Preserving the Past, Building the Future: Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and business synergy

Preserving the Past, Building the Future: Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and business synergy
Above, a tourist poses in front of a rose-colored sandstone in Madain Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage site, near Saudi Arabia’s northwestern town of AlUla. (AFP)
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Updated 09 November 2024
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Preserving the Past, Building the Future: Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and business synergy

Preserving the Past, Building the Future: Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and business synergy

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia embarks on an ambitious journey toward a thriving economy, the nation is uniquely positioned to harmonize the conservation of its rich cultural heritage with the development of vibrant business opportunities.

The Kingdom is committed to various initiatives, such as cultural tourism projects and the revival of artisanal craftsmanship, which not only safeguard its diverse cultural tapestry but also drive economic growth.

This approach showcases the symbiotic relationship between tradition and innovation, demonstrating how honoring cultural heritage can foster sustainable development and enhance Saudi Arabia's global influence.

Under the Vision 2030’s Quality of Life Program, the nation is transforming with rapid developments in the cultural sector among others.

This comes as the cultural sector is expected to contribute more than $47.9 billion to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product by 2030.

In the Quality of Life Program 2023 annual report, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that the Kingdom is striving to cultivate a deep sense of pride in the nation and actively contribute to global development and progress, across economic, environmental, cultural, and intellectual dimensions.

The report further revealed that in 2023, the Ministry of Culture targeted 108,010 employees in the Saudi cultural sector, but recorded 216,878 workers during the year, reflecting an achievement rate of 201 percent.

The Kingdom also aimed for nine Saudi participants in international cultural events, but actually witnessed 32.

When it comes to the number of cultural events days, Saudi Arabia was targeting 2,093 in 2023 but recorded 3,934 – reflecting an achievement rate of 188 percent.

As for the number of cultural facilities, the Kingdom was aiming for 41 in 2023 but achieved 45.

Cultural tourism’s contribution to economic development

Cultural tourism has been essential in diversifying the Kingdom's economy by boosting local hospitality, retail, and service industries, while also enhancing Saudi Arabia's global standing in cultural diplomacy.

“The revitalization of cultural landmarks such as AlUla, Diriyah, and UNESCO-listed sites has significantly enhanced Saudi Arabia’s international appeal, repositioning the Kingdom as a global destination not only for religious pilgrimage but also for its rich history, arts, and traditions,” Patrick Samaha, partner at Public Sector at Kearney Middle East & Africa told Arab News.

“With 30 million international tourists visiting in 2023, the influx has boosted local businesses in hospitality, retail, and services, generating new jobs, particularly in regions where tourism was previously underdeveloped,” Samaha added.

The Kearney partner went on to add that the Kingdom’s active participation in cultural diplomacy has resulted in stronger global relationships and a growing international appreciation for its rich heritage.

“This is reflected in the government’s significant investment in cultural landmarks, which will further open opportunities for hosting international events, forums, and conferences. Without a doubt, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a leader in cultural tourism,” he said.

There is no doubt that the Kingdom is working to diversify its economy by attracting visitors to explore its diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage.

Tamer El-Leisi, consulting partner at PwC Middle East told Arab News that the Kingdom has reported the highest growth among G20 countries in 2024, gaining international recognition, fostering cross-cultural understanding as well as enhancing the country's global image as an open and welcoming destination.

“It has also supported the preservation of historical sites and provided income opportunities for local artisans,” he added.




Tamer El-Leisi, consulting partner at PwC Middle East. (Supplied)

The PwC Middle East consulting partner said this work has a “profound impact” on economic growth, enhancing the labor market, and supporting local businesses.

“As cultural tourism grows, so does the demand for professionals in various sectors, such as hospitality, entertainment, and creative arts, which in turn boosts employment and economic growth,” El-Leisi added.

He highlighted that as a result of these efforts, the number of international and domestic tourists exceeded 100 million tourists in 2023, spending more than SR250 billion ($66.6 billion).

“These numbers have even increased during the first quarter of 2024 by 10 percent with an increase of around 17 percent in spending. By 2030, the tourism sector aims to account for over 10 percent of the country’s GDP,” he said.

As Saudi Arabia strives to become a global center for cultural tourism, building international partnerships with other nations, cultural institutions, and global organizations is crucial for success.

Balancing cultural heritage and business growth

The Saudi government has been crucial in safeguarding the Kingdom’s heritage while promoting an economically sustainable sector by supporting the heritage ecosystem, attracting private investment, and developing local talent.

According to Samaha, Saudi Arabia has recognized the importance of preserving its heritage at a time when it is embracing global cultural exchange, which is why heritage plays a central role in its Vision 2030.

“Rightfully so, key government initiatives have focused on boosting the socio-economic impact of heritage and the broader cultural sector, aiming to create a sustainable industry that appeals to younger generations. To achieve this, the Kingdom has developed a robust ecosystem, composed of both government and non-government entities, mandated to unlock the socio-economic potential of the sector and attract private investment,” the Kearney partner said.

He added: “For example, the creation of the Heritage Commission under the Ministry of Culture has enabled heritage sites to become catalysts for economic activity and offers various training programs to develop local talent in the heritage field.




Shahid Khan, partner and global head of Media, Entertainment, Sports, and Culture at management consulting firm Arthur D. Little.

Samaha continued to note that the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts was established to nurture talent in local crafts and generate business opportunities for artists through incubators and apprenticeship programs.

“These are just two examples of the many impactful initiatives being implemented by the Saudi government,” he said.

Undoubtedly, the Kingdom has demonstrated a firm commitment to cultural heritage by employing innovative and forward-thinking strategies to safeguard and preserve it for future generations. Those efforts foster a strong connection between cultural preservation and economic development.

“This is evident in many ways. For instance, the rehabilitation, restoration and promotion of historic sites and cultural attractions is encouraging exploration of cultural sites. Meanwhile, an emphasis on cultural tourism is strengthening national identity, fostering unity and shared purpose among the population,” El-Leisi said.

He stressed that local communities are actively engaging with tourists, not only enriching visitors’ experiences but also supporting community development. 

“Furthermore, investing in sustainable tourism practices is ensuring that the country's cultural heritage is preserved for future generations while minimizing the environmental impact of tourism activities. The Saudi government is focusing on responsible tourism, implementing green initiatives, and supporting eco-friendly businesses in the tourism sector,” the PwC partner added.

Preservation cultural heritage to attract investments

The preservation of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage plays a key role in attracting investment, fostering sustainable growth, and enhancing the Kingdom’s global standing, aligning with Vision 2030.

“By protecting heritage sites, especially those recognized by UNESCO, Saudi Arabia boosts tourism and diversifies its economy. Traditional crafts and cultural practices also stimulate the creative industries, drawing investment into cultural and luxury sectors,” Shahid Khan, partner and global head of Media, Entertainment, Sports, and Culture at management consulting firm Arthur D. Little, told Arab News.

“Globally, these efforts enhance Saudi Arabia's cultural diplomacy and soft power, strengthening its influence in international affairs. Through these initiatives, the Kingdom builds a sustainable, diversified future while positioning itself as a cultural leader on the world stage,” Khan added.

Ongoing initiatives that effectively blend the preservation of cultural heritage

Saudi Arabia is effectively merging the protection of its cultural heritage with economic growth through important initiatives outlined in Vision 2030.

“AlUla is being transformed into a global tourist destination, preserving ancient tombs and relics while generating jobs and revenue through luxury tourism. Similarly, Diriyah, the historic birthplace of the Saudi state, is undergoing restoration, combining heritage conservation with commercial and luxury developments,” Khan said.

“The Red Sea Project focuses on eco-tourism, safeguarding both natural and cultural heritage while creating employment and diversifying the economy,” he added.

The Arthur D. Little partner went on to note that in Jeddah, the restoration of its UNESCO-listed historic district is boosting tourism through traditional markets and cultural festivals.

“These projects illustrate how Saudi Arabia is harmonizing tradition with modern business opportunities to foster sustainable growth. The region can further draw inspiration from countries like Japan and Morocco, which have successfully promoted their cultural heritage while reaping significant economic benefits from tourism and cultural industries,” Khan said.


IMF mission concludes visit to Egypt for the 4th review of loan program

IMF mission concludes visit to Egypt for the 4th review of loan program
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IMF mission concludes visit to Egypt for the 4th review of loan program

IMF mission concludes visit to Egypt for the 4th review of loan program

CAIRO: The International Monetary Fund said on Wednesday that its mission had concluded a visit to Egypt and made substantial progress on policy discussions toward the completion of the fourth review of IMF loan program.

The review, which could unlock more than $1.2 billion in financing, is the fourth under Egypt’s latest 46-month IMF loan program that was approved in 2022 and expanded to $8 billion this year after an economic crisis marked by high inflation and severe foreign currency shortages.

The IMF also said that Egypt “has implemented key reforms to preserve macroeconomic stability,” including the unification of the exchange rate that eased imports, with its central bank reiterating its commitment to sustain a flexible exchange rate regime.

Earlier on Wednesday, Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said Cairo has asked the IMF to modify the targets for the program not only for this year, but for its full duration, he added without giving more details.

“Discussions will continue over the coming days to finalize agreement on the remaining policies and reforms that could support the completion of the fourth review,” the IMF added in its statement. 


Oil Updates – prices edge up on geopolitical tensions; higher-than-expected US inventories cap gains

Oil Updates – prices edge up on geopolitical tensions; higher-than-expected US inventories cap gains
Updated 21 November 2024
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Oil Updates – prices edge up on geopolitical tensions; higher-than-expected US inventories cap gains

Oil Updates – prices edge up on geopolitical tensions; higher-than-expected US inventories cap gains

SINGAPORE: Oil prices rose marginally on Thursday as geopolitical concerns over escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine countered the impact from a bigger-than-expected increase in US crude inventories.

Brent crude futures rose 16 cents, or 0.2 percent, to $72.97 as of 7:08 Saudi time. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 16 cents, or 0.23 percent, to $68.91.

Ukraine fired a volley of British Storm Shadow cruise missiles into Russia on Wednesday, the latest new Western weapon it has been permitted to use on Russian targets a day after it fired US ATACMS missiles.

Moscow has said the use of Western weapons to strike Russian territory far from the border would be a major escalation in the conflict. Kyiv says it needs the capability to defend itself by hitting Russian rear bases used to support Moscow’s invasion, which entered its 1,000th day this week.

“For oil, the risk is if Ukraine targets Russian energy infrastructure, while the other risk is uncertainty over how Russia responds to these attacks,” said ING analysts in a note.

JPMorgan analysts said oil consumption recovered in the past week thanks to better travel demand in the US and India, and as the latter also showed a significant rise in industrial demand.

Global oil demand is estimated to reach 103.6 million barrels per day (bpd) during the first 19 days of November, up 1.7 million bpd on-year, the analysts said in a note.

But countering the gains was a rise in US crude inventories by 545,000 barrels to 430.3 million barrels in the week ended Nov. 15, exceeding analysts’ expectations in a Reuters poll for a 138,000-barrel rise.

Gasoline inventories last week rose more than forecast, while distillate stockpiles posted a larger-than-expected draw, according to the Energy Information Administration data.

Adding to supply, Norway’s Equinor said it had restored full output capacity at the Johan Sverdrup oilfield in the North Sea following a power outage.

Meanwhile, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies led by Russia, the group known as OPEC+, may push back output increases again when it meets on Dec. 1 due to weak global oil demand, according to three OPEC+ sources familiar with the discussions.

OPEC+, which pumps around half the world’s oil, had initially planned to gradually reverse production cuts with minor increases spread over several months in 2024 and 2025.

However, the International Energy Agency said in its report last week even if OPEC+ cuts remain in place, oil supply will exceed demand in 2025 as rising production from the US and other outside producers outpaces sluggish demand. 


Saudi Arabia’s construction contracts jump 47% to $49.3bn in H1 2024  

Saudi Arabia’s construction contracts jump 47% to $49.3bn in H1 2024  
Updated 21 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s construction contracts jump 47% to $49.3bn in H1 2024  

Saudi Arabia’s construction contracts jump 47% to $49.3bn in H1 2024  

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s construction sector continues to thrive, with contract awards totaling SR185 billion ($49.3 billion) in the first half of the year, revealed a senior executive. 

Speaking during a webinar hosted by the US-Saudi Business Council, Albara’a Al-Wazir, the council’s director of economic research, said the figure represents a 47 percent increase compared to the previous year. 

He added that 2024 was well above where 2023 stood at the same point last year. “On a quarterly basis, in Q2, the value of contract awards reached about $17.6 billion — that’s about SR66 billion — and grew year over year by about 11 percent,” said Al-Wazir.  

He further highlighted that the year-to-date performance was even more impressive. 

Al-Wazir emphasized that the construction sector benefits from strong collaboration between the government and the private sector in helping meet Vision 2030 targets. 

“The private sector’s contribution was 4.9 percent, demonstrating exponential growth in construction contracts,” the executive added. 

The overall construction index, which tracks construction activity expected to move into the execution phase within six to 18 months, surged significantly to reach 271 points. 

“Sustained growth is evident, with the index showing year-over-year increases of 33 percent,” Al-Wazir said. 

Regarding sector-specific growth, he said: “Oil and gas, real estate, and water sectors are keeping the momentum from the first quarter into the second quarter, and the growing influential role of the private sector is expanding not just the economy in general but specifically the construction sector.”  

Oil and gas represented 41 percent of total contract awards, with the second quarter seeing a 505 percent year-over-year growth, largely due to Saudi Aramco’s projects.  

“The oil and gas sector reached unprecedented levels, with $7.3 billion in Q2 alone,” Al-Wazir said. 

The real estate sector also showed strong growth, with an 8 percent year-over-year increase in contract values. Residential real estate remains a key focus, especially as the Kingdom moves closer to its 2030 goal of 70 percent homeownership. 

Water infrastructure saw a 26 percent year-over-year growth, with projects such as sewage plants in the Eastern Province contributing to the overall momentum. 

“There is no sign of a slowdown in these sectors,” he said, adding that the pace of contract awards is expected to remain strong. 

Regional overview 

Regional breakdowns showed that the Eastern Province remains the dominant hub for construction, accounting for 59 percent of total contract awards, driven primarily by oil and gas projects based there. 

Riyadh has also experienced growth, especially in the real estate sector, which accounted for 56 percent of contracts in the capital. Key projects include educational and healthcare infrastructure, such as the SR2.3 billion King Salman University project and the Diriyah Gate. 

Saudi Arabia’s investment surge in infrastructure is part of a broader strategy to build a sustainable and diversified economy. 

“The Kingdom is positioning itself as a diversified economic powerhouse with a thriving private sector that can sustain its economy and drive innovation,” Al-Wazir added. 

Urban transformation  

Saudi Arabia’s urban landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from a centralized model dominated by Riyadh and Jeddah to a polycentric approach, according to Elias Abou Samra, CEO of RAFAL Real Estate Development Co. 

“Economic activity is no longer clustered solely around traditional hubs. We’re seeing new nodes emerging in the south, such as the Red Sea as a tourist destination, NEOM in the northwest, and economic centers like Dammam and even the north,” Abou Samra said. 

These new urban nodes are being connected through advanced infrastructure, including high-speed railways and newly opened airports. 

This shift, Abou Samra noted, is creating new opportunities for investment and employment while boosting the competitiveness of industries like mining and electric vehicle production. 

“King Abdullah Economic City, for example, is leading in EV car production, and this is just one of many examples,” he added. 

Abou Samra also highlighted the Kingdom’s progress in human capital development. “Saudi Arabia created 1 million jobs in 2023, and we’re on track to break this record in 2024,” he noted, stressing that much of this growth is being driven by the private and quasi-governmental sectors. 

He further pointed out that Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly attractive destination for expatriates, particularly with initiatives like the premium residency program. 

“This program allows expats to invest in real estate and economic sectors through equity stakes, opening opportunities that were previously inaccessible,” he explained. 

While acknowledging the progress, Abou Samra pointed out areas where further improvements are needed, particularly in economic efficiency. 

“I’m not here just to paint a rosy picture, and we need to keep a close eye on economic growth and the efficiency of the economy. The short-run multiplier stands at 0.2 as we speak, and medium to long term, it peaks at 0.6. If we compare this to the G20 countries, we are lagging behind,” he said. 

Abou Samra added, “But the good news is that the government is very keen on improving the multiplier effect, and the efficiency of the public sector is increasing by the quarter, not to say, by the day. This is driven by new involvement by the youth in the public sector.”  

This comes as Saudi Arabia continues to prioritize both social and physical infrastructure development in alignment with Vision 2030. 

“These are really focal points that the Kingdom is addressing currently,” Al-Wazir said. 

Meanwhile, physical infrastructure projects serve as the backbone for developments across the country, requiring significant investment and resources.  

One example is Riyadh’s redevelopment under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, which is heavily dependent on physical infrastructure support. 

Gross fixed capital formation, a measure of investment in infrastructure and assets, rose by 3.2 percent overall, with private sector contributions growing 5.3 percent. 

“We’re starting to see an inflection point where the private sector is growing its role, while government contributions have declined by 8 percent year-over-year,” Al-Wazir said. 

The Kingdom’s emphasis on fostering public-private partnerships and attracting foreign direct investment is expected to reshape its business landscape. 

“Bolstered public-private partnerships and FDI are likely to foster a more dynamic private sector, driving innovation in technology, urban planning, and renewable energy,” Al-Wazir added. 

The executive reaffirmed the trajectory of Saudi Arabia’s construction sector, noting that the Kingdom is on track to meet many of its Vision 2030 targets, driven by record-breaking investments and an expanding private sector role. 


Saudi local content projects valued at $213bn by Q3 2024, says Alkhorayef

Saudi local content projects valued at $213bn by Q3 2024, says Alkhorayef
Updated 20 November 2024
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Saudi local content projects valued at $213bn by Q3 2024, says Alkhorayef

Saudi local content projects valued at $213bn by Q3 2024, says Alkhorayef

JEDDAH: The value of projects under Saudi Arabia’s local content initiatives has reached approximately SR800 billion ($213 billion) by the third quarter of 2024, according to the Kingdom’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef.

Speaking at the ongoing second edition of the Local Content Forum in Riyadh, themed “Partnerships for Sustainable Growth,” Alkhorayef revealed that Saudi Arabia’s share of local content in government procurement has increased from 33 percent in 2020 to 47 percent by the third quarter of 2024.

The minister, who also serves as chairman of the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority, added that the authority has focused on encouraging target sectors to adopt and prioritize local content, improving governance in government procurement processes, and enhancing efficiency in this area.

Established in 2018, the LCGPA is responsible for developing and overseeing policies and regulations, fostering local opportunities, promoting transparency, and utilizing national purchasing power. In collaboration with both public and private sectors, its mission is to strengthen local content in the national economy and improve government procurement processes.

The second edition of the forum builds on the success of the first, offering new opportunities for knowledge exchange, experience sharing, and raising awareness about the enablers, mechanisms, and policies of local content.

During his speech, Alkhorayef emphasized the critical role of the LCGPA in advancing local content, which he described as a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030.

He highlighted local content as both a brilliant concept and a key innovation introduced by Vision 2030. Alkhorayef noted that local content has received consistent attention since its inception, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscoring its national importance in his meetings.

The initiative has now become integral to national strategies and government actions, receiving recognition at local, regional, and international levels.

The minister further stated that the authority’s success is a result of a shared belief in the importance of local content. To maximize its impact, the authority has established and activated over 380 local content teams across various entities to ensure proper implementation and compliance with policies.

Alkhorayef also mentioned that the authority has supported national factories by adding 1,100 new products to the mandatory list, directing nearly SR87 billion in national spending toward local products from early 2022 through Q3 2024.

Additionally, the number of factories producing items on the mandatory list has increased by 1,437, reaching a total of approximately 6,100, an 8 percent growth rate—surpassing the 5 percent growth rate of all factories in the Kingdom. This growth has generated over 42,000 new job opportunities in the past three years, supporting the Kingdom’s efforts to empower national talent and create sustainable employment.

Alkhorayef also highlighted the authority’s success in signing 50 agreements to localize industries and transfer knowledge in key sectors such as transportation, logistics, medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, and water. These agreements are expected to contribute over SR47 billion to the country’s gross domestic product.

The minister emphasized that the benefits of local content extend beyond economic outcomes, contributing to stronger local capabilities, enhanced national security against global challenges, improved supply chain resilience, and increased foreign investment and technology transfer to the Saudi market.

He reiterated that achieving the shared national goal of advancing local content requires the collective effort of all sectors, affirming that the LCGPA is working at an accelerated pace with national entities to realize this goal and fulfill the Kingdom’s aspirations.

In his address during the forum, Faisal Al-Ibrahim, minister of planning and economy, emphasized the importance of knowledge transfer for local content.

He remarked: “Today we may produce a simple product, but tomorrow there will be multiple simple products, and over time, more complex products will be built on them. This accumulated knowledge sustains long-term economic diversification.”

Al-Ibrahim noted that Saudi Vision 2030’s core objective is to diversify economic growth by fostering an environment conducive to developing competitive products and services for global markets. He emphasized that local content is essential for the economy’s resilience and its ability to address future challenges.

In a panel discussion titled “Future Directions of Local Content in the Context of Saudi Vision 2030,” Al-Ibrahim explained that increasing exports will help diversify sources of growth, aiming for expansion beyond oil and public finances. This strategy will drive private sector growth, support small and medium-sized businesses, and create sustainable jobs.

Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih also participated in the forum, asserting that the Saudi economy “should be, and is, part of an integrated global economy.”

He noted that globalization is here to stay, despite evolving supply chain dynamics and country-to-country connections. Al-Falih stressed that Saudi Arabia is targeting foreign investment to reach 5.7 percent of the total economy, aiming for a market worth over SR6 trillion by 2030, equating to nearly SR388 billion in investment.

Highlighting the local economy’s importance, Al-Falih pointed out that Saudi Aramco has become a global hub for knowledge and technology transfer. He also noted SABIC’s success in building a vast petrochemical industry in Saudi Arabia through partnerships with foreign investors and mentioned Ma’aden’s expanding global presence.

Ahmed Al-Zahrani, assistant minister of energy for development and excellence, discussed the role of the country’s energy sector localization committee, chaired by Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and deputized by Alkhorayef.

Al-Zahrani emphasized the committee’s mission to promote localization and ensure stable supply chains within the energy sector. He highlighted a research and development program in collaboration with over 14 government and private entities, including Aramco, ACWA Power, SABIC, and several universities.

The goal, he said, is to ensure the sustainability of localization from research and development through innovation to the final product.


Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,867 

Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,867 
Updated 20 November 2024
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Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,867 

Closing Bell: Saudi main index closes in red at 11,867 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Tadawul All Share Index declined on Wednesday, shedding 7.99 points, or 0.07 percent, to close at 11,867.92.

The total trading turnover of the benchmark index was SR4.78 billion ($1.27 billion) with 88 of the listed stocks advancing, while 141 declined.  

Saudi Arabia’s parallel market Nomu, however, gained by 0.98 percent to 29,859.11.  

The MSCI Tadawul Index marginally slipped 0.49 points to close at 1,491.34. 

The best-performing stock of the day was Al-Baha Investment and Development Co., with its share price increasing by 7.14 percent to SR0.30.  

Fawaz Abdulaziz Alhokair Co.’s share price rose by 8.29 percent to SR14.10, while Development Works Food Co.’s stock surged by 6.85 percent to SR131. 

Conversely, Saudi Chemical Co. recorded the biggest drop, falling 2.90 percent to SR9.71. 

On the parallel market, the top performer was Dar Almarkabah for Renting Cars Co., with its share price surging 15.45 percent to SR50.80. 

Saudi Investment Bank announced the launch of its US-denominated additional tier 1 capital sustainable sukuk under its sukuk program. 

In a statement to Tadawul, the bank revealed the appointment of Alistithmar for Financial Securities and Brokerage Co., Citigroup Global Markets Limited, HSBC Bank, and JP Morgan Securities as joint lead managers.  

It also appointed Goldman Sachs International, MUFG Securities EMEA plc, Arqaam Capital Limited, and Standard Chartered Bank as bookrunners. 

The offering, available to eligible investors in Saudi Arabia and internationally, commenced on Nov. 20 and is scheduled to close on Nov. 21. 

With a minimum subscription of $200,000, the sukuk will be perpetual and callable after five years. 

Saudi Investment Bank’s share price rose 2.65 percent to SR13.58. 

Knowledge Tower Trading Co. has announced a board resolution to transfer from the parallel market to the main market, subject to market approval and fulfillment of all regulatory requirements.  

Following the announcement, the company’s share price saw a significant increase of 7.20 percent, closing at SR10.90