Employment among Saudi women in the private sector has exceeded one million for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s labor market transformation under Saudi Vision 2030, according to analysis by Al Eqtisadiah.

The rise in female employment comes alongside a broader decline in unemployment, which fell by 0.3 percentage points to 7.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025. The figure brings the Kingdom closer to its Vision 2030 target of 7 percent, a threshold first reached in late 2024 before fluctuating through 2025.

Labor market gains have been underpinned by sustained economic growth, particularly in non-oil sectors, supported by government spending and expansionary fiscal policies. Analysts attribute job creation largely to private sector expansion and structural reforms aimed at increasing workforce participation among Saudi nationals.

Female employment has been a central driver of this shift. Prior to the launch of Vision 2030, unemployment among Saudi women stood at 34.5 percent, significantly contributing to overall joblessness. By the fourth quarter of 2025, female unemployment had declined to 10.3 percent, its lowest level since official records began in 1999.

At the same time, female labor force participation rose by 0.8 percentage points to 34.5 percent, exceeding the Vision 2030 target. Male participation also increased, reaching 64.7 percent. However, male unemployment edged up slightly to 5.6 percent, indicating a divergence in labor market dynamics across genders.

Overall unemployment, which includes both citizens and expatriates, rose marginally by 0.1 percentage points to 3.5 percent. This increase was driven by a rise in non-Saudi unemployment, which reached 1.7 percent.Economic indicators suggest that employment growth is closely tied to broader macroeconomic performance.

Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic product expanded by 5 percent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking the fastest pace in four quarters and the eighth consecutive quarter of growth. The oil sector recorded a 10.8 percent increase, its strongest expansion in over three years, supported by higher production levels.

The non-oil sector maintained steady growth of 4.3 percent for the 20th consecutive quarter, reinforcing its role as a key pillar of economic diversification. In contrast, the government sector contracted by 1.2 percent, its first decline in more than two years.

Within the private sector, employment gains among Saudi nationals have been substantial. A total of 811,000 jobs were added over the period, including approximately 533,000 positions filled by women and 278,000 by men. As a result, total Saudi employment in the private sector rose to 2.55 million, representing a 52 percent increase.

Women accounted for 66 percent of new jobs created for Saudi citizens in the private sector, highlighting their growing role in the workforce. The increase reflects a series of policy reforms aimed at improving access to employment opportunities and reducing structural barriers.

Key measures have included lifting restrictions on women’s participation across multiple industries, advancing wage equality, and updating maternity regulations. Authorities have also introduced targeted programs to support female employment, including training initiatives, childcare services, and policies designed to enhance workplace inclusion.

Mobility reforms, including the lifting of restrictions on women driving, have also contributed to increased workforce participation by improving access to jobs. In parallel, government initiatives have encouraged private sector firms to hire more women, aligning corporate practices with national employment objectives.

The expansion of female employment has had a measurable impact on the overall labor market, contributing to a sustained decline in unemployment among Saudi nationals. Analysts note that continued progress will depend on maintaining economic growth, particularly in non-oil sectors, and further integrating women into emerging industries.

The data indicates that structural changes in the labor market are gaining traction, with female participation emerging as a key factor in achieving broader economic goals.

Saudi Arabia is accelerating efforts to expand women’s participation in artificial intelligence through state-led reforms and private sector initiatives tied to Vision 2030, as officials and industry leaders point to rapid gains in training, workforce inclusion and investment in emerging technologies.

Government-backed programs and institutional reforms have supported a sharp rise in female participation in technical education and the labor market, with policymakers framing gender inclusion as central to economic diversification.

According to Areeb Alowisheq, vice president of AI research at Humain, the Kingdom has achieved the highest global female-to-male ratio in AI training, reflecting what she described as a long-term policy focus on education and workforce development.

Alowisheq said the current expansion builds on decades of public investment in education, including overseas scholarship programs. Since 2005, the King Abdullah Scholarship Program has funded more than 250,000 Saudi citizens to study abroad, contributing to a skilled workforce across science and engineering disciplines.

Domestic institutions have also played a central role. Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, described as the world’s largest women’s university, has produced graduates in science, technology, engineering and medicine for decades.

By 2017, female university graduates in Saudi Arabia outnumbered male graduates, according to Alowisheq.She linked these educational gains to structural reforms introduced under Vision 2030, launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The program set a target to increase women’s workforce participation from 22 percent to 30 percent, alongside regulatory changes aimed at reducing barriers to employment.

These measures included lifting the ban on women driving in 2017, introducing workplace anti-harassment laws and amending the Civil Status Law to allow women to manage businesses, travel independently and act as heads of households.

Female labor force participation exceeded 36 percent by 2025, surpassing the initial target ahead of schedule, according to data cited by Alowisheq.

Saudi authorities have paired these reforms with targeted investment in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. Government spending on emerging technologies rose by more than 56 percent in 2024, while AI-focused companies secured $9.1 billion in funding, reflecting increased activity across the sector.

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority has played a central role in scaling training programs and institutional capacity. In collaboration with Google Cloud, it launched the Elevate Initiative in 2022, a five-year program aimed at training more than 25,000 women in emerging markets in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Saudi Arabia has also expanded its international engagement in the field. It became the first Arab country to join the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence and hosts the UNESCO-backed International Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Ethics in Riyadh, positioning itself within global governance frameworks for emerging technologies.

Training volumes have increased sharply. According to the 2025 AI Index published by Stanford University, more than 666,000 women in Saudi Arabia received training in data and artificial intelligence within a single year. The report ranked the Kingdom first globally in women’s AI empowerment based on participation metrics.

Alowisheq said the scale of training is critical to building an ecosystem capable of supporting adoption and innovation. She described the expansion as creating a base of skilled users and professionals able to integrate artificial intelligence into economic activity

.Alowisheq, who has more than two decades of experience in the sector, said her own career path reflects changes in access and opportunity over time. After completing undergraduate studies in computer applications at King Saud University and pursuing graduate work focused on networking and distributed systems, she said early gaps in AI education motivated her to pursue the field independently.

She now leads initiatives focused on developing Arabic-language AI models, part of broader efforts to localize technology and expand regional capabilities. Within her organization, she said women and men work under equal expectations, reflecting changes in workplace participation following regulatory reforms.

Saudi Arabia’s push to expand women’s participation in artificial intelligence also addresses a broader global imbalance. Data from UNESCO and UN Women indicate that women account for about 22 percent of professional roles in the sector worldwide.Officials and industry participants have framed Saudi Arabia’s approach as a response to both domestic economic priorities and international benchmarks on gender inclusion.

By linking workforce reforms with sector-specific investment, policymakers aim to align labor market participation with growth in high-technology industries.

Alowisheq said the integration of women into the AI workforce reflects a convergence of economic and social policy objectives. She noted that expanding access to education, removing structural barriers and scaling training programs have contributed to measurable increases in participation across both public and private sectors.

The Kingdom’s strategy combines regulatory reform, education investment and international collaboration, with implementation led by government institutions and supported by private sector partnerships.

Officials have emphasized that workforce development remains central to sustaining growth in artificial intelligence and related industries.

The forum, held under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue,” provides a strategic platform for Saudi Arabia to share its Vision 2030 experience while reinforcing partnerships that address shared global challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.

Prince Faisal emphasized that long-term prosperity cannot be achieved by governments acting alone, stressing that meaningful collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for sustainable growth, resilience, and innovation.

He noted that Saudi Arabia views the World Economic Forum as a vital space for exchanging ideas on economic transformation, environmental responsibility, technological advancement, and human development, all of which are core pillars of the Kingdom’s national vision and reform agenda.

The Saudi delegation includes senior officials responsible for finance, investment, economy and planning, commerce, tourism, industry and mineral resources, as well as communications and information technology, reflecting the breadth of the Kingdom’s reform efforts.

Their participation in bilateral meetings and public sessions is aimed at deepening cooperation with international partners, attracting investment, and showcasing Saudi Arabia’s progress in diversifying its economy beyond oil while strengthening institutional capacity and competitiveness.

Prince Faisal highlighted that Saudi Arabia continues to develop new business models and policy frameworks that encourage innovation, enhance productivity, and create high-quality investment opportunities aligned with global trends.

He added that the Davos forum enables constructive engagement with governments, business leaders, and civil society representatives on pressing issues such as global economic uncertainty, climate challenges, digital transformation, and inclusive growth, all of which require collective action and shared responsibility.

Saudi House will also return to Davos in 2026 after its successful debut, hosting more than 20 focused sessions on investment, human capability development, quality of life, and global collaboration.

These sessions are designed to present Saudi perspectives, facilitate dialogue, and build bridges between international stakeholders, reinforcing the Kingdom’s image as an active contributor to global solutions rather than a passive participant.

The 56th World Economic Forum annual meeting is expected to attract around 3,000 participants from nearly 130 countries, including heads of state, government officials, CEOs, and thought leaders.

Saudi Arabia’s strong presence at the forum reflects its confidence in its reform trajectory and its willingness to engage openly with the world to promote stability, shared prosperity, and sustainable development through dialogue and cooperation.

Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are stepping into a US-led technology partnership aimed at securing AI and semiconductor supply chains while accelerating the Middle East’s transition to a digital economy.

Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are set to formally join a United States-led initiative designed to strengthen artificial intelligence and semiconductor supply chains. The move reflects growing regional alignment around technology-driven economic growth and long-term security.

The initiative, known as Pax Silica, brings together countries with complementary industrial strengths to protect critical technology ecosystems. It focuses on semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, data infrastructure, and access to key minerals.

Qatar is expected to join the framework within days, followed shortly by the UAE. Their participation highlights a new phase of regional cooperation centered on technology rather than traditional geopolitical divisions.

The addition of Gulf states to the initiative signals increasing trust and shared economic priorities. It also reflects efforts to integrate Middle Eastern economies into global technology networks.

Pax Silica includes countries such as Israel, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Britain, and Australia. The alliance is structured as a coalition of capabilities rather than a traditional political bloc.

Each member contributes based on its industrial strengths, innovation capacity, and strategic assets. This approach allows flexible collaboration while supporting mutual economic resilience.

US officials describe the initiative as a practical framework rather than a symbolic agreement. Its goal is to translate shared values into coordinated action across supply chains.

For Qatar and the UAE, participation represents a shift toward a technology-focused economic model. Both countries are actively diversifying beyond hydrocarbons through digital infrastructure and innovation investment.

The initiative aligns closely with national strategies aimed at developing artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and smart infrastructure. These efforts support sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

Pax Silica also seeks to reduce dependence on rival suppliers by strengthening trusted partnerships. Secure supply chains are increasingly seen as essential to economic stability and national security.

The announcement comes alongside growing regional interest in critical minerals and advanced manufacturing. These sectors are viewed as foundational to future technology leadership.

Discussions within the group include modernizing trade and logistics routes using advanced technology. Projects such as the India Middle East Europe Corridor are being explored to enhance connectivity.

The initiative also emphasizes protection of critical infrastructure from disruption. Coordinated policy and shared standards are key elements of this strategy.

Regular meetings are planned to expand membership and advance joint projects. This ongoing engagement supports momentum and accountability among participants.

Regional analysts say the move positions the Gulf as an emerging technology hub. Strategic investment and international collaboration are accelerating this transformation.

Israel’s participation alongside Gulf states highlights the economic potential of cross-regional cooperation. Technology is increasingly serving as a bridge for pragmatic partnerships.

The initiative is also expected to attract private sector investment. Companies benefit from clearer supply chain security and coordinated regulatory approaches.

As global demand for AI and semiconductors grows, alliances like Pax Silica are gaining importance. They help ensure reliable access to critical technologies.

Overall, Qatar and the UAE joining the initiative marks a positive step toward a diversified, innovation-driven Middle East. The partnership strengthens global supply chains while supporting regional economic transformation.

The Kingdom’s participation as an invited country highlights its expanding engagement in international affairs and its constructive contribution to addressing global challenges.

The meeting, hosted and chaired by Canada, brings together leaders and ministers from the world’s major economies. It provides an important platform for dialogue on critical global issues, including economic stability, energy security, and maritime safety, as well as cooperation on vital minerals and supply chain resilience.

Saudi Arabia’s invitation to the G7 meeting reflects the international community’s growing recognition of its strategic influence in global affairs.

Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom has pursued an ambitious agenda of economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and international collaboration, aligning its national goals with the world’s shared interests.

Prince Faisal’s presence at this high-level gathering underscores the Kingdom’s active diplomatic engagement and its ongoing efforts to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development worldwide.

Through constructive dialogue and multilateral cooperation, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its partnerships with leading economies and key international organizations.

During the two-day meeting, the discussions are expected to focus on strengthening collective efforts to ensure maritime and energy security, particularly in regions vital to global trade.

As one of the world’s leading energy producers and a major advocate of clean energy transition, Saudi Arabia brings valuable insights into balancing energy sustainability and global security.

The Foreign Minister’s participation also highlights Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in promoting economic cooperation and innovation across borders.

The Kingdom’s growing investments in green energy, digital transformation, and circular carbon economy initiatives demonstrate its commitment to building a sustainable future while contributing to global economic growth.

By engaging in the G7 dialogue, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance international coordination on key geopolitical issues, including regional peace, trade stability, and climate action.

The Kingdom’s approach emphasizes dialogue, respect, and shared prosperity, values that continue to define its foreign policy under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Prince Faisal is expected to hold bilateral meetings with several foreign ministers during his visit, focusing on expanding cooperation in various sectors such as energy, technology, investment, and security.

These discussions reflect Saudi Arabia’s vision of fostering mutually beneficial partnerships that drive innovation and ensure global stability.

The Kingdom’s inclusion in such a prestigious international forum also underscores its increasing influence as a bridge between the Global North and Global South.

With its strategic position, strong economy, and forward-looking policies, Saudi Arabia continues to serve as a reliable partner in addressing transnational challenges.

As the G7 nations discuss critical issues like global supply chains, sustainable energy, and geopolitical tensions, Saudi Arabia’s participation demonstrates its readiness to contribute solutions and share experiences drawn from its own successful reform journey.

This participation reaffirms the Kingdom’s position as a responsible global player dedicated to constructive engagement and balanced diplomacy.

The visit of Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Canada is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s ongoing diplomatic outreach and commitment to shaping a more cooperative and secure world.

Through active participation in major international discussions, the Kingdom continues to strengthen its role as a leader in global dialogue and regional stability.

With Vision 2030 guiding its path, Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic momentum continues to reflect optimism, collaboration, and innovation — values that are driving its transformation into a modern, globally connected nation with a sustainable and prosperous future.

This partnership highlights the potential for mutual growth and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of strategic connections in today’s global economy.

Chencheng Xie, chairwoman of Luminous World Trade Est, recently addressed this topic at the China Night event in Riyadh. Hosted by ewpartners with Arab News as a media partner, the event showcased how exhibitions can serve as robust platforms for conducting business.

Xie pointed out that such events enhance local brand recognition and market influence for companies operating within the Saudi market.

Yao Bin, CEO of Powerchina Oasis engineering consultancy, also contributed valuable insights during the event. He emphasized the fast-growing nature of Saudi Arabia and the myriad investment opportunities available in the Kingdom.

Bin noted that Vision 2030 aligns perfectly with China’s expansion goals, focusing on essential aspects such as growth, innovation, and international cooperation.

Sudheesh Sasidharan, assistant marketing manager at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, highlighted the role of exhibitions in connecting regional and global players.

These events support the diversification goals outlined in Vision 2030, which aims to broaden the Kingdom’s economic base.

Sasidharan emphasized that high-growth areas, including smart cities, renewable energy, logistics, consumer goods, and technological innovation, deserve focused attention at these exhibitions.

The rapid growth in the scale, quality, and international participation of such events demonstrates the increasing significance of Saudi Arabia on the global stage.

Sasidharan noted that China’s presence has expanded significantly, particularly in infrastructure and technology sectors, with Hong Kong acting as an important bridge for collaboration.

The focus on exhibitions as a platform for business aligns with Saudi Arabia’s mission to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on oil revenues.

By fostering partnerships with Asian countries, the Kingdom is poised to enhance its global competitiveness and attractiveness as a destination for investment. This collaborative spirit exemplifies the shared vision of progress that both nations are striving for.

The China Night event serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted connections between Saudi Arabia and China, underscoring the importance of fostering business relationships that can lead to sustainable growth.

As Asian executives champion this cooperation, they pave the way for innovative ventures and collaborative projects that can drive economic development in both regions.

Furthermore, these exhibitions provide an opportunity for knowledge exchange, where companies can learn from each other’s experiences and best practices.

This exchange not only enriches the participants but also strengthens the overall business ecosystem in Saudi Arabia. The emphasis on collaboration and shared learning is crucial for achieving the ambitious goals outlined in Vision 2030.

In conclusion, the positive sentiment surrounding Saudi-China cooperation, as highlighted by Asian business executives, reflects a promising future for both nations.

By leveraging exhibitions as a key strategy for market entry and collaboration, they are setting the stage for a new era of economic growth and partnership.

This alignment of goals and resources signifies a strong foundation for ongoing cooperation that can benefit not only Saudi Arabia and China but also the broader global economy.

The meeting, held on the sidelines of the ninth Future Investment Initiative conference, reflected both nations’ shared commitment to advancing cooperation in trade, investment, and sustainable development.

The discussions focused on expanding collaboration across several key sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, energy, and technology.

Both sides emphasized the importance of fostering innovation and building resilient supply chains that support long-term prosperity.

The dialogue also highlighted opportunities for joint ventures and investment projects that align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and Vietnam’s economic modernization agenda.

During the meeting, the two leaders reaffirmed their countries’ determination to enhance trade exchanges and develop new pathways for private sector engagement.

Vietnam, one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies, has expressed strong interest in exploring Saudi Arabia’s dynamic investment environment, particularly in renewable energy, digital transformation, and logistics.

In turn, Saudi Arabia views Vietnam as a vital gateway to Southeast Asia, offering valuable opportunities for cooperation in manufacturing, agriculture, and technology-driven industries.

Minister Faisal Alibrahim underlined Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating a sustainable and diversified economy that welcomes international partnerships.

He noted that Vietnam’s technological expertise and its expanding industrial base complement the Kingdom’s ambitions to become a global hub for investment and innovation.

The meeting also explored potential cooperation in green energy initiatives, aligning with both countries’ shared vision for a more sustainable future.

Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung praised Saudi Arabia’s rapid economic transformation and its leadership in fostering international collaboration.

He expressed Vietnam’s readiness to work closely with the Kingdom in areas that promote mutual growth, including digital economy development, infrastructure expansion, and agricultural trade.

Both parties agreed to continue high-level dialogues and establish frameworks to translate their discussions into actionable projects.

In addition to his talks with the Vietnamese delegation, Minister Alibrahim held meetings with global financial leaders attending the Future Investment Initiative.

He met with International Finance Corporation Managing Director Makhtar Diop to discuss the latest economic trends and explore opportunities to enhance financial cooperation in the Kingdom.

The discussions emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and innovative financing models to accelerate development goals.

Minister Alibrahim also met with World Economic Forum President and CEO Borge Brende to exchange views on recent global economic developments and ongoing collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the WEF.

The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation on issues such as digital transformation, sustainability, and global investment flows. Their dialogue underscored the Kingdom’s growing influence in shaping the future of the global economy.

The meetings reflect Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to fostering international alliances that drive progress, promote innovation, and encourage economic diversification.

As the Kingdom continues to build bridges with global partners, the partnership with Vietnam stands out as a promising example of shared ambition and mutual benefit.

By combining Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision and investment power with Vietnam’s innovation and manufacturing capabilities, both nations are setting the stage for a new era of collaboration that supports sustainable growth, enhances regional connectivity, and contributes to global economic resilience.

This renewed partnership marks another milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey to position itself as a leading global investment destination and a key driver of international cooperation.

The event, which saw the signing of 28 agreements and memoranda of understanding worth over SR3.6 billion ($960 million), underscores the Kingdom’s growing role as a global leader in sustainable agriculture and environmental innovation.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the four-day exhibition features nearly 450 companies and organizations from 34 countries, including 11 national pavilions.

The event serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies in plant, animal, and fish production, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals of achieving food self-sufficiency, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing the Kingdom’s agricultural competitiveness.

In his opening remarks, Minister Al-Fadley emphasized the significance of agricultural innovation in achieving environmental sustainability, water preservation, and food security.

He noted that the record-breaking number of agreements signed reflects the confidence of local and international investors in the Kingdom’s agricultural sector, which continues to expand through strategic investments and advanced research.

Prince Saud bin Turki Al-Faisal, chairman of the board at Riyadh Exhibitions Co., highlighted the event’s growing influence, describing it as “a vital global platform for exchanging expertise, forging partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural practices.”

He added that global environmental challenges call for innovative solutions and collaboration between nations to safeguard natural resources and ensure a resilient future for food production.

Following the inauguration, Minister Al-Fadley toured various pavilions, exploring the latest advancements in livestock management, aquaculture, organic farming, food processing, agricultural machinery, and biotechnology.

He praised the exhibitors for their contribution to transforming agriculture into a high-tech, eco-conscious industry that supports both local farmers and international trade.

The exhibition’s first day saw the signing of 28 strategic agreements among public, semi-governmental, and private entities aimed at enhancing agricultural investments, supporting startups, and driving innovation in the sector.

Several international partnerships were also announced, focused on boosting Saudi Arabia’s agri-food value chains, expanding research in climate-resilient crops, and encouraging technology transfer from leading agricultural nations.

According to event organizers, the Saudi agricultural sector contributed SR119 billion to the national GDP in 2024, marking a steady rise in productivity and investment.

This figure is expected to climb to SR140 billion by 2030, reflecting the country’s success in diversifying its economy and reducing dependency on imports through sustainable domestic production.

Running parallel to the exhibition is the International Future of Agriculture Summit, which gathers experts, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from around the world to discuss the future of food systems, digital agriculture, and sustainable farming techniques.

Topics such as AI-driven irrigation, hydroponics, and green supply chains are central to this year’s discussions, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional hub for smart agriculture.

Industry leaders attending the exhibition praised the Kingdom’s proactive approach toward building a resilient and environmentally responsible food system.

By leveraging technology, research, and international partnerships, Saudi Arabia continues to advance toward its Vision 2030 targets, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration.

The exhibition not only celebrates Saudi Arabia’s agricultural progress but also serves as a reminder of the Kingdom’s broader mission: ensuring food security for future generations while balancing economic growth and environmental stewardship.

With over 450 global participants and nearly $1 billion in agreements, the 42nd Saudi Agriculture Exhibition stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to creating a prosperous, sustainable, and food-secure future — both for itself and for the wider world.

Speaking at the Saudi International Rail Exhibition and Conference in Riyadh, Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs Khalil bin Ibrahim bin Salamah highlighted the growing importance of railways in supporting national industrial growth and achieving Vision 2030 objectives.

He noted that the Kingdom’s advanced railway network plays a key role in connecting industrial clusters, transporting raw materials to factories, and moving finished goods to key urban and port destinations.

“To develop national industrial capabilities and enhance Saudi Arabia’s global competitiveness, we have launched specialized industrial clusters focused on transforming raw materials into high-value-added products,” the vice minister said.

“The railway network integrates these clusters into a unified ecosystem, accelerating industrial efficiency and sustainability.”

The vice minister emphasized that the localization of railway manufacturing and technology offers vast investment opportunities in sectors such as locomotive production, signaling systems, and wheel assembly — all of which support Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy of diversifying its economy through domestic production and innovation.

Industry experts and global leaders echoed the sentiment, highlighting the Kingdom’s forward-thinking approach to rail development.

Junaid Khan, engineer and commercial manager at Metrolinx, discussed how value engineering and digital technologies can create efficient frameworks for railway innovation.

He emphasized the need for early-stage collaboration between design, operations, and engineering teams to ensure cost-effective, future-ready projects. “It’s crucial to view projects through a life cycle perspective,” Khan noted.

“Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies can enhance decision-making, reduce waste, and improve predictability in every stage of infrastructure development.”

The conference also explored the integration of cybersecurity in rail systems, ensuring that rapid technological advancement is matched with robust safety measures.

Alaa Khaled, Global Ambassador for the Global Council for Responsible AI and Cybersecurity Director at Maaden, stressed the importance of preparedness in crisis management.

“We must be ready for every possible scenario,” she said, citing lessons learned from the global COVID-19 pandemic. Khaled advocated for hybrid systems combining open-source and vendor models, emphasizing that strong cybersecurity practices can coexist with innovation.

Martin Jackson, Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality Director at Capital Metro Company, discussed the role of predictive analytics and AI in balancing modernization with passenger safety.

“Technology can sometimes falter,” he said, “but our systems are designed with safety as the top priority.” Jackson described Riyadh’s metro as “a closed and secure system,” highlighting its importance in facilitating transportation during major upcoming events like the AFC Asian Cup 2027 and the FIFA World Cup 2034.

Jackson also revealed that the Riyadh Metro incorporates in-house language models to process data securely, avoiding external vulnerabilities while improving operational efficiency.

“Railways have existed for over 150 years, but predictive analytics now allows us to manage risk intelligently and embrace innovation confidently,” he said.

In a significant cultural milestone, the conference saw the signing of an agreement between the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts and the Saudi Railway Company.

The partnership aims to integrate traditional Saudi arts within national transport systems, empowering local artisans and showcasing the richness of the Kingdom’s heritage through joint workshops and cultural initiatives.

As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its railway infrastructure and adopt next-generation technologies, the sector stands as a model for how innovation, safety, and culture can coexist harmoniously.

The discussions at the Riyadh conference reinforced that railways are not just a means of transport — they are a vital link in driving industrial growth, enhancing connectivity, and shaping the sustainable future envisioned under Saudi Vision 2030.

While the pace marked a slight moderation from the previous quarter’s 5.2%, the figures underline China’s resilience amid shifting global conditions and domestic adjustments.

Economists view the data as a sign that China’s recovery remains intact, despite headwinds from a property market slowdown, trade tensions, and sluggish consumer demand.

The country’s strong industrial output and export diversification have helped sustain momentum, signaling Beijing’s ability to balance short-term challenges with its long-term policy goals.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the economy grew 1.1% quarter-on-quarter, surpassing expectations of 0.8% growth and reflecting continued improvement in production and investment activity.

Industrial production rose 6.5% in September, its highest level in three months, driven by manufacturing and high-tech sectors.

While retail sales growth eased slightly to 3.0%, policymakers remain focused on strengthening domestic consumption through gradual reforms, employment support, and measures to stabilize the housing market.

Analysts note that confidence is expected to improve as the government continues to emphasize sustainable and high-quality development rather than short-term stimulus.

Economists, including Lynn Song, chief economist for Greater China at ING, noted that the growth trajectory aligns well with policy goals. “With China on track to hit this year’s growth target, we could see less urgency for large-scale stimulus, allowing policymakers to focus on long-term structural reforms,” Song said.

Despite global uncertainties, China’s export performance has demonstrated adaptability and resilience. Although shipments to the United States fell 27% in September, exports to the European Union, Southeast Asia, and Africa surged by 14%, 15.6%, and 56.4%, respectively.

This diversification shows China’s growing engagement with emerging markets and its efforts to strengthen trade networks beyond traditional partners.

China’s manufacturing and innovation sectors continue to be pivotal in driving the economy. The upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan, currently under discussion by Chinese leaders, is expected to emphasize high-tech industries, green energy, and advanced manufacturing, reinforcing the nation’s ambition to transition towards a more innovation-driven economy.

Meanwhile, Beijing’s cautious approach to fiscal and monetary policy has aimed to balance growth and stability. Modest stimulus measures, such as targeted credit support for small businesses and infrastructure projects, have been implemented to bolster demand without adding excess debt.

The government’s broader objective remains long-term economic rebalancing—shifting from export- and property-led growth toward domestic consumption, technological advancement, and sustainability.

The recent policy discussions surrounding pension reform and housing market stabilization reflect this focus.

Observers also note that the ongoing political and economic dialogues between China and major economies, including the United States, may help ease trade frictions and foster a more stable environment for investment and growth.

A planned meeting between Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in South Korea is expected to provide an opportunity for both nations to recalibrate economic cooperation.

Despite the slower pace, the third-quarter data highlights positive fundamentals—steady output, diversified trade, and policy discipline—keeping China on a solid growth path.

The country’s capacity to manage short-term pressures while advancing long-term objectives continues to reassure investors and global markets.

As industrial production strengthens and policy support remains steady, China’s economic outlook for the final quarter of 2025 appears stable.

Analysts expect continued focus on innovation, green transition, and structural upgrades, ensuring that China remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

With growth anchored around 5%, China’s policymakers are taking a measured, forward-looking approach, prioritizing sustainability, resilience, and technological progress—key ingredients for long-term prosperity.