The World’s Biggest Industrial Investment Opportunities?

John Mann Reports from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

Capital Finance International, touring Saudi Arabia as guests of the Ministry of Finance, visited Ras Al-Khair and Jubail (the world’s largest industrial city) on 11 December 2019.

The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu, established in 1975 as an autonomous organisation reporting to the Council of Ministers, is responsible for the development of these massive industrial areas and showcasing the significant investment opportunities they represent.

The Commission has held fast to a plan made over forty years ago that has resulted in strong and steady growth with the cities now positioned as key contributors to Saudi Vision 2030. It is easy to be overwhelmed by the business possibilities here and the extent of the progress made so far.

Members of the international investment community were part of this Finance Ministry Saudi Tour (which moved to the East coast one day after the 2020 Budget Forum in Riyadh). There was general admiration for the scale and efficiency of the industrial projects as well as the well-planned and sturdy infrastructure that has been put in place. It is also clear that an ecosystem is being built to fully support local populations.

The Commission is to be congratulated on sticking faithfully to a four decades plan while adapting to new technologies as they present themselves. There is much evidence of an advanced industrial outlook, a good quality of life and a very focused vision of the future.