DAVOS: Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan on Thursday said that the Kingdom’s economic planners were being driven by their “North Star” and not egos as they look to maintain growth in the economy.

Speaking on a panel about the Saudi economy at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, Al-Jadaan highlighted Saudi Arabia’s shift from short-term budgets to longer-term fiscal planning, ensuring clear priorities and disciplined spending.

He said that there was flexibility and a readiness within the government to adapt plans based on global circumstances. “I’ve said this repeatedly, we don’t have egos. We are willing to change depending on circumstances and we will continue to do that. We will prioritize what matters,” he said.

“Our key North Star is what is driving us, and the tools can change, the means can change. It’s really that North Star that we are looking forward to,” he said.

He emphasized the progress and resilience of Saudi Arabia’s economy under Vision 2030, noting that the plan had mobilized the entire nation — government, businesses, right down to citizens — toward clear, long-term goals.

He attributed this success to visionary leadership, tough decision-making and consistent execution, adding that this approach could be a universal “recipe” for unlocking global potential.

On the Saudi-US relationship, Al-Jadaan highlighted its strategic importance over the past eight decades, emphasizing that Saudi Arabia had maintained strong economic, diplomatic and security ties with Washington, regardless of the administration in power, whether Republican or Democrat.

He described the partnership as a “win-win situation” that remained vital and was likely to endure into the foreseeable future.

Al-Jadaan was joined on the panel by Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Al-Ibrahim, who attributed the Kingdom’s strong economic performance to a first wave of transformation driven by clear, courageous decisions and significant investments, not only financially but also in terms of effort and planning.

Looking ahead, Al-Ibrahim stressed that the next phase of Vision 2030 would focus on addressing more complex challenges, particularly in enabling the private sector.

He emphasized the goal of increasing the private sector’s contribution to 65 percent of GDP by fostering collaboration, co-developing opportunities and creating an environment where private enterprises could take the lead in driving economic growth.

Key priorities include enhancing institutional capabilities, ensuring policy clarity and predictability, and addressing barriers to innovation-driven entrepreneurship, he said.

Al-Ibrahim also underlined the government’s commitment to working closely with the private sector, noting that ministers and their teams often worked long hours to respond to and engage with private enterprises. This collaborative approach, he said, was deeply embedded in the country’s Vision 2030 blueprint for economic transformation.

IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva, who was also on the panel, praised Saudi Arabia’s transformation efforts, highlighting the country’s ability to create an appealing environment for business and tourism.

She commended its forward-thinking approach in engaging the private sector to diversify experiences and attract repeat visitors. Referring to her visit to AlUla, she said: “I didn’t know what to expect, but I came out thinking it was great we decided to open our regional office in Riyadh.”

Georgieva also noted Saudi Arabia’s strategic planning to host global events and foster economic growth. She described the country as a “good example of transformation” that others could look to for inspiration in creating dynamic, sustainable growth through proactive planning and investment.
 

JEDDAH: Saudi-based conglomerate Kingdom Holding Co. has confirmed the termination of its SR6.8 billion ($1.8 billion) fund agreement with Sumou Holding Co. and Jeddah Economic Co., following a mutual decision by all parties.

In a filing with the Tadawul stock exchange, KHC said the move, effective Jan. 23, imposes no obligations on any party, adding that this decision was reached as the primary purpose of the fund is no longer applicable.

Progress continues on the fund’s main asset, Jeddah Tower, with the Saudi Binladin Group reinstated and work resuming at an accelerated pace. Technical and consulting teams are now in place and have commenced on-site operations.

The release added that the Alinma Jeddah Economic City Fund, fully owned by JEC – an associate firm – remains operational, saying that KHC continues to support the project’s development.

In July, the three firms signed an agreement to establish a new fund to acquire the Alinma Jeddah Economic Fund, whose investors would include the three companies, with KHC owning 40 percent of the new fund.

In a Tadawul announcement, KHC said last year that the financial impact of the agreement would be disclosed once JEC completed updating its accounting records.

The latest announcement said the concrete was poured for the 64th floor of the tower in the presence of the partners, headed by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, KHC’s chairman of the board of directors.

It added that the partners were giving their utmost attention and oversight to this global symbol, which aligns with Saudi Vision 2030.

Jeddah Economic City aims to showcase its pioneering ambitions through the Jeddah Tower, envisioned as a new wonder of the world and a symbol of Jeddah’s renaissance. The tower also reflects the city’s rich commercial heritage spanning thousands of years, according to the company’s website.

Set to stand over 1 km. tall, the tower will be the centerpiece of the Jeddah Tower Waterfront District.