The Quality of Life Program Center has published its newest report, Cities of Possibility: The Evolution of Quality of Life in Saudi Arabia, offering an in-depth view of the Kingdom’s remarkable progress in shaping vibrant, people-focused cities in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Based on extensive surveys of citizens, residents, and visitors, the report captures the lived experience of urban transformation across the Kingdom.
Covering five major cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, Al-Khobar, Madinah, and Abha—the report introduces an innovative evaluation framework built around four integrated pillars: Prosperity and Opportunity; Personal and Social Growth; Lifestyle and Recreation; and Sustainable and Safe Foundations. Together, these pillars provide a holistic measure of urban success and well-being.
The findings present a robust, data-driven picture of national transformation, highlighting achievements that have exceeded several original Vision 2030 targets. Unemployment has fallen sharply, nearly halving from 12.3% in 2016 to 6.8% in the first quarter of 2025. At the same time, women’s participation in the workforce reached a historic high of 36.4% in Q1 2025, surpassing the Vision 2030 goal of 30%.
Quality of Life
Saudi Arabia’s growing economic strength is matched by its rising global profile in investment and infrastructure. A 67% year-on-year increase in investment licenses helped the Kingdom rank 13th worldwide in the 2025 Kearney FDI Confidence Index.
Additionally, human development indicators have also advanced significantly, with life expectancy increasing from 74 to 79 years, while rapid digital progress placed Saudi Arabia second among G20 countries in the ITU’s 2024 ICT Regulatory Tracker Index.
Backed by a trillion-dollar national investment in tourism and entertainment, the Kingdom has significantly broadened access to culture, sports, and leisure.
Moreover, hosting global events such as the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the Esports World Cup, and the Dakar Rally has reinforced Saudi Arabia’s status as an international destination, setting the stage for future milestones including Expo 2030 Riyadh and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Commenting on the report, Quality of Life Program Center CEO Khalid AlBaker underscored that quality of life is a core national priority and a key driver of social cohesion, global talent attraction, and long-term prosperity.
Finally, he noted that the progress achieved reflects the leadership’s steadfast commitment to placing people at the heart of development.
The full report can be accessed at:
https://qoldrive.filevalt.com/ui/core/index.html?mode=single&path=/SHARED/%21fMF3tyhz4MuEy2BWru1Ce0juP/QpVowbaSqod8SA1V#/.
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