Background

Established to unify and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s development financing ecosystem, NDF plays a vital role in mobilizing strategic funding across key sectors. As Saudi Arabia pushes forward with its Vision 2030 transformation plan, efficient global investment management has become more essential than ever.
Northern Trust, a globally recognized custodian and investment-management institution, brings decades of expertise in handling complex portfolios for sovereign funds, pensions, and major financial entities.

Key Highlights of the Agreement

• Value of the MoU: SAR 12 billion (USD 3.2 billion).

• Investment Management: Northern Trust will oversee a global passive equity portfolio for NDF.

• Custodian Role: Northern Trust becomes the official custodian for NDF’s assets, ensuring secure recording, reporting, and safeguarding.

• Working Group Formation: A joint team will be established to explore new investment strategies and innovative financial products.

• Objective: To enhance efficiency, diversify assets, and maximize long-term, sustainable returns.

Why This Agreement Matters

1. Strengthening Vision 2030 Goals

This partnership directly supports Vision 2030’s mission to grow Saudi Arabia’s financial sector and improve the long-term sustainability of development funds.

2. Improving Transparency & Operational Efficiency

By consolidating custodial duties under Northern Trust, NDF enhances transparency, simplifies asset oversight, and reduces administrative burden.

3. Broadening Global Investment Reach

Managing a global passive equity portfolio diversifies Saudi assets, helping balance risk amid global market volatility.

4. Building Institutional Capacity

With a world-class financial partner, NDF accelerates its transformation into a globally competitive development finance institution.

Opportunities & Challenges

Opportunities

• Access to global markets and investment innovation

• Improved long-term returns for development initiatives

• Stronger governance and risk-management structures

• Enhanced credibility in the global financial community

Challenges

• Market volatility affecting passive equity investments

• Complex implementation of new investment products

• Ensuring continued alignment with national development priorities

What This Means for Saudi Arabia

This agreement positions Saudi Arabia as a forward-looking player in global finance. By leveraging Northern Trust’s expertise, NDF reinforces its ability to channel resources into key development sectors while protecting national assets.
It also signals the Kingdom’s intent to integrate more deeply with international financial markets, setting the stage for sustainable economic growth and stronger global partnerships.

Conclusion

The $3.2 billion agreement between the Saudi National Development Fund and Northern Trust is more than a financial deal — it’s a strategic milestone. By enhancing investment management, strengthening governance, and aligning with Vision 2030, this partnership will help shape Saudi Arabia’s long-term development strategy and global financial presence.

Key Takeaways

• NDF and Northern Trust sign a $3.2 billion investment and custodial agreement.

• Northern Trust will manage a global passive equity portfolio and safeguard assets.

• The deal improves transparency, governance, and investment diversification.

• It strongly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 financial transformation.

The heart of Saudi Arabia is charging up once again as Riyadh prepares to host the fourth edition of the EV Auto Show 2025 — the Kingdom’s largest exhibition dedicated to electric mobility and sustainable transportation.

Set to take place from October 27–29, 2025, at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the event promises an electrifying experience with new car launches, cutting-edge technology showcases, and futuristic mobility solutions.

A Global Gathering of Innovation

The EV Auto Show Riyadh 2025 will bring together over 120 exhibitors from 35+ countries, all under one roof. Leading electric vehicle manufacturers, charging infrastructure providers, and clean energy innovators will showcase the latest advancements shaping the EV industry.

Among the major highlights:

• The luxury SUV “ROX ADAMAS” will make its official Kingdom debut.

• Lucid Motors will unveil its new flagship electric SUV model.

• Exhibitors will present the newest battery technologies, fast-charging systems, and smart mobility apps driving the future of transport.

Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030

The event perfectly aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and promote sustainable development.

With local EV production increasing and charging infrastructure expanding, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a leader in clean mobility across the Middle East.

Recent research even suggests that 40% of Saudi consumers are now considering buying an EV, compared to less than 1% two years ago — a clear sign of how fast the market is growing.

What Visitors Can Expect

The EV Auto Show is more than just an exhibition — it’s an immersive experience for both industry professionals and the public. Attendees can look forward to:

✅ Live demonstrations of new EV and hybrid models
✅ Interactive charging station displays and battery tech showcases
✅ Conferences and expert panels on EV adoption, financing, and infrastructure
✅ Networking opportunities with automakers, investors, and policymakers

Building a Complete EV Ecosystem

Beyond cars, the show emphasizes the entire EV ecosystem, including:

• Battery recycling solutions

• Local workforce training initiatives

• Smart city integration

• Digital mobility platforms

This broad focus ensures that the EV transformation extends far beyond vehicles — into manufacturing, education, and innovation sectors.

Event Details

📍 Venue: Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center
📆 Dates: October 27–29, 2025
💻 Registration: Free for visitors via the official EV Auto Show website

Final Thoughts

The EV Auto Show Riyadh 2025 isn’t just a car event — it’s a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s sustainable future. With world-class launches, global exhibitors, and a strong commitment to innovation, this show highlights how the Kingdom is charging ahead toward a cleaner, smarter, and more connected future of mobility.

Saudi Arabia has taken another bold step toward building a knowledge-driven economy with the launch of the “Mostaqbali” program, a groundbreaking national initiative that aims to train 50,000 Saudi citizens in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital skills.

This visionary move strengthens the Kingdom’s pursuit of Vision 2030, placing innovation, digital transformation, and youth empowerment at the core of its economic development.

What Is the Mostaqbali Program?

The word Mostaqbali translates to “My Future”, reflecting the program’s mission to equip Saudi citizens with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Developed by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) in collaboration with Oracle and the National eLearning Center (NeLC), the initiative leverages the FutureX platform to deliver specialized online learning experiences accessible across the Kingdom.

 Program Highlights

 Why the Program Matters

1. Bridging the Skills Gap
   The initiative addresses the growing demand for tech and AI specialists, ensuring that Saudi citizens are prepared for the jobs of the future.
2. Supporting Vision 2030
   By investing in digital education, the Kingdom moves closer to achieving its goal of becoming a regional hub for innovation and technology.
3. Encouraging Gender Inclusion
   Women are strongly encouraged to participate, reflecting the government’s focus on empowerment and equal opportunity.
4. Building a Competitive Workforce
   Upskilling the local population helps reduce reliance on foreign expertise and creates a self-sustaining digital ecosystem.

 Strategic Impact

The Mostaqbali program represents more than just training — it’s a national transformation strategy.
By equipping tens of thousands of Saudis with AI and digital skills, the initiative will:

• Foster innovation and entrepreneurship across industries
• Boost employment opportunities in high-demand tech sectors
• Strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading digital economy in the Middle East
• Encourage global companies to invest in the Kingdom’s growing digital landscape

 Challenges and the Road Ahead

While the potential is immense, successful execution will depend on:

• Ensuring equal access to participants in remote areas
• Maintaining high-quality instruction at a large scale
• Providing career pathways after certification
• Continuously updating curriculum to match evolving technology trends

The long-term success of Mostaqbali will be measured by how effectively these new skills translate into sustainable job growth and innovation-led industries.

The Bigger Picture

The Mostaqbali initiative perfectly embodies the spirit of Vision 2030 — a Saudi Arabia that is globally competitive, digitally empowered, and driven by the creativity and talent of its people.

By prioritizing digital literacy and AI education, the Kingdom is not just adapting to the future — it’s defining it.

 Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia’s launch of Mostaqbali is a powerful statement:
The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.

Through this initiative, the Kingdom is empowering its citizens with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead in the digital age — transforming both lives and the nation’s technological landscape.

Introduction

Canada and Saudi Arabia are strengthening ties in the field of innovation, technology, and investment. From September 28 to 30, 2025, Canada’s Innovation Delegation visited Riyadh to explore partnerships that go beyond traditional trade. The initiative, organized by Inovia Capital and the Embassy of Canada, brought together Canadian startups, venture capital firms, and research institutions to connect with Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding innovation ecosystem.

Why Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a massive transformation under Vision 2030, focusing on:

• Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation
• Green Technology and Smart Cities
• Investment Diversification
• Startup and Talent Development

The Kingdom’s commitment to technology makes it a natural partner for Canada, which is already recognized as a global leader in AI and research.

Key Engagements

During the delegation’s visit, Canadian representatives met with several influential Saudi entities, including:

• Public Investment Fund (PIF)
• Neom and Sanabil Investments
• King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)
• The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology
• The Garage (Saudi’s major innovation hub)

This created a platform for collaboration on projects ranging from enterprise AI to smart city initiatives.

Goals of the Delegation

1. Build Innovation Bridges – Connect Canadian expertise in AI and venture capital with Saudi Arabia’s emerging innovation landscape.
2. Support Responsible Growth – Align Canadian G7 priorities on ethical AI and digital governance with Vision 2030 goals.
3. Diversify Partnerships – Shift Canada–Saudi relations from resource trade to knowledge-driven sectors.
4. Nurture Talent Exchange – Explore opportunities for research collaboration and skilled workforce development.

Opportunities and Challenges

Opportunities:

• Expansion into the Middle Eastern market for Canadian firms.
• Saudi access to Canadian expertise in AI, machine learning, and R&D.
• Potential for joint investments and startup scaling.

Challenges:

• Aligning regulations and data governance frameworks.
• Adapting to cultural and business differences.
• Ensuring projects are inclusive, sustainable, and impactful.

What This Means Going Forward

This visit represents a strategic shift in global tech diplomacy, with Canada and Saudi Arabia working to establish long-term partnerships. Success will be measured through:

• Launch of joint pilot projects
• Investment commitments from both sides
• Growth in academic and research collaborations
• Development of talent pipelines and innovation hubs

Conclusion

The Canada–Saudi Arabia Innovation Delegation is more than a diplomatic mission—it is a bridge between two countries aiming to lead the future of technology. By combining Canada’s expertise in AI and Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, both nations are poised to create a lasting impact on the global innovation landscape.

What the Agreement Covers

The deal is more than just a headline — it includes:

• Introduction of eVTOL air taxis for passenger and cargo transport.
• Pilot trials and testing to ensure safety and efficiency.
•  Exploration of local manufacturing opportunities within Saudi Arabia.
•  Development of a regulatory framework for integrating flying cars into Saudi airspace.

Why It Matters

This development isn’t just about luxury — it has real impact:

1. Faster Urban Travel
   Air taxis can significantly reduce commute times in congested cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.
2. Boost to Tourism
   Tourists may soon enjoy futuristic aerial rides over landmarks and attractions.
3. Green and Sustainable
   Since eVTOLs are electric, they support the Kingdom’s efforts to cut carbon emissions and promote renewable energy.
4. Global Leadership
   By adopting flying cars early, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a pioneer in future mobility solutions.

The Road Ahead

The project will first go through regulatory approvals and trial phases. If successful, commercial operations could begin in the coming years — making flying cars a normal sight in Saudi skies by the early 2030s.

Conclusion

From smart cities like NEOM to futuristic air mobility, Saudi Arabia is not just preparing for the future — it’s creating it. This deal with EHang shows the Kingdom’s determination to lead in innovation, sustainability, and advanced mobility solutions under Vision 2030.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Gulf Research Center (GRC) recently hosted a high-level roundtable on “Saudi-German Relations”, bringing together diplomats, policymakers, and experts to strengthen dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Germany. The event highlighted opportunities for greater cooperation across diplomacy, trade, and policy.

Key Attendees

The roundtable, held at the GRC’s Riyadh office, featured distinguished participants including:

• Dr. Geza Andreas von Geyr, State Secretary of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, leading the German delegation.
• Experts, academics, and stakeholders with a strong focus on Saudi-German ties.
• Representatives from the Gulf Research Center, serving as hosts and facilitators of the discussion.

Topics of Discussion

1. Diplomatic Relations

The dialogue emphasized the growing importance of Saudi-German diplomacy. Germany’s role in European affairs and Saudi Arabia’s strategic leadership in the Gulf were identified as key areas of mutual interest.

2. Economic & Trade Partnerships

Participants explored opportunities for expanding trade, investment, and industrial collaboration. With Saudi Arabia advancing its Vision 2030 diversification plans and Germany’s global reputation for technology and manufacturing, both nations see strong potential for economic synergy.

3. Strategic & Political Cooperation

The roundtable also examined ways to align on regional and global issues, from political stability in the Middle East to energy security and climate change.

Why This Matters

This event reflects more than just diplomatic courtesy — it marks a growing institutionalization of Saudi-German relations. Key implications include:

• Strengthened Bilateral Momentum – A clear sign of rising cooperation between Riyadh and Berlin.
• Shaping Policy & Partnerships – A platform to build joint initiatives in areas such as energy transition, technology, and security.
• Regional & Global Impact – Deeper Saudi-German collaboration could influence broader Middle East–Europe relations.

Conclusion

The Saudi-German roundtable hosted by the Gulf Research Center demonstrates how dialogue is evolving into structured, strategic cooperation. Both countries are looking beyond traditional diplomacy, aiming to build long-term partnerships across diplomacy, economy, and global policy.

As Saudi Arabia continues its modernization under Vision 2030 and Germany seeks stronger engagement in the Middle East, this roundtable lays a solid foundation for collaboration that benefits not just the two nations, but also the wider region.

This October, Riyadh will become the global hub for healthcare leaders, innovators, and investors as the city hosts the 8th Global Health Exhibition 2025. Scheduled from October 27 to 30 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham, the event promises to highlight cutting-edge medical technologies, foster international collaboration, and showcase Saudi Arabia’s ambitious healthcare transformation under Vision 2030.

A Gathering of Global Scale

The exhibition will feature:

• 2,000+ exhibitors
• 500 international speakers
• 20+ country pavilions

This makes it one of the largest healthcare gatherings in the region, designed to encourage knowledge sharing and explore innovative health solutions.

Theme: “Invest in Health”

Held under the theme “Invest in Health,” the event is supported by the Ministry of Health and the Health Sector Transformation Program. It aims to position healthcare not only as a public service but also as a strategic sector for economic growth, investment, and innovation.

Showcasing Breakthroughs

The Global Health Exhibition will spotlight some of the most advanced medical breakthroughs, including:

• Robotic heart transplant procedures
• CAR-T cell therapy for cancer
• Pharmacogenetics for personalized medicine
• Mobile Stroke Units for rapid emergency care
• Virtual reality-powered medical training

These innovations highlight how technology and medicine are merging to redefine patient care.

Driving Vision 2030

The expo aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which focuses on creating a sustainable, tech-driven, and patient-centered healthcare system. By combining investment opportunities with policy reforms, the event reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to transforming healthcare into a world-class sector.

Platforms for Networking and Learning

Alongside exhibitions, the event will feature:

• Leaders’ Summit
• Digital Health Forum
• Medical Excellence Forum
• CME-accredited workshops

These programs will allow healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, and students to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborations.

Why This Expo Matters

• Global Collaboration: Over 20 international pavilions, reflecting growing worldwide participation.
• Expanded Scale: Exhibition space has increased by 40% compared to last year.
• Policy Meets Practice: From AI-driven diagnostics to healthcare investment strategies, the event brings real-world solutions to the forefront.

Conclusion

The Global Health Exhibition 2025 in Riyadh is more than an event—it is a movement toward redefining global healthcare. With its mix of innovation, investment, and policy alignment, the expo is set to leave a lasting mark on the future of medicine. Riyadh is not just hosting the world—it is leading the way in shaping tomorrow’s healthcare.

Introduction

In a landmark move, the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia have signed a joint economic partnership worth £360 million (around $445 million). The deal aims to strengthen cooperation in clean energy, financial services, and professional sectors, reflecting both nations’ ambitions to drive sustainable growth and innovation.

Key Highlights of the Deal

• Total Investment: $445 million (approx.)
• Jobs Created: 187 new positions – 97 in the UK and 90 in Saudi Arabia
• Focus Sectors:
  • Clean energy projects and renewable technology
  • Financial services and fintech collaboration
  • Professional and consulting services

What This Means for Saudi Arabia

For the Kingdom, this partnership aligns closely with Vision 2030, its long-term roadmap to diversify the economy beyond oil. The investment will:

• Accelerate clean energy adoption
• Expand financial service capabilities
• Position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for innovation and sustainability

Benefits for the UK

On the UK side, this collaboration opens doors to:

• Increased trade opportunities in the Middle East
• Stronger business ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies
• New investments in renewable and green technologies

Why This Partnership Matters

This deal is more than a financial transaction — it is a strategic alliance. It highlights how nations are working together to tackle climate challenges, promote technological advancement, and build sustainable economies. The UK–Saudi partnership demonstrates the shift toward global cooperation in shaping the future of clean energy and finance.

Looking Ahead

As the projects unfold, both countries are expected to see significant economic benefits. The partnership sets the stage for:

• Sustainable development through renewable energy initiatives
• Job creation across multiple industries
• Strengthened bilateral relations between the UK and Saudi Arabia

This is a win-win collaboration that reinforces Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and provides the UK with opportunities in a dynamic and expanding market.

Conclusion

The $445 million UK–Saudi economic partnership signals a future where innovation, sustainability, and cooperation drive progress. By joining forces, both nations are paving the way for greener economies and stronger global trade ties.

Introduction

FedEx, a global leader in logistics and transportation, has expanded its presence in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the Kingdom’s rising role in international trade. This development comes as Saudi Arabia pushes forward with its ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, aiming to diversify the economy and enhance its global connectivity.

FedEx Expansion in the Kingdom

The expansion of FedEx operations is set to:

• Improve logistics and supply chain efficiency.
• Facilitate faster cross-border trade.
• Provide enhanced shipping solutions to businesses of all sizes.

With Saudi Arabia’s central location linking Asia, Europe, and Africa, FedEx is strategically positioning itself to support the Kingdom’s growing trade ambitions.

Boosting Economic Diversification

Saudi Arabia is actively moving beyond its oil-dependent economy by investing in logistics infrastructure and digital transformation. The FedEx expansion complements these efforts by:

• Supporting the flow of goods to global markets.
• Helping businesses reach new international customers.
• Reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s status as a key logistics hub in the Middle East.

Empowering Local Businesses and SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s economic growth. With FedEx’s enhanced presence, SMEs gain access to:

• Faster and more reliable delivery services.
• Broader international coverage.
• Competitive opportunities in global trade markets.

This will allow local businesses to scale their operations and expand their reach beyond borders.

Impact on Trade Growth

The FedEx expansion is not just a corporate move—it is a strong signal of confidence in Saudi Arabia’s trade growth. It reinforces the Kingdom’s ability to serve as a gateway for international commerce, benefiting industries across multiple sectors.

Conclusion

As Saudi Arabia continues its journey toward economic transformation, partnerships with global logistics players like FedEx are crucial. The expansion not only strengthens FedEx’s global footprint but also accelerates the Kingdom’s emergence as a world-class hub for trade and investment.

Introduction

In a landmark development on August 29, 2025, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment (MISA) and Hong Kong’s Belt and Road Office (BRO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in infrastructure and professional services. This is the first infrastructure-focused agreement between Hong Kong and an overseas economy, aligning Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals with the global Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Background

• Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030: A national plan to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, boost investment, and reduce reliance on oil revenues.
• Hong Kong’s Belt and Road Office: Established to deepen cooperation under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, fostering connectivity and professional services in overseas markets.

By coming together, both parties aim to leverage their strengths—Saudi Arabia’s large-scale development projects and Hong Kong’s expertise in finance, engineering, and legal services.

Key Highlights of the MoU

1. Information Sharing
   • Saudi Arabia will provide details about its infrastructure and construction projects.
   • Hong Kong firms will gain direct access to Saudi investment opportunities.
2. Professional Services Access
   • Hong Kong’s engineering, legal, and financial services firms will have smoother entry into the Saudi market.
   • This boosts opportunities for cross-border partnerships and knowledge transfer.
3. High-Level Endorsement
   • The signing was witnessed by John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of Hong Kong, and Khalid Al-Falih, Saudi Investment Minister.
   • Their presence underscores the strategic importance of this cooperation.

Why This Matters

• For Saudi Arabia: Access to world-class professional expertise to support Vision 2030 projects.
• For Hong Kong: A gateway to one of the world’s fastest-growing investment markets.
• For the Region: A symbol of closer ties between the Middle East and Asia, reinforcing economic integration through the Belt and Road framework.

Strategic Impact

This MoU is more than a formal agreement—it’s a bridge between two global hubs. It paves the way for:

• Joint infrastructure ventures.
• Knowledge and technology exchange.
• A deeper alignment of national and global development agendas.

By combining Saudi Arabia’s development ambitions with Hong Kong’s financial and professional service strengths, both sides are setting the stage for long-term cooperation and mutual growth.

Conclusion

The signing of this MoU marks a turning point in Saudi–Hong Kong relations, opening doors for investments, partnerships, and professional services that will benefit both economies. As Saudi Arabia accelerates its Vision 2030 journey, Hong Kong’s expertise will play a crucial role in shaping world-class infrastructure and services.

This agreement is not just about projects—it’s about building sustainable partnerships for the future.