Global Scans · Saudi Arabia · Weekly Summary

DRIVER: Saudi Arabia could see some tumultuous economic policy changes provoked by the lower oil price era and the emerging challenge from renewable energies. It also faces threats from Middle East turmoil.

• [New] Riyadh Air was founded in 2023 by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and is slated to begin commercial flights in the first half of 2026. SlashGear
• [New] The Middle East is experiencing a large flow of capital into data center development, driven by national strategies like Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the creation of regional cloud hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Baker McKenzie
• [New] Real assets represent the largest component of Saudi Arabia's overall wealth and are expected to reach $2.94 trillion by 2029, marking a compound annual growth rate of 1.3%. ArabNews
• [New] Once fully operational, air taxis in Saudi Arabia will drastically reduce the time it takes to travel between key urban areas. Travel And Tour World
• [New] With a robust regulatory framework and demonstrated operational success, Saudi Arabia could set a global example of how to integrate next-generation air mobility into urban environments. Travel And Tour World
• [New] In the years to come, Saudi Arabia's urban landscape could be drastically reshaped by the introduction of air taxis, setting a new standard for modern urban mobility. Travel And Tour World
• [New] The successful implementation of air taxis will be a critical step in shaping the future of urban mobility in Saudi Arabia, bringing both economic and environmental benefits while enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. Travel And Tour World
• [New] As technology continues to evolve and the regulatory environment matures, we can expect to see even more innovative solutions emerge in the coming years. / Saudi Arabia Travel And Tour World
• [New] By introducing air taxis, Saudi Arabia will be positioning itself at the forefront of the global urban mobility revolution. Travel And Tour World
• [New] With the advent of air taxis, Saudi Arabia will be able to showcase itself as a leader in urban air mobility, setting an example for other countries looking to implement similar technologies. Travel And Tour World
• [New] The phased deployment of air taxi services in Saudi Arabia will begin with a series of pilot test flights. Travel And Tour World
• [New] One of the first steps will be the development of a comprehensive regulatory framework for the safe operation of VTOL aircraft in Saudi Arabia. Travel And Tour World
• [New] Private capital financing is gaining traction in Saudi Arabia as the large funding needs of Vision 2030 and the expanding SME sector create new opportunities beyond traditional bank lending. MUFG Research
• [New] Saudi Arabia has already issued about USD20bn in foreign currency bonds this year, with further borrowing expected in 2026, though officials stress caution to avoid oversupplying markets. MUFG Research
• [New] By laying down plans to certify air taxis under familiar FAA standards, Joby smoothens the regulatory path, much like oil easing creaky gears. / Saudi Arabia Timothy Sykes
• [New] Mandarin Oriental Jeddah - set to open in 2030 - will introduce a new benchmark of luxury hospitality in Saudi Arabia, anchoring the heart of the Jeddah Central waterfront with a low-rise, sustainably designed urban sanctuary overlooking the Red Sea. Luxury Travel Expert
• An HSBC survey reveals that 9 out of 10 UAE-based international firms plan to invest in Saudi Arabia over the next five years, with 78% planning to strengthen trade and investment ties with Saudi in the next six months. Nasser Saidi & Associates
• Saudi Arabia and Russia might cut output by another 1-1.5 million barrels daily to balance lost Chinese demand. Domestic Drilling and Operating

Last updated: 22 December 2025