerged as a top priority, with 49% of CEOs highlighting the risk of significant exposure to cyber threats. In response, business leaders are increasing investments in digital resilience, strengthening cyber defences, and embedding advanced AI-driven security solutions to safeguard their organisations against emerging risks. Despite these challenges, Saudi business leaders are demonstrating resilience, ensuring long-term value creation through strategic investments in AI, workforce upskilling, and sustainability. As the Kingdom now enters the five year mark to achieve Vision 2030, CEOs in the Kingdom are embracing transformation with confidence, driving innovation - positioning Saudi Arabia as a frontrunner in the global economy. Click here to read the full report About PwC At PwC, our purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems. We're a network of firms in 149 countries with more than 370,000 people who are committed to delivering quality in assurance, advisory and tax services. Find out more and tell us what matters to you by visiting us at Established in the Middle East for over 40 years, PwC Middle East has 30 offices across 12 countries in the region with around 12,000 people. ( PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see for further details. © 2025 PwC. All rights reserved Contact: Dana Safawi| More details: @PwC_Middle_East on LinkedIn and Twitter
