Visionary leadership and tremendous achievements 
As Saudi Arabia celebrates its 94th National Day, the nation reflects on its rich history, cultural heritage, and achievements under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
This day not only marks the Kingdom’s unity but also showcases the dynamic transformation driven by Vision 2030. Recent ambitious projects and initiatives embody the Kingdom’s progressive vision and commitment to innovation, sustainability, and growth.
This National Day highlights several landmark projects spanning culture, tourism, urban development, and technology, serving as key pillars in building a brighter, more prosperous future.
Leading our conversation is the Diriyah project, the cradle of Saudi Arabia, bearing 600 years of history. The Diriyah Gate project, which includes the historic At-Turaif district — a UNESCO heritage site — has attracted over SR236 billion ($62.8 billion) in investments, transforming it into a premier cultural and historical destination.
The project aims to restore the region’s historical significance while establishing a center for tourism and culture, attracting millions of visitors worldwide. It embodies the Kingdom’s efforts to preserve heritage while embracing modernity, using clean energy and adhering to global environmental standards. A notable feature is that visitors can walk across 100 percent of the project area, aligning with Vision 2030’s goal for a healthier society.
Sindalah is poised to become a premier tourism destination in NEOM, the future megacity of Saudi Arabia. It will offer top-tier entertainment, hospitality, and leisure services, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a global tourism hub. Developed in harmony with nature, Sindalah showcases Saudi Arabia’s dedication to sustainable tourism.
AlUla, an ancient city with breathtaking landscapes and archaeological treasures, is central to Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage. Under the Saudi leadership, AlUla is evolving into a leading global destination for culture, history, and ecotourism, drawing explorers and history enthusiasts worldwide.
Soudah Peaks, an ambitious project in the Asir region, focuses on mountain tourism and nature conservation. It aims to create a luxury mountain destination that fosters ecotourism while preserving the region’s unique landscape, allowing visitors to experience Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty.
Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, Saudi Arabia is embracing a future of innovation, sustainability, and global leadership.
The Line in NEOM is a groundbreaking urban project designed as a linear city that will redefine urban living. With no cars, streets, or carbon emissions, it offers a futuristic vision of sustainable living and reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability.
A major initiative in Riyadh aims to promote outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle, spanning multiple neighborhoods with bike paths, walking trails, and recreational areas, making Riyadh one of the world’s most livable cities. This aligns with the Kingdom’s vision to create a vibrant community.
King Salman Park is set to become the world’s largest urban park, a green oasis in Riyadh featuring open spaces, sports facilities, and art galleries. As a cultural and entertainment hub, it offers residents and visitors a space to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing citizens’ quality of life.
In line with its commitment to sustainability, Saudi Arabia is investing in renewable energy through projects like Al-Shaabiya Solar Power Plant, a key step toward reducing reliance on oil and embracing cleaner energy sources. This initiative highlights the Kingdom’s role in leading global sustainable development.
The New Square Project in Riyadh is an urban development initiative designed to create a modern, sustainable urban area with residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. Incorporating the latest smart city technologies, it aims to enhance residents’ quality of life, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s vision for urban modernization.
As Saudi Arabia looks to the future, the Saudi Astronaut Program is a bold initiative aimed at positioning the Kingdom as a leader in space exploration. It symbolizes the nation’s ambition to be at the forefront of scientific discovery, with Saudi astronauts embodying the country’s pioneering spirit on the global stage.
The CEER electric vehicle project is a significant step toward sustainable transportation innovation in Saudi Arabia. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s goals to diversify its economy, reduce emissions, and become a leader in the automotive industry.
Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, Saudi Arabia is embracing a future of innovation, sustainability, and global leadership. Vision 2030, the core plan to diversify the Kingdom’s economy, reduce oil dependence, and enhance citizens’ quality of life, drives this transformation.
The ambitious projects highlighted here are more than infrastructure developments; they symbolize a new era of progress, prosperity, and global influence. These initiatives are reshaping Saudi Arabia, positioning it as a global hub for tourism, business, and culture. As the Kingdom advances its Vision 2030 strategy, the world witnesses a nation deeply rooted in heritage while boldly embracing the future.
Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day shows the Kingdom’s dedication to modernization, sustainability, and innovation shines through the numerous projects shaping its future. From cultural preservation to technological progress, Saudi Arabia is on a path to global leadership, driven by a clear vision and determination. This day honors the nation’s past while celebrating the bright future ahead for the Kingdom and its people.
• Saad Majdy Baslom has more than 10 years of experience in fields such as health tourism, wellness services, management, regulation, and policy as a technical affairs director in complementary medicine practices. He holds an MIT leadership and management certificate, a doctorate in traditional Chinese medicine, a master’s in Chinese herbology, and a master’s in acupuncture. X: @SaadBaslom
