According to management consultant Kearney’s Global Cities Report, that looks at the impact of socio-economic and political developments on cities and their futures, the Saudi capital achieved the highest points tally jump in the category.

Since the launch of Saudi Arabia’s National Culture Strategy in 2019, the Kingdom has witnessed an unprecedented expansion in its cultural offerings.

Last year, the Ministry of Culture recorded 304 museums, 85 public, ministry-affiliated libraries, 262 theaters, 75 galleries and exhibition halls, 54 cinemas, and 20 literary coffee shops in the country.

Rudolph Lohmeyer, a Kearney partner with its National Transformations Institute, said: “Saudi Arabia’s progressive policy decisions have not only been steering the country toward sustainable growth but are also safeguarding the long-term wellbeing of its citizens and residents.

“The significant jump in the rankings in Riyadh in cultural experience can be attributed to the dedicated effort toward bringing a vibrant society pillar under Vision 2030 to life.”

He noted that the key to a thriving economy was when the people living in it were rooted in, aware, and proud of their cultural heritage, making them more likely to be committed to contributing to economic success.

Riyadh led the region in the capital markets section and remained top for foreign-born population. It also moved four points up the rankings for business activity and human capital despite higher-than-expected global inflation, the ongoing economic and political fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the escalating effects of climate change.

Jeddah also strengthened its position in the business activity and human capital listings, Madinah moved up a notch, and Makkah and Abha were recognized for their information exchange. Meanwhile, Dammam gained 11 points in the global index on the back of its human capital, information exchange, improved cultural experience, and increased political engagement.

“It will be important to sustain the momentum created. Longstanding and even existential imperatives – such as those related to climate change – will need to remain in focus.

“This is going to be a period where the resilience of the economy is going to be tested. Reinvestment within the local socio-economic system, and a focus on growth, anchored to prudent decision-making, is what will set countries apart,” Lohmeyer added.