Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is a sweeping masterplan to move beyond hydrocarbons and embrace a vibrant, future-forward economy. The gulf juggernaut has lately come up with a healthier alternative to traditional soda. Milaf Cola, a date-based beverage, is enriched with fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium. Back in 2022, this diversification strategy took a flavorful turn with the launch of the Saudi Coffee Company, backed by a 1.2 billion riyal investment from the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Marred by rising temperatures, Saudi Arabia is brewing a solution for coffee enthusiasts by reviving the traditional roasted date seed beverage. This initiative aims to significantly increase domestic coffee production from 300 to 2,500 tonnes annually. The “Year of Saudi Coffee” initiative and the Milaf Cola launch are part of the Kingdom’s broader focus on sustainable development, which also includes exploring urban farming technologies like vertical farming and soilless culture led by Estidamah to enhance food security and optimise crop production.
Further, the nation is actively exploring novel arenas to tendril its way into and the gaming industry is leveling up as a core player. Kingdom’s Savvy Games Group is armed with a $37.7 billion investment poised for global gaming dominance. It integrates gaming into mega-projects like NEOM and Qiddiya, partnering with companies like Globant to build dynamic entertainment hubs. In a nod to its cultural heritage,
Saudi Arabia’s Al Faw Archaeological Area has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, its eighth such inscription, reflecting a commitment to preserving heritage as part of Vision 2030. Additionally, Saudi Arabia is set to join the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, with North Riyadh and Salma Geoparks under consideration for inclusion in March 2025. On a larger canvas all these quirky initiatives seamlessly align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
