Saudi cities have made remarkable strides on the international stage, clearly underscoring the rapid transformation the Kingdom is currently driving through Vision 2030 initiatives. Specifically, the Global Cities Report from management consultant Kearney highlighted remarkable progress across Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam. This success results from sustained government investment in infrastructure, innovation, and enhanced livability.
Furthermore, the report utilizes the Global Cities Index (GCI) and the Global Cities Outlook to rank cities globally. The GCI measures 158 cities using five key dimensions: business activity, human capital, information exchange, cultural experience, and political engagement. Therefore, the index ultimately evaluates a city’s ability to attract, retain, and effectively generate worldwide flows of people, capital, and valuable ideas.
Riyadh Leads the Charge
Notably, Riyadh advanced eight places to 56th in the rankings, posting strong gains in personal well-being measurements. Moreover, the capital continues to lead all cities in Foreign Direct Investment inflows, reinforcing its critical role as the premier national magnet for global investment capital.
Meanwhile, Jeddah achieved a crucial 1-rank increase, securing the 83rd position worldwide, benefiting from its burgeoning commercial and cultural activity and its expanding role as a key regional entrepreneurship hub.
Finally, Saudi Arabia proudly witnessed other major cities like Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam significantly improve their global rankings. This excellent performance clearly reflects the success of national efforts to diversify development beyond only the capital, delivering balanced economic growth across the entire Kingdom.
