Why young Saudis should consider a career in consulting

Special Why young Saudis should consider a career in consulting
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Updated 12 August 2024
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Why young Saudis should consider a career in consulting

Why young Saudis should consider a career in consulting
  • Consulting offers valuable experiences, develops problem-solving skills, brings networking opportunities

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is undergoing an ambitious transformation, thanks to Saudi Vision 2030. The initiative has boosted the growth of the consulting industry, creating new opportunities in areas such as digital transformation, sustainability, infrastructure development, and economic diversification.

As a result, consulting has become an increasingly attractive career for young Saudi graduates, who recognize the opportunities in this field.

Mohammed Al-Abdullah, a young consultant at Jacobs, is advising fresh graduates to consider the route for their careers. “Working as a consultant in Saudi Arabia offers a unique set of experiences and opportunities compared to other countries or regions,” he said.

“In Saudi Arabia, the business environment is highly relationship-oriented, and building trust and strong personal relationships with clients is critical.”

Al-Abdullah, who previously worked in the US, returned to Saudi Arabia in 2021 to contribute to the ongoing transformation. During his time as a process manufacturing manager at a steel company in Riyadh, he collaborated with consulting giants McKinsey to oversee an Industry 4.0 transition, which sparked his excitement about consulting and digital transformation.

He subsequently joined Jacobs’ strategic consulting advisory team and the smart city team, while also taking on the role of Riyadh office lead. “The consulting industry in Saudi Arabia has seen significant evolution in recent years, creating numerous opportunities for young professionals,” Al Abdullah said.

Jacobs, for example, has a graduate development program that helps young Saudis interested in consulting to develop the essential skills and knowledge they need. It provides them with practical experience, exposure to the industry, and guidance from experienced consultants.

According to Al-Abdullah, success as an engineering consultant requires a blend of technical expertise and soft skills such as engineering knowledge, project management, analytical skills, technical writing, effective communication, client management and teamwork. These can be developed through education, training, internships, graduate programs, networking and mentorship.

With the rapid growth of the consulting industry in Saudi Arabia and the opportunities presented by Saudi Vision 2030, young Saudi graduates would do well to consider a career there.

Hashim Jambi, a 26-year-old technology consultant at PwC, is an expert in organizational technology, including digital transformation, cybersecurity and IT.

“What I enjoy most is staying current with emerging technologies that can enhance an organization’s daily workflow. Additionally, the opportunity to interact with experts in the field provides valuable insights into best practices and market improvements,” said Jambi.

“The initial learning curve is particularly steep, allowing for fast knowledge acquisition and significant professional growth. Moreover, you develop strong networking skills by meeting diverse professionals who can have a substantial impact on your career.”  

Jambi believes a career in consulting offers young Saudis valuable developmental experiences at the start of their professional journeys.

“As a consultant, you'll have the opportunity to interact with high-level executives and experts across various fields, learning from them in a way that provides an excellent foundation for your career,” he explained.

Jambi said other benefits included exposure to diverse industries, networking opportunities, early responsibility and continuous learning experiences. These helped young consultants to “develop critical adaptability and strategic thinking skills, equipping them to become successful leaders at a young age.”

The variety of experiences and challenges also “builds resilience and innovation, further preparing them for future leadership roles and a successful career path,” he said.

Another successful Saudi consultant is Mala Alahmadi, who leads Jacobs’ strategic consulting social value advisory group in the Middle East region. Alahmadi started her career as a civil and environmental engineer on projects with nonprofit organizations, then transitioned to roles with government and international organizations.

Throughout her diverse experience, Alahmadi has led transformational initiatives and projects to achieve sustainable outcomes, solved critical natural resources issues, and developed strategies, policies and action plans in several countries.

She has also delivered sustainable and climate-resilient solutions for development projects, organizations, businesses and developing countries, using her skills to improve communities’ quality of life and help mitigate climate change.

Alahmadi holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Kansas and a master’s degree from Stanford University. At Jacobs, she leads a team focused on “enhancing social value across our work in the built environment, planning and economics, and sectors such as the health, housing, education, transportation, and infrastructure.”

When asked what advice she would give young Saudis considering a career in consulting, she said: “Be your authentic self, connect with others, ask questions, and stay focused on your vision and the higher purpose. Always push your boundaries to learn and grow.”  

Sadeem Safar Al-Sofyani also shared her experience in the consulting field. “In 2019, I joined Boston Consulting Group as a business analyst, a decision that has paved the way for my success,” said the 26-year-old. “The experience was challenging but rewarding, as I quickly learned key consulting skills like problem-solving, communication, and delivering solutions.”

She found the networking opportunities invaluable, boosting her professional reputation and opening doors: “Consulting firms are recognized for preparing graduates for any situation, as the work focuses on problem-solving and analysis across diverse fields.”

Al-Sofyani added: “I encourage young Saudi students to consider starting their careers in consulting as it provides unparalleled experience, even if it’s not a lifelong commitment.”

The exposure to diverse industries and the opportunity to work with high-level executives and subject matter experts were among the significant benefits, she said: “The steep learning curve allows for rapid skill development and professional growth, which can set young professionals up for success, whether they choose to remain in consulting or pursue other paths.”

Al-Sofyani’s experience highlights the value that a consulting role can provide. The transferable skills, networking opportunities, and exposure to a wide range of industries make it an attractive option, even if it is not a long-term career choice.


Saudi Arabia pursues new fuel technologies to decarbonize aviation

Saudi Arabia pursues new fuel technologies to decarbonize aviation
Updated 45 min 53 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia pursues new fuel technologies to decarbonize aviation

Saudi Arabia pursues new fuel technologies to decarbonize aviation
  • Mohammad Altayyar: The Kingdom is actively pursuing innovative technologies that will enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions
  • Altayyar: These initiatives not only support global climate goals but also establish the Kingdom as a leader in developing balanced, cleaner energy solutions

BAKU: Saudi Arabia is pursuing new technologies to improve fuel efficiency and decarbonize the aviation sector, an oil sustainability program spokesperson told Arab News.

Mohammad Altayyar, program director of the Saudi Ministry of Energy’s oil sustainability program, spoke to Arab News during the COP29 UN climate conference about the Kingdom’s efforts to improve sustainability in aviation.

He said: “Today we stand with an opportunity, an opportunity to contribute to the global efforts in addressing climate change.

“With the aviation sector contributing to 2 percent of global emissions, and with countries pursuing sustainable development, their travel demand continues to grow, and nations continue to work on meeting the climate challenge.”

Altayyar highlighted that discussions at COP29 exemplified the ministry’s collective commitment to tackling pressing issues through dialogue on advances in aviation fuels.

He further emphasized Saudi Arabia’s progress in the aviation sector, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030.

“Saudi Arabia as a global key player in the global energy landscape making significant strides and pioneering the promotion of sustainable practices within the aviation sector, upholds the commitments of Vision 2030, which clearly outline an ambitious framework for its economic diversification and environmental stewardship.

“The Kingdom is actively pursuing innovative technologies that will enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, working toward long-term global objectives.

“These initiatives not only support global climate goals but also establish the Kingdom as a leader in developing balanced, cleaner energy solutions,” Altayyar said.

In other developments at COP29, the Saudi Ministry of Energy signed an executive program for cooperation in renewable energy with counterparts from three Asian nations: Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

The program emphasizes the formation of strategic partnerships to explore regional power grid interconnections powered by renewable energy. It also aims to boost the efficiency of energy infrastructure and integrate renewable projects into the national grids of the participating countries.

Additionally, the Ministry of Energy observed the signing of two strategic agreements between Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power and various entities to advance renewable energy initiatives in Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.

The first agreement focused on collaboration with the Uzbek Ministry of Energy to develop battery energy storage systems with a capacity of up to 2 GWh, aimed at improving grid stability.

The second agreement was a memorandum of understanding with Azerbaijan’s oil company SOCAR and the UAE’s Masdar to develop offshore wind power projects in the Caspian Sea with a capacity of up to 3.5 GW.

In conjunction with the executive program, ACWA Power’s Khyzi Absheron wind power project in Azerbaijan, slated for a capacity of 240 MW, is expected to be operational by the first quarter of 2026.


International Maritime Organization welcomes Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative

International Maritime Organization welcomes Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative
Updated 21 November 2024
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International Maritime Organization welcomes Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative

International Maritime Organization welcomes Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative
  • The Kingdom secured a place on the IMO’s 40-member council for 2024 and 2025

RIYADH: The International Maritime Organization accepted on Wednesday the credentials of Saudi Arabia’s first permanent representative, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez welcomed Kamal bin Mohammed Al-Junaidi to the organization during a meeting in London. The event was attended by the Saudi deputy transport minister, Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih.

The UK-based UN agency is the global maritime authority that sets international standards designed to ensure the safety and security of maritime transport. 

It also aims to reduce pollution from ships and implement initiatives that help preserve the marine environment and protect nature.

Saudi Arabia won a majority vote in December to become a member of the IMO’s 40-member council for 2024 and 2025.

Al-Junaidi will represent Saudi Arabia during IMO events, including the signing of maritime agreements, treaties, and codes.

He will highlight Riyadh’s efforts and plans to develop its maritime transport industry and international trade.

By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to handle 40 million containers a year, facilitate cargo-handling procedures and develop marine tourism through cruise ships and coastal transportation.

The representation at the IMO highlights the Kingdom’s strategic maritime location, including its coastline along the Red Sea through which 13 percent of global trade passes.


International sustainability accreditation for Buraidah Oasis

International sustainability accreditation for Buraidah Oasis
Updated 21 November 2024
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International sustainability accreditation for Buraidah Oasis

International sustainability accreditation for Buraidah Oasis
  • Buraidah Oasis’ carbon footprint report, certified by a German government board, revealed that it has zero emissions
  • Oasis is home to a million trees, surrounding a lake holding 86,000 cubic meters of treated water

RIYADH: Buraidah Oasis has received international accreditation for its water and carbon sustainability, reported Saudi Press Agency.

The site’s carbon footprint report, certified by a German government board, revealed it has zero emissions and serves as a giant reservoir that absorbs carbon from the atmosphere at a rate of 0.12 percent per year.

The certificate of accreditation was presented to National Water Company CEO Fuad Al-Sheikh Mubarak.

As the first anniversary since its launch approaches, a spokesperson for the National Water Company-sponsored project described the oasis as one of the Kingdom’s “most important projects related to environmental sustainability efforts.”

The Buraidah Oasis is home to a million trees, surrounding a lake holding 86,000 cubic meters of treated water produced from the National Water Company’s plant — part of its vision for sustainability and environmental regeneration.

Irrigated with recycled water from the treatment plant, the project forms part of the company’s contribution to the Saudi Green Initiative. 

A reem antelope sanctuary was recently opened in the oasis, with 15 antelopes recently released into the sanctuary which occupies an area of 50,000 square meters.

Earlier in October, Mohammed Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife, said that the biodiversity of the oasis was assessed regularly to determine the importance of releasing endangered species, including both resident and migratory animals.


Tuwaiq Academy becomes authorized Google Cloud training partner

Tuwaiq Academy becomes authorized Google Cloud training partner
Updated 21 November 2024
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Tuwaiq Academy becomes authorized Google Cloud training partner

Tuwaiq Academy becomes authorized Google Cloud training partner

RIYADH: The leading Saudi programming trainer Tuwaiq Academy has been selected as a Google Cloud Authorized Training Partner to introduce boot camps and programs featuring professional certifications.

A number of the academy’s staff members have received certification in instructing Google Cloud’s cloud computing technologies and services.

Google Cloud’s endorsement of Tuwaiq Academy highlights the institution’s adherence to worldwide standards in fostering expertise in cloud infrastructure, data science, machine learning and application development while providing professional certifications, said CEO of Tuwaiq Academy Abdulaziz Alhammadi.

These certifications include certified professional cloud architect, certified professional data engineer, certified professional cloud developer, certified professional cloud security engineer and certified professional machine learning engineer.

This milestone follows the staff’s acquisition of various professional certifications in teaching cutting-edge technologies across multiple cloud computing disciplines.

Alhammadi highlighted the academy’s dedication to forging partnerships with prominent global organizations to offer professional boot camps and programs within an environment equipped with the latest technologies.

The objective is to cultivate outstanding national talents capable of developing innovative solutions across diverse sectors.

Tuwaiq Academy stands out as the first of its kind to offer a multitude of boot camps and programs in partnership with leading global entities, benefiting more than 1,000 trainees daily, Alhammadi said.

Founded in 2019, it provides a range of training and educational courses in cybersecurity, programming and software development in a bid to position Saudi Arabia among the ranks of technologically advanced countries.

The academy employs a practical application-based learning methodology to remain current with modern technological advancements and align with job market demands.


KSrelief volunteer medical concludes in Kyrgyzstan

KSrelief volunteer medical concludes in Kyrgyzstan
Updated 21 November 2024
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KSrelief volunteer medical concludes in Kyrgyzstan

KSrelief volunteer medical concludes in Kyrgyzstan

RIYADH: A volunteer medical project for open-heart surgery and catheterization by Saudi aid agency KSrelief in Kyrgyzstan has ended.

The campaign in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital, ran from Nov. 9-16 and involved 26 volunteers from various medical specialties.

The team examined 100 patients, conducted 15 open-heart operations and performed 75 therapeutic and diagnostic catheterizations, all of which were successful.

The project was part of several volunteer medical initiatives focusing on heart surgeries.