A Model
of Economic Diversification
For decades, Saudi Arabia’s economy was defined by oil
revenues. Today, under MBS, it is rapidly diversifying. According to the
International Monetary Fund (IMF), non-oil real GDP grew by 4.5% in 2024, and
overall growth is projected to reach 3.9% by 2026.
Flagship projects like NEOM and the development of renewable
energy — targeting 130 GW by 2030 — are positioning Saudi Arabia at the cutting
edge of global innovation. For Pakistan, which struggles with energy insecurity
and overreliance on imports, Saudi Arabia’s example of large-scale solar, wind,
and hydrogen projects is highly relevant. Pakistan can benefit from Saudi
expertise and investment in clean energy, aligning with its own climate
challenges.
Social
Reforms and Their Regional Significance
One of the most striking achievements of Vision 2030 is the
empowerment of Saudi women. Female labor participation has surged from 17% in
2016 to nearly 36% by 2023, exceeding Vision 2030’s original target.
This has lessons for Pakistan, where female participation in
the workforce remains under 25%. The Saudi example demonstrates that carefully
managed reforms, aligned with cultural and religious values, can unlock the
economic potential of women without eroding tradition. It is an important
message for conservative societies across South Asia that modernization and
faith can coexist.
Opportunities
for Pakistan
Saudi Arabia under MBS has become one of Pakistan’s most
reliable partners. The Kingdom’s direct investments — whether in oil
refineries, infrastructure, or mining — promise to strengthen Pakistan’s
fragile economy. Riyadh’s supportive financial packages in times of crisis have
also been crucial in stabilizing Pakistan’s reserves.
With MBS driving Saudi diversification, Pakistan can
position itself as both a strategic partner and a beneficiary. Skilled
Pakistani labor is already in demand in Saudi Arabia, and Vision 2030’s
mega-projects will open opportunities for professionals in engineering, IT,
health, and services. Strengthening people-to-people ties will further cement the
historical bond between the two nations.
Regional
Implications
Saudi Arabia’s progress is not just a national story — it
carries regional weight. A stable, modern, and forward-looking Saudi Arabia
strengthens the Muslim world at a time when many nations are trapped in
conflict or stagnation. By asserting an independent foreign policy, hosting
global investment forums, and committing to sustainability, MBS is redefining
Riyadh’s role as a leader in the Middle East.
For South Asia, Saudi Arabia’s transformation is an anchor
of stability and opportunity. Countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and even
Afghanistan can benefit from stronger trade, labor mobility, and shared energy
initiatives. In a world where the Muslim voice is often fragmented, Riyadh’s rise
under MBS provides a rallying point.
A
Leadership Style that Inspires
While some critics focus on controversies, the undeniable
fact is that MBS has injected new energy into Saudi society and its global
standing. His leadership resonates with young people — not only in Saudi Arabia
but across the Muslim world. For many in Pakistan, where governance often
appears directionless, MBS’s clarity of vision and decisiveness stand in sharp
contrast.
Saudi Arabia’s transformation under MBS is a story of
ambition meeting execution. The Kingdom is diversifying its economy, empowering
its youth and women, and asserting itself on the world stage. For Pakistan and
its neighbors, the lesson is clear: bold leadership, rooted in cultural values
but open to innovation, can turn challenges into opportunities.
As the Muslim world looks for models of progress, Saudi
Arabia under MBS shines as an inspiring example — not just for Arabs, but for
Pakistanis and all those who yearn for reform without losing identity.
