Saudi Arabia’s major cities are making big strides on the world stage, according to a fresh report from management consultant Kearney. Released in October 2025, the Global Cities Report highlights strong gains for places like Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam, driven by smart investments in roads, tech hubs, and better living conditions under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan.
This progress shows how Saudi leaders are turning ambitious goals into real changes that boost global appeal. The report looks at factors like business growth, skilled workers, cultural vibes, and more to rank cities.
Key Highlights from the 2025 Report
Riyadh jumped eight spots to claim the 56th position in the Global Cities Index. This climb comes from solid gains in personal well-being and a leading role in pulling in foreign direct investment.
Jeddah moved up one rank to 83rd place. The city benefits from its busy ports and growing spots for startups and events.
Other cities shone too. Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam all saw notable ranking boosts, spreading development across the Kingdom. These shifts underline efforts to build beyond just the capital.
The report also notes how Gulf neighbors like Dubai and Manama are rising fast, creating a regional wave of urban growth.
Driving Forces Behind the Rise
Vision 2030 plays a central role in this success. Launched in 2016, the plan aims to diversify the economy away from oil and create vibrant cities. Billions have gone into projects like high-speed trains, smart tech systems, and green spaces.
Infrastructure upgrades stand out as a major win. New airports, metro lines, and highways make daily life smoother and attract businesses. For example, Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport expansion handles more flights, linking the city to global markets.
Innovation hubs are popping up too. Places like the Riyadh Tech Valley draw startups and tech giants, fostering jobs and ideas. This ties into broader trends where cities worldwide compete for talent in AI and digital fields.
Livability improvements add to the appeal. Parks, cultural centers, and health facilities make these cities more enjoyable for residents and visitors. Recent data shows Riyadh’s air quality has improved by 20 percent in the last five years, thanks to green initiatives.
Comparing Saudi Cities’ Progress
To show the changes clearly, here is a table of key Saudi cities and their 2025 Global Cities Index rankings compared to the previous year:
| City | 2025 Rank | Previous Rank | Key Improvement Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | 56 | 64 | FDI inflows, personal well-being |
| Jeddah | 83 | 84 | Commercial activity, entrepreneurship |
| Makkah | Improved | Not specified | Infrastructure, cultural experience |
| Madinah | Improved | Not specified | Innovation, livability |
| Dammam | Improved | Not specified | Business activity, human capital |
This table captures the upward trend. Riyadh leads the pack with the biggest jump, while others build on steady gains.
Experts point out that these rankings reflect real economic shifts. Saudi Arabia’s GDP grew by 8.7 percent in 2022, and non-oil sectors now make up over half of the economy, per recent stats.
Broader Impact on the Region
The report places Saudi progress in a wider Gulf context. Dubai topped the Middle East and North Africa list, with Riyadh close behind. This regional surge comes from shared strategies like investing in digital readiness and human skills.
For instance, events like the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh draw global leaders, boosting the city’s political engagement score. Similar pushes in Jeddah for tourism align with post-pandemic travel booms.
Challenges remain, such as managing rapid growth without straining resources. Yet, the report praises Saudi efforts for balancing speed with sustainability.
What This Means for Residents and Investors
For everyday people, these changes mean better jobs and quality of life. A young engineer in Dammam might find new tech roles, while families in Madinah enjoy upgraded parks.
Investors see opportunity. Foreign firms are flocking to Riyadh for its stable environment and incentives. Recent deals include tech partnerships with companies from the US and Europe.
Looking ahead, the Global Cities Outlook part of the report predicts even brighter futures if trends continue. Saudi cities could crack the top 50 by 2030.
Global Trends and Future Outlook
Cities worldwide face similar pressures, from climate change to tech shifts. Saudi Arabia’s model offers lessons, like blending tradition with modernity. Makkah’s upgrades for pilgrims show how cultural sites can modernize without losing heritage.
Recent events tie in too. The Kingdom hosted major summits in 2025, showcasing its cities to the world. This exposure likely helped rankings.
In summary, these improvements signal a Kingdom on the move, ready to compete globally.
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