Saudi debt market liquidity soars to $666m in 2023
Updated 08 September 2024
Nadin Hassan
RIYADH: The liquidity of Saudi Arabia’s debt market surged to SR2.5 billion ($665.9 million) in 2023, a significant increase from SR800 million in 2019, according to Mohammed El-Kuwaiz, chairman of the Capital Market Authority.
El-Kuwaiz made these remarks during a panel session at the Derivative Market and Derivatives Forum 2024 in Riyadh.
He said this growth reflects the sector’s expansion and its progress toward aligning with the scale of comparable global economies.
“Regarding liquidity, in 2019, the annual liquidity and trading volume in the debt market was approximately SR800 million. By 2023, this figure has grown to around SR2.5 billion, more than tripling despite a decrease from previous years due to rising interest rates,” El-Kuwaiz said.
He continued: “Currently, the debt market’s size relative to the Kingdom’s economy is less than 20 percent, specifically around 18-19 percent. In comparison, similar countries have debt markets that represent 30 percent or more of their economies.”
El-Kuwaiz said that, given the expected growth of the Saudi economy, the debt market has already experienced substantial expansion over the past four years.
To align with international markets and address the growing financial demands of the economy, the Saudi debt market is expected to at least double, if not more, over the next five years. This expansion is crucial for maintaining the market's competitiveness and supporting the country’s economic development.
El-Kuwaiz mentioned: “We anticipate releasing the final version of the new regulations next month. This will be the most significant update concerning issuance and offerings in the debt market. While we have made considerable progress, there is still much work ahead.”
He added that the Saudi debt market is more accessible to foreign investors compared to the stock market, which often requires specialized knowledge.
“Previously, Saudi issuers had to conduct debt issuances outside the Kingdom, often in foreign currencies. More than 80 percent of debt issuances by Saudi issuers were conducted abroad before 2019,” he explained.
However, following recent improvements in the system, the proportion of debt issuances occurring within Saudi Arabia has nearly doubled from about 20 percent to almost 40 percent. This shift indicates the increasing attractiveness and competitiveness of the local debt market. Additionally, for the first time in the past two years, bank ownership in the market has fallen below 50 percent, highlighting the entry of new investor categories.
El-Kuwaiz also pointed out that the global debt market is significantly larger than the global equity market. At the end of 2023, the total value of global stock markets was approximately $115 trillion, while the value of global debt markets ranged between $140 and $150 trillion. This disparity reflects the fundamental nature of debt markets.
El-Kuwaiz highlighted that the current conditions are ripe for advancing the debt market, thanks to recent developments such as the issuance of the bankruptcy law, the integration of the local market with international depositories to attract foreign investors, and reforms to the tax system for sukuk issuers, investors, and funds.
“We have embarked on the third wave of development for the Saudi financial market by activating debt instruments. The introduction of bankruptcy laws was crucial for energizing the debt markets,” he said.
International issuances planned
Majeed Al-Abduljabbar, CEO of the Saudi Real Estate Refinance Co., shared that in the past three years, his company has become the second-largest issuer in the Kingdom, following the Saudi government.
“In the last three years, we have issued approximately SR20 billion. This year, we plan to execute our first issuance in dollars, aiming to diversify our issuances between riyals and dollars,” Al-Abduljabbar said during the second panel session.
He added: “Our ambition is to significantly increase international issuances. We have made considerable progress in securitization and are focusing on ensuring that supply and demand are established from the outset.”
Al-Abduljabbar noted that to ensure the success of securitization in the Kingdom, it is essential to coordinate with banks and mortgage finance companies to create a robust supply. “We are collaborating with our partners to provide a supply that can be effectively utilized,” he said.
In the past two weeks, Al-Abduljabbar mentioned that agreements have been signed with major global firms, including BlackRock and King Street. He also hinted at forthcoming agreements with other companies to guarantee strong global demand rather than relying solely on local interest.
“Demand in Saudi Arabia is typically limited, often confined to commercial banks. Our issuances are predominantly within commercial banks or the private sector, with 70 to 80 percent of the market share. The number of regular issuers is not extensive, and there are insufficient issuances,” Al-Abduljabbar explained.
He emphasized the need for mandatory valuation processes in Saudi Arabia to ensure transparency and provide accurate pricing of financial products. By making valuation compulsory, the market can enhance pricing accuracy, boost investor confidence, and improve overall market liquidity.
Facilitating foreign investors
Hanan Al-Shehri, CEO of Edaa, highlighted that over the past four years, the volume of issuances in the debt market has surpassed that in the equity markets by more than six times, with the number of outstanding private issuances also doubling.
“Upcoming developments, such as the introduction of a market maker for debt instruments, are expected to have a significantly positive impact,” Al-Shehri said.
She elaborated: “The successful implementation of market makers in the stock market is being adapted for the debt instruments market. This crucial tool for increasing liquidity is anticipated to be operational before the end of the year.”
Al-Shehri also emphasized that the company is working on a project to facilitate private transactions outside of regular trading hours. “This is especially important for foreign investors and institutions who wish to trade outside official hours due to time differences,” she added.
Positive financial outlook
Waleed Al-Rashed Al-Humaid, CEO of Al-Rajhi Capital, reported that in 2024, their total value of issuances exceeded SR100 billion, whether in riyals or US dollars. “This achievement has positioned us as the leading issuer in the local market and the second globally in sukuk issuances, according to Bloomberg rankings,” Al-Humaid added.
From an international perspective, Luke Negal, head of Sovereign Bonds at CME Group, praised Saudi Arabia’s fiscal responsibility and positive financial outlook. “Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to reaffirm its role in international portfolios as a core and attractive holding. The current and upcoming five years present an ideal opportunity for the Kingdom to expand its presence in the global market,” Negal said.
Harnessing the Sun: Saudi Arabia’s solar revolution
Updated 5 sec ago
Reem Walid
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is a world leader when it comes to extracting energy sources from the ground, but it is the Kingdom’s drive to harness a power supply in the sky that is attracting attention.
Favorable government policies, a shift to meeting energy demands through renewable power, and a reduced dependence on fossil fuels are all factors pushing forward the Kingdom’s solar industry.
The ambitious target of Saudi Arabia’s National Renewable Energy Program sees the Kingdom aiming for a solar energy capacity of 40 gigawatts by 2030, promising significant opportunities for the market in the years to come.
According to market research firm Mordor Intelligence, the Kingdom’s solar market is projected to achieve a compound annual growth rate of 51 percent between 2024 and 2029 as a host of facilities come online.
However, challenges lie ahead with the rise of alternative clean energy sources like wind and the continued availability of fossil fuels potentially hindering solar energy market growth.
Solar technologies deployed in Saudi Arabia to maximize energy efficiency
According to Christopher Decker, partner in energy and natural resources at Oliver Wyman, India, Middle East and Africa, Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of innovative solar technologies aimed at maximizing energy efficiency and sustainability in the region.
“One notable advancement is the Dumat Al-Jandal Concentrated Solar Power plant, which harnesses solar energy to heat liquid for thermal energy storage, enabling energy availability even when sunlight is not present,” he said.
“Additionally, the Sakaka Solar Plant employs bifacial solar panels that take advantage of the reflectivity of the surrounding sand, significantly enhancing solar efficiency. To maintain optimal performance, projects like the Noor Energy 1 plant in NEOM have implemented waterless robotic cleaning technologies, which not only ensure high efficiency but also reduce operational costs,” Decker added.
The Oliver Whyman official went on to note that the integration of smart grids and artificial intelligence technologies allows for the optimization of solar energy generation by predicting energy demand and forecasting weather patterns, thereby minimizing waste.
“Lastly, the NEOM Green Hydrogen initiative exemplifies the use of solar power to produce green hydrogen and subsequently green ammonia, showcasing a commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Together, these technologies position Saudi Arabia as a leader in solar innovation, driving the transition toward a more sustainable energy future,” Decker said.
Solar technologies globally have reached a high degree of maturity and the cost reductions are driven by the growing efficiency of solar cells as well as economies of scale.
According to Adnan Merhaba, partner and energy and utilities practice lead at Arthur D. Little Middle East, these incremental innovations have also made their way into Saudi Arabia and some developers have proposed additional developments, such as bifacial solar cells, that can further enhance yields.
“Saudi Arabia, a leader in water desalination technology, is also pioneering solar desalination to enhance sustainability. Furthermore, research institutes in KSA are investing in the next generation of higher efficiency solar cells such as tandem perovskite cells that can achieve a step change for efficiency gains,” Merhaba said.
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology is a prime example of the growing solar industry in Saudi Arabia.
Stefaan De Wolf, professor material science and engineering. (Supplied)
According to Stefaan De Wolf, professor of material science and engineering at the Physical Science and Engineering Division in the university, the institution is pioneering research and development in emerging photovoltaic technologies aimed at maximizing energy efficiency and sustainability.
“One of the key innovations we are advancing is the combination of perovskite and silicon PV, which significantly enhances solar power efficiency beyond traditional technologies. This hybrid approach has the potential to achieve ultra-high efficiency solar cells for even harsh environmental conditions of Saudi Arabia – high temperatures and dust,” De Wolf said.
“Additionally, we are exploring the development of bifacial solar panels, which can generate electricity from both sides, further improving energy yield. These innovations are designed to help Saudi Arabia not only maximize its solar energy potential but also contribute to the global advancement of sustainable energy solutions,” the professor added.
From his side, Qiaoqiang Gan, professor of material science and engineering at the same division, shed light on the fact that industry players are actively seeking advanced thermal management technologies to reduce the operational temperatures of PV systems installed in the Kingdom.
“This challenge is pressing for Middle Eastern countries due to the region’s high temperatures. Addressing this issue requires more reliable materials and devices on a microscopic level, as well as advanced thermal management strategies on an operational level,” Gan said.
Qiaoqiang Gan, professor of material science and engineering. (Supplied)
Shihab Elborai, partner with Strategy& Middle East, noted that projects like the Sudair Solar PV exemplify Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cutting-edge technologies, incorporating bifacial panels and sun-tracking systems to maximize efficiency.
“Saudi Arabia is leveraging world-class innovations in solar energy to not only produce electricity but to create a sustainable model for the entire region,” Elborai said.
“Companies like Mirai Solar are also making strides with multifunctional solar panels that harness diffused sunlight while providing variable shading. These innovations demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s ability to leverage cutting-edge technologies to reduce its carbon footprint and position itself as a global leader in solar energy,” he added.
Solar sector contribution to the Kingdom’s economic diversification and energy goals
The growth of Saudi Arabia’s solar energy industry is vital for the nation’s economic diversification and is in line with the goals of Vision 2030. Through the enhancement of solar power infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is catalyzing the emergence of fresh sectors, enticing international investments, and cultivating a culture of innovation.
“This growth not only supports local manufacturing and supply chains but also generates employment opportunities and enhances human capital development, positioning the Kingdom as a regional leader in renewable energy,” Decker from Oliver Wyman said.
“In terms of energy security, solar power contributes to a resilient and diversified energy mix. By incorporating advanced solar technologies, energy storage, and smart grids, Saudi Arabia can enhance the flexibility and stability of its electricity grid,” he added.
The Oliver Wyman partner continued to highlight that solar-powered initiatives, like green hydrogen production, ensure that the Kingdom adds an additional stream of energy exportation, tapping into new revenue streams while promoting environmental sustainability.
“This strategic expansion strengthens Saudi Arabia’s energy capabilities for the future,” Decker concluded in that regard.
Christopher Decker, Partner in Energy and Natural Resources at Oliver Wyman, India, Middle East and Africa. (Supplied)
Demand for power is ever increasing in the Kingdom, largely driven by economic and population growth as well as giga-scale developments across the country.
“The wide deployment of solar projects can also prop up adjacent sectors such as battery storage, smart grid technologies and green hydrogen production. From an energy security perspective, burning less hydrocarbons for domestic use frees up more oil for export, enhancing revenues for investment in economic diversification and also supports the Kingdom achieve its sustainability goals,” he added.
On KAUST’s behalf, De Wolf explained that by investing in renewable energy, particularly solar power, the Kingdom is reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and building a more sustainable and resilient economy.
As for Gan, he indicated that given its geographical location, Saudi Arabia has an abundance of solar energy, surpassing that of many developed countries – an evident advantage in terms of available sunlight as an energy source.
“However, high temperatures present a significant challenge, leading to overheating in semiconductor solar cells. To effectively implement PV systems in Saudi Arabia, it is essential to develop specialized solutions that fully account for the unique local weather and environmental conditions. Such solutions must aim to maximize the utilization of abundant solar energy while mitigating the adverse impacts on PV performance,” the professor said.
He further noted that developing these specialized solutions will require further research and development, presenting both opportunities and challenges in advancing energy security goals.
Elborai from PwC noted that by shifting toward renewables, the Kingdom is securing a more stable and sustainable energy supply, which supports broader economic growth.
“The localization of renewable energy manufacturing is another critical component. Saudi Arabia is focusing on producing renewable energy components domestically, reducing import dependency and positioning itself as a hub for clean energy technologies. By localizing renewable energy production, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a hub for clean energy technology in the region, enhancing both economic growth and energy security,” he said.
“By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to produce 1.2 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually, with solar energy powering the electrolysis process. This dual focus on solar and hydrogen is expected to drive further economic diversification and solidify the Kingdom’s leadership in green energy,” Elborai added.
Challenges encountered in the Kingdom’s solar industry
The deployment of solar energy in Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges, particularly around localizing the value chain and addressing environmental factors such as high temperatures and dust.
From Decker’s perspective, Saudi Arabia faces several challenges in scaling up its solar energy capacity, two of which are infrastructure limitations and regulatory complexities.
“To address these challenges, Saudi Arabia is investing in modernizing its grid infrastructure through smart grid technologies and energy storage solutions, enabling better management of intermittent solar power. The government is working on streamlined regulatory processes and introducing incentive schemes, such as public-private partnerships and favorable tariffs, to encourage private sector investment, but there is still much to do in this area,” he added.
From Arthur D. Little Middle East’s side, Merhaba said that in order to meet its highly ambitious objectives by 2030, the Kingdom will have to overcome technical challenges, global supply chain issues due to increasing demands for solar cells, and supply concentrated largely in China.
There are also concerns around the disruptions in global trade, the localization and human capital needed to ensure development of a robust and competitive solar value chain industry in the Kingdom, and adequate supply of engineers and technicians to meet the growing demand in the sector.
The country has strong strategies and policies, including national industrial and localization plans, along with other initiatives, that are poised to help them tackle these obstacles effectively.
Saudi Vision 2030 impact on strategies for transitioning toward renewable energy sources
By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to produce approximately 58.7 GW of renewable energy, with solar energy contributing 40 GW to this total.
On behalf of Oliver Wyman, Decker explained that in terms of establishing a regulatory framework to facilitate the development of renewable energy, Vision 2030 outlines the need for a supportive environment.
This involves creating policies that incentivize private sector participation through Power Purchase Agreements that guarantee long-term revenue for investors, subsidies and tariff reforms to make renewable energy more competitive, and streamlined licensing processes to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for solar projects.
With regards to promoting private sector investment, Decker highlighted that the Saudi government is actively encouraging public-private partnerships and foreign direct investment to drive the growth of solar power projects.
“The National Renewable Energy Program, launched under Vision 2030, is a key initiative that seeks to attract $30-$50 billion in investments for renewable energy projects,” he said.
In terms of maintaining a strong traditional energy sector while investing in diversification, Decker added: “While Vision 2030 emphasizes the transition to renewable energy, it also acknowledges the importance of maintaining a robust traditional energy sector, particularly oil and gas, which remain critical to the Kingdom’s economy.”
This comes as Saudi Arabia aims to optimize its oil and gas production through technological advancements and efficiency improvements to ensure the sector continues to generate revenue.
On behalf of Arthur D. Little Middle East, Merhaba highlighted that the Kingdom has undergone a pivotal shift in its economic and energy landscape in recent years.
“It ushered in the era of renewables and accelerated the deployment of solar. With a highly ambitious target to achieve 50 percent renewable adoption by 2030, which are under consideration for an upward revision, it has not only led to development of mega solar projects at record low prices, but also to build momentum in developing national champions across the solar value chain,” he said.
KAUST representative De Wolf reiterated the fact that the Vision has created a favorable climate for investment and development, with ambitious renewable energy targets shaping the future of the Kingdom’s energy mix.
Similarly, Gan emphasized that the Vision 2030 has created fertile ground for solar energy development, with policies that incentivize public-private partnerships and invest heavily in renewable energy infrastructure.
“This initiative aims to diversify the Kingdom’s energy mix by transitioning toward cleaner, more sustainable energy sources,” he said.
From PwC’s side, Elborai explained that the National Renewable Energy Program is central to this.
“By 2060, Saudi Arabia aims to reach Net Zero status, supported by significant financial commitments, such as the planned $266 billion investment in cleaner energy sources, including solar,” he said.
“The Kingdom is actively developing projects with a capacity of 20 GW annually to meet its target of 100 GW to 130 GW of clean energy by 2030. This strategic framework also emphasizes localizing renewable energy manufacturing, with collaborations like the Public Investment Fund’s partnership with Chinese solar manufacturers to establish 30 GW of solar PV production capacity. The NREP is not just about generating clean energy — it’s about securing the Kingdom’s energy future and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels,” the PwC partner said.
Wake up and smell the climate crisis: coffee prices set to increase in 2025
Price rises come as the global coffee industry battled a perfect storm of challenges, with climate change, supply chain disruptions, and global market forces all having an impactThe price rises came as the global coffee industry battled a perfect stor
Updated 10 min ago
MIGUEL HADCHITY
RIYADH: It is the caffeine, not the cost, of a morning coffee that is supposed to help you shake off any lingering sleepiness, but the world’s wake-up drink of choice is set to get more expensive in 2025.
December saw the cost of Arabica beans hit a record high on the global commodities market, while Robusta prices nearly doubled in 2024, reaching $5,694 a tonne by late November.
The price rises came as the global coffee industry battled a perfect storm of challenges, with climate change, supply chain disruptions, and global market forces all having an impact.
It is against this backdrop that Saudi Arabia is looking to expand its involvement in the sector, with the Middle East consuming more than its fair share of the product.
The International Coffee Organization estimated that 6.3 million 60-kg bags of coffee were drunk in the Middle East in the year 2022/23 – 3.6 percent of the world’s consumption.
“The region’s population is 196 million, or 2.6 percent of the world’s population. The region is consuming above its share,” the organization noted.
Dock No, statistical coordinator with the Secretariat of the ICO, highlighted that Saudi Arabia became the second country in the Middle East to become a member of the International Coffee Organization, when the country signed the International Coffee Agreement in February.
“The coffee sector in Saudi Arabia is growing fast and is an important part of our plans for the future and the change we wish to bring to our country as it contributes to diversifying the national economy,” No said.
The coffee organization highlighted the Saudi Coffee Co., a new venture launched by the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund. With a $319 million investment over 10 years, the company aims to significantly expand Saudi Arabia’s coffee production from 300 tonnes annually to 2,500 tonnes.
This growth will be driven by a focus on sustainability throughout the coffee supply chain, from production to distribution and marketing.
“Varieties are a key tool for any agricultural system, and improved varieties will contribute to productive climate resilient coffee systems in Saudi Arabia, just like anywhere else,” Long said.
A global challenge
Andrew Hetzel, a coffee and high-value agriculture specialist, told Arab News that climate change, particularly prolonged droughts and unpredictable weather patterns, is directly affecting bean crops.
Brazil, which primarily produces arabica, and Vietnam, which is the largest robusta producer, are experiencing unseasonably dry weather, leading to lower yields and quality for the 2024/25 season.
The South American country is also the second-largest robusta producer, and has faced crop yield losses due to unusually dry weather in key growing regions. No also noted the country’s vulnerability to past extreme events like the frost of July 2021 that affected its crop.
Hetzel said: “Brazil is the most sophisticated agribusiness producer of coffee as a nation, but even they do not irrigate all of their fields.”
CEO of World Coffee Research, Jennifer Vern Long emphasized in an interview with Arab News the urgency of increasing coffee productivity globally to meet growing demand.
She said: “Improving productivity doesn’t just ensure the supply of coffee can keep up with demand, it also decreases carbon emissions from coffee farming.”
Long further explained that current investments in coffee agricultural R&D, which stand at only $115 million per year, are far too low for a sector with such global significance.
Vern Long at the WCR Research Farm, Flor Amarilla, standing next to a promising new coffee variety. (World Coffee Research)
This surge in robusta prices is driven by a mix of climate-related challenges, geopolitical issues, and tightening supply chains.
In Vietnam production is expected to fall by 10 percent for the 2023/24 season, and the ICO’s No told Arab News that Vietnam’s local markets have reported domestic stocks running low.
Adding to these pressures is the disruption of key global trade routes. The Red Sea crisis has heavily impacted shipping, particularly for exports from Vietnam and Indonesia to Europe.
Roasters are now grappling with longer shipping times and higher costs due to rising insurance premiums and intense competition for container space.
As a result, robusta inventories are plummeting. By January 2024, certified robusta stocks had dropped to 0.48 million 60-kg bags, a sharp 15.4 percent decline on the previous month, according to a report by the ICO.
The ICO’s coordinator explained that coffee stocks in Europe have fallen by almost half since 2021, reducing from 15.5 million 60-kg bags to 8.7 million.
Hetzel said some coffee prices are still being impacted from the COVID-19 pandemic, pointing to its effects on transport costs. “The cost of ocean freight from Indonesia to North America quadrupled as exporters fought for empty containers and ship bookings. Container shortages persist today,” he said.
No added that shipping disruptions through the Suez and Panama canals in the past 12 months have only exacerbated these logistical issues, forcing coffee exporters to take longer routes, which added to the cost.
Though green coffee bean exports saw a 12.6 percent increase in December 2023 compared to the previous year, this short-term boost is unlikely to ease the growing strain on supply.
Innovation needed to address coffee’s sustainability crisis
A recent report by World Coffee Research set out how the sector faces an innovation crisis that requires urgent attention, particularly in the wake of climate change.
The organization’s CEO explained that a significant increase in global investment — around $452 million per year — is required over the next decade to meet rising demand while mitigating climate-related yield losses.
The report emphasized that climate change is reducing coffee origin diversity and endangering smallholder production. This, combined with rising demand, could further destabilize the industry if not addressed.
Hetzel also underscored the vulnerability of smallholder farmers, particularly in developing regions. “The vast majority of coffee production is in fragile states that are highly susceptible to climate change,” he said, adding that many smallholder farmers are likely to be severely impacted by economic losses, leading to food insecurity, conflict, and out-migration.
How climate change will continue to drive up prices
Compounding these issues is the broader impact of climate change. The recent declaration of an El Nino weather event by the US Climate Prediction Center is expected to bring more drought to Vietnam and excessive rains to Brazil, further threatening coffee production.
Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine has driven up fertilizer prices and energy costs, adding to the financial burden on coffee growers and roasters alike. As Hetzel noted: “The war in Ukraine has increased energy costs downstream from the farm – transportation, roasting, and distribution costs have all risen.”
No also highlighted the broader effects of inflation and rising input costs on coffee producers, particularly those in the Americas dealing with seasonal labor shortages.
According to the WCR report, increased global investment is essential to ensure the long-term viability of coffee producers. Long warned that without action, the industry will continue to experience supply constraints and rising prices.
For the global coffee industry, navigating this turbulent environment requires vigilance and greater investment in innovation. As supply constraints and climate events continue to unfold, traders, roasters, and consumers alike are bracing for what could be a prolonged period of high coffee prices.
Saudi Arabia emerging as global cybersecurity guardian: digital experts
Updated 20 December 2024
Nadin Hassan
RIYADH: From protecting its growing digital infrastructure to exporting cybersecurity technologies and expertise, Saudi Arabia is emerging as a key player in addressing global cyber threats.
The Kingdom has made significant strides in developing its technology infrastructure, a key pillar of its Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil.
This digital transformation has been accompanied by a comprehensive approach to online safety – including the adoption of the National Cybersecurity Strategy, which focuses on creating a secure digital landscape that supports rapid technological advancements.
“The growth of Saudi Arabia’s tech infrastructure has substantially enhanced its cybersecurity capabilities,” Sohil Mohamed, director, cyber risk advisory lead at Alvarez & Marsal told Arab News.
He praised the National Cybersecurity Strategy, saying that it prioritizes resilience, secure digital landscapes, and trust.
This strategic approach ensures that Saudi Arabia’s technological growth is supported by adaptive risk management and dynamic defense mechanisms.
In addition to the government’s efforts, the private sector has also played a critical role in building a secure digital ecosystem.
The expanding cybersecurity market in Saudi Arabia
As one of the fastest-growing markets in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity sector is valued at approximately SR13.3 billion.
This rapidly expanding market offers substantial opportunities for public-private partnerships, particularly in developing advanced cybersecurity solutions and creating new business models for commercial involvement.
Additionally, the Saudi government’s focus on digital transformation and cybersecurity has opened new avenues for investment.
“Key areas of focus include the development of advanced cybersecurity solutions, engagement in public-private partnerships, and contributions to national initiatives such as the Cybersecurity Catalyst Program spearheaded by the National Cybersecurity Authority,” Mohamed said.
These initiatives are driving a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors to strengthen the Kingdom’s cyber resilience.
Saudi Arabia’s investment in the sector also positions it as a key player in the global cybersecurity market.
The government has partnered with international organizations and cybersecurity firms to enhance its capabilities and bolster the country’s readiness to handle large-scale cyber threats.
This proactive stance is evident in Saudi Arabia’s role as host of major events, such as the Global Cybersecurity Forum, which brings together industry leaders.
Sohil Mohamed, director, cyber risk advisory lead at Alvarez & Marsal. Supplied
Protecting national infrastructure – a key priority
Critical Information Infrastructure Protection has become a top priority for Saudi Arabia as it seeks to secure vital sectors, such as energy, finance, and transportation, from cyber threats.
The Kingdom has experienced several high-profile cyberattacks, most notably the Shamoon attack in 2012, which targeted Saudi Aramco, one of the world’s largest energy companies.
This incident underscored the importance of building robust cybersecurity measures to protect national assets.
Saudi corporations are increasingly focused on quantifying the economic impact of potential cyberattacks, particularly in industries that form the backbone of the national economy.
“Saudi corporations are progressively implementing sophisticated risk assessment tools and methodologies to quantify the economic impact of cyber threats,” Mohamed said.
He explained that this includes evaluating potential financial losses, operational disruptions, and reputational damage from cyber incidents.
Additionally, cyber insurance is becoming a critical tool for mitigating risks. This provides financial protection against potential cyberattacks and promotes the adoption of best practices across industries.
The growing reliance on cyber insurance reflects the increased awareness among Saudi businesses of the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures.
Exporting cybersecurity expertise and technology
Saudi Arabia’s progress in cybersecurity is not only benefitting the Kingdom but also positioning it as a global leader capable of exporting expertise and technologies.
The National Cybersecurity Authority has been instrumental in fostering international collaborations and creating platforms for knowledge sharing.
Initiatives such as the National Cybersecurity Academy provide advanced training to professionals, equipping them with the skills needed to address both domestic and international challenges.
Alvarez & Marsal’s Mohamed said: “By leveraging its robust cybersecurity frameworks and strategic partnerships, Saudi Arabia can offer tailored cybersecurity services and solutions to other regions. Initiatives such as the National Cybersecurity Academy by the NCA.”
This capacity for exporting cybersecurity solutions will allow Saudi Arabia to play a critical role in addressing global online threats.
Moreover, the Kingdom’s strategic location and status as a regional economic hub make it a key player in cybersecurity across the Middle East and North Africa region.
Saudi Arabia is increasingly seen as a model for other countries seeking to enhance their cybersecurity frameworks. Its experience in managing threats and building resilient digital infrastructure has positioned it as a leader in this space.
The Kingdom’s efforts to protect its critical infrastructure are seen not just as a defensive necessity but also as a key pillar in positioning the Kingdom as a leader in global cybersecurity. Vision 2030 has been a central driver of this transformation.
Events such as the Global Cybersecurity Forum have cemented Saudi Arabia’s leadership position. File
Samer Omar, cybersecurity and digital trust leader at PwC Middle East, highlighted to Arab News how the Kingdom’s digital growth has shaped its cybersecurity strategy.
“Saudi Arabia has achieved fourth place globally in the digital services index, first regionally, and second among G20 nations. The rapid advance in technology has increased the digital ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, which in turn has further increased its exposure to cyber-attacks,” Omar said.
He added: “In response, the Kingdom has successfully orchestrated a combination of regulations, investments, and awareness which has propelled most sectors to adopt a proactive security by design approach.”
This proactive approach allowed Saudi Arabia to secure the highest ranking possible in the UN Global Cybersecurity Index 2024, a reflection of the Kingdom’s investment in a secure digital future.
Omar pointed out that Vision 2030 has accelerated the investment in human capital to build critical national capability and aid nationals in attaining key cybersecurity skills and certifications.
He also emphasized the vital role Vision 2030 plays in safeguarding the Kingdom’s critical sectors, particularly energy, finance, and smart cities, which are integral to the nation’s economy.
“Saudi Arabia faces compelling challenges in these critical sectors due to the complex infrastructure, creating a potentially vulnerable and vast attack surface for adversaries,” Omar said.
Omar noted Saudi Arabia’s determination to not only secure its own digital landscape but also position itself as a cybersecurity leader on the global stage.
This leadership is exemplified by initiatives like the Global Cybersecurity Forum, which Omar describes as “a unique ecosystem and platform that is actively engaging with leading bodies such as the World Economic Forum,” thus shaping the future of cybersecurity well beyond the Kingdom.
Addressing the cybersecurity talent gap
Saudi Arabia has been proactively addressing the shortage of cybersecurity talent by heavily investing in capacity-building programs supported by both public and private sectors.
“There are an estimated 19,600 Saudi cybersecurity professionals with 32 percent of them being female,” Omar said.
He continued: “In addition, most major universities have cybersecurity education and training including Capture The Flag competitions, and all the major cybersecurity technology vendors provide training on their products and services.”
These efforts are integral to the country’s broader vision of strengthening its digital infrastructure under Vision 2030.
A secure future
According to Omar, the cybersecurity industry in Saudi Arabia is projected to experience significant growth in the coming years, driven by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative and robust regulatory frameworks.
“NCA released a report this year that estimates the size of the cybersecurity market to be SR13.3 billion with 31 percent of the spending from the public sector and the remaining 69 percent from the private sector,” he said.
Omar went on to say: “Some analysts estimate the cybersecurity CAGR to be between 11 percent to 13 percent.”
This is due to Vision 2030, which serves as a catalyst for developing the digital ecosystem, Omar explained, emphasizing the strategic role of the initiative in shaping the country’s cyber transformation.
KARACHI: Pakistan’s Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has waived off customs and regulatory duties on imports from Azerbaijan under the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Preferential Trade Agreement, the finance ministry said in a notification this month.
During Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev’s two-day visit to Pakistan in July, both nations agreed to enhance the volume of bilateral trade to $2 billion, vowing to strengthen ties and increase cooperation in mutually beneficial economic projects. They also signed the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Preferential Trade Agreement to boost economic cooperation through the reduction of tariffs on goods like Pakistani sports equipment, leather, and pharmaceuticals as well as Azerbaijani oil and gas products.
“The federal government is pleased to exempt with effect from Dec. 16, 2024, the import into Pakistan from Azerbaijan of the goods specified,” the finance ministry said in a notification. adding that imports from Azerbaijan would be exempted from all kinds of tariffs including customs duty, additional customs duty and regulatory duty.
“Provided that where the rates of customs duty, additional customs duty, and regulatory duty [...] are higher than specified rates, the lower rates [...] shall apply,” it added.
The tariff concessions cover items including shelled hazelnuts or filberts, apricots, vegetable saps and extracts, non-stemmed tobacco, polyethylene, propylene copolymers, casing, tubing, drill pipes and refined copper wire with a maximum cross-sectional dimension exceeding 6 mm.
In recent weeks, there has been a flurry of visits, investment talks and economic activity between officials from Pakistan and the Central Asian nations as well as other transcontinental and landlocked countries like Azerbaijan as Islamabad seeks to consolidate the South Asian nation’s role as a pivotal trade and transit hub.
Oil Updates – crude falls on demand growth concerns, robust dollar
Updated 20 December 2024
Reuters
LONDON, Dec 20 : Oil prices fell on Friday on worries about demand growth in 2025, especially in top crude importer China, putting global oil benchmarks on track to end the week down more than 3 percent.
Brent crude futures fell by 32 cents, or 0.4 percent, to $72.56 a barrel by 4:09 p.m. Saudi time. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures also eased 32 cents, or 0.5 percent, to $69.06 per barrel.
Chinese state-owned refiner Sinopec said in its annual energy outlook released on Thursday that China’s crude imports could peak as soon as 2025 and the country’s oil consumption would peak by 2027 as diesel and gasoline demand weaken.
“Benchmark crude prices are in a prolonged consolidation phase as the market heads toward the year-end weighed by uncertainty in oil demand growth,” said Emril Jamil, senior research specialist at LSEG.
He added that OPEC+ would require supply discipline to perk up prices and soothe jittery market nerves over continuous revisions of its demand growth outlook. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, together called OPEC+, recently cut its growth forecast for 2024 global oil demand for a fifth straight month.
JPMorgan sees the oil market moving from balance in 2024 to a surplus of 1.2 million barrels per day in 2025, as the bank forecasts non-OPEC+ supply increasing by 1.8 million bpd in 2025 and OPEC output remaining at current levels.
Meanwhile, the dollar’s climb to near a two-year high also weighed on oil prices, after the US Federal Reserve flagged it would be cautious about cutting interest rates in 2025.
A stronger dollar makes oil more expensive for holders of other currencies, while a slower pace of rate cuts could dampen economic growth and trim oil demand.
US President-elect Donald Trump said on Friday that the EU may face tariffs if the bloc does not cut its growing deficit with the US by making large oil and gas trades with the world’s largest economy.
In a move that could pare supply, G7 countries are considering ways to tighten the price cap on Russian oil, such as with an outright ban or by lowering the price threshold, Bloomberg reported on Thursday.
Russia has circumvented the $60 per barrel cap imposed in 2022 using its “shadow fleet” of ships, which the EU and UK have targeted with further sanctions in recent days.
