Saudi Vision 2030: Quality of Life Program

How is the Saudi Vision 2030’s Quality of Life Program Supporting Business Transformation

The Quality of Life Program is a flagship initiative under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed at enhancing the lifestyle and well-being of residents and visitors while driving social and economic growth. Launched in 2018, the program focuses on creating vibrant communities, enriching cultural experiences, and elevating the quality of public services.

More than improving living standards, this program is a magnet for global investors, businesses, and talent. Backed by major investments in infrastructure, tourism, and cultural initiatives, it positions Saudi Arabia as a key hub for international business expansion.

Key Targets of the Quality of Life Program

• Develop 260 cultural events annually to foster a rich creative environment.
• Construct over 130 public parks and recreational spaces to boost community well-being.
• Achieve 100% broadband internet coverage in urban areas, supporting digital business needs.
• Develop new entertainment, sports, and cultural venues to attract tourism and investment.
• Double international tourist arrivals to 41 million annually by 2030, driving demand for hospitality and related sectors.
• Position Saudi Arabia among the top 20 countries in global quality of life indices to boost the Kingdom’s competitiveness on the global stage.

How Does the Quality of Life Program Support Global Businesses?

The Quality of Life Program creates fertile ground for foreign companies to expand into Saudi Arabia’s thriving economy. By transforming the nation’s cultural, recreational, and tourism infrastructure, this program unlocks significant opportunities for businesses across multiple sectors, from hospitality and construction to digital services and entertainment.

Opportunities for Hospitality, Tourism, and Retail Businesses

• New Entertainment Venues: As Saudi Arabia develops concert halls, cinemas, and theme parks, businesses in entertainment, ticketing, and event management are poised to thrive.
• Tourism Boom: The goal of 41 million international tourists annually means rising demand for hotels, short-term rentals, transportation, and travel tech platforms. Businesses that offer tourism services or hospitality tech solutions can capitalize on this surge.
• Retail Expansion: As disposable income grows, consumer demand for global brands increases. This presents a chance for international retail and luxury brands to set up flagship stores in Saudi’s shopping hubs.

Boosting Demand for Construction and Infrastructure Companies

• Public Parks & Recreational Spaces: The construction of over 130 new parks requires design, construction, and maintenance services, creating opportunities for foreign construction, landscaping, and architectural firms.
• Smart Cities Development: The program’s goal to provide 100% broadband coverage positions Saudi Arabia as a future smart city hub, encouraging the entry of firms specializing in smart city technologies and infrastructure.

Find out more opportunities in the construction sector here.

Growth of the Digital Economy & Tech Sectors

• Digital Transformation: Universal broadband access creates opportunities for cloud services, telecom companies, and technology providers. Companies specializing in IoT, fintech, and digital payment solutions will be able to support this tech transformation.
• Entertainment Tech: As new entertainment venues launch, opportunities for companies that provide ticketing platforms, live-streaming tech, and digital event platforms will grow.

Opportunities in Arts, Culture, and Creative Industries

• Cultural Investments: Saudi’s plan to host 260 cultural events annually creates opportunities for creative agencies, media production companies, and event organizers. Businesses that offer training for artists, creative content, and media production can also benefit.
• Film and Media Production: The Kingdom’s new film production facilities present opportunities for international media companies, animation studios, and content production firms.

Updates of the Quality of Life Program (2024 Latest Milestones)

The Quality of Life Program has seen significant developments in 2024, further enhancing opportunities for international businesses. Below are the key updates:

• Launch of the "Jeddah Waves" Waterfront Project: This new waterfront leisure project includes luxury hotels, entertainment centers, and open-air performance venues, creating entry points for hospitality, event management, and real estate companies.
• Public Spaces Revamp: In 2024, over 20 new public parks were inaugurated, requiring ongoing landscape design and maintenance services.
• Introduction of New International Festivals: The number of cultural festivals doubled in 2024, creating increased demand for international event organizers, artists, and cultural ambassadors.
• Major Sports Tournaments: Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global sporting hub has seen the introduction of new tournaments, including the hosting of FIFA Club World Cup 2024. This signals increased opportunities for sports marketing, sponsorship, and facility management.

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