Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030: New EV Infrastructure, Cultural Initiatives, and Diplomatic Stances Drive National Progress
Saudi Arabia to boost EV infrastructure and cultural pride under Vision 2030.
Electromin's Tony Mazzone announced plans to install 16 EV charging stations at Roshn Waterfront on Jeddah Corniche by the end of 2024, and to launch a fully electric bus system in Makkah in early 2024. Furthermore, the company is forging partnerships with Roshn Waterfront and Solutions Valley to enhance EV infrastructure, while emphasizing the need for government incentives.
Relatedly, Hashim Al-Fatayerji of Sixt anticipates that Saudi Arabia's car rental and B2B sectors will drive significant EV adoption by 2026, aiming to convert 30% of Riyadh’s vehicles to electric by 2030 in pursuit of carbon neutrality by 2060. Industry leaders call for more EV dealerships, local production, and infrastructure development, to support this transition.
In the spirit of economic collaboration, an Italian business federation representing 7,000 companies is set to increase investments in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030. Announced at the Saudi-Italian Business Forum in Riyadh, this initiative aims to enhance investments, scientific collaboration, and cultural exchange, highlighted by Lombardy's president Attilio Fontana.
On the international front, Arab and Islamic leaders, chaired by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, convened in Amman to coordinate efforts during the UN General Assembly in New York. Discussions focused on recognizing a Palestinian state, addressing the Gaza crisis, and implementing a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, involving officials from several regional countries and organizations.
Back on the cultural front, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Abdullah, declared 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts to celebrate and promote traditional arts. This initiative, part of Vision 2030, seeks to enhance national pride, boost the economy, and showcase the talents of Saudi artisans globally, highlighting crafts such as pottery and beadwork.
Finally, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reiterated Saudi Arabia's stance on not establishing diplomatic relations with Israel without the creation of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Speaking at the Shoura Council, he emphasized the kingdom's commitment to the Palestinian cause, alongside highlighting achievements in economic diversification and tourism growth under Vision 2030.