Saudi Arabia is witnessing a remarkable transformation under the Vision 2030 program, creating unparalleled opportunities for its youth. At the Misk Global Forum 2024 in Riyadh, Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al-Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism, called on Saudi youth to embrace technology and innovation as they shape the Kingdom’s future.
In her address, Princess Haifa emphasized the importance of mastering emerging technologies, staying well-informed, and relying on credible sources. She highlighted that success requires patience and perseverance, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to empowering its young generation.
“Nothing is impossible in Saudi Arabia. We are fortunate that Saudi Arabia has proven that progress and development are achievable,” said Princess Haifa.
Youth at the Core of Vision 2030
The Vision 2030 initiative, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is an ambitious plan to prepare Saudi Arabia for the future. A key aspect of this vision is empowering youth by creating jobs, providing access to cutting-edge technology, and fostering innovation.
Recent data showcases the program’s impact:
- The unemployment rate among Saudi nationals dropped to 7.1% by the end of Q2 2024—a 0.5 percentage point decrease from the previous quarter and a 1.4-point drop compared to last year.
- Unemployment among Saudi women saw a significant improvement, with a 1.4-point decline, reaching 12.8% by Q2.
These achievements reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring youth participation in building a sustainable and thriving future.
Misk Foundation: Fostering Creativity and Innovation
The Misk Foundation, established in 2011 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, plays a pivotal role in nurturing the young generation. Through initiatives like Misk City, Misk Art Institute, Manga Productions, and Misk Schools, the foundation provides opportunities for education, innovation, and artistic expression.
At the Misk Global Forum, themed “By Youth for Youth,” leaders and young changemakers from around the globe came together to foster dialogue and collaboration. The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s dedication to creating an environment where the youth can excel in various fields, from technology to culture.
Driving Progress in Tourism and Beyond
The tourism industry is another sector benefiting from Vision 2030. In September, Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb announced substantial investments aimed at job creation, especially for women and young people. This aligns with the growing trend in the Middle East, where a young, dynamic population is eager to embrace change and innovation.
A report by PwC noted that Saudi Arabia’s youth are increasingly aware of sustainable development goals. Initiatives like those from the Misk Foundation are vital in equipping them with the skills and resources needed to drive change across multiple sectors.
A Bright Future for Saudi Youth
Princess Haifa’s inspiring message at the Misk Global Forum underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to empowering its youth. The transformative initiatives under Vision 2030 and the Misk Foundation are setting a foundation for young Saudis to lead the Kingdom into a future defined by progress, sustainability, and innovation.
As the Kingdom continues its unprecedented journey of transformation, the youth remain at the heart of its success, proving that nothing is impossible in Saudi Arabia.
