Articles & Insights
Explore our latest thoughts, analyses, and perspectives on global opportunities
Oil and Its Curse: The Path of Resource-Dependent Nations
Why nations built on oil wealth follow different political and economic rules than taxation-based states—and why the resource model creates both stability and deep structural fragility.
Water as Weapon or Weakness: Why Saudi Arabia's Thirst Could Undermine Its Energy Transition
Saudi Arabia is consuming its most valuable global asset—oil—to secure its most basic human necessity: water. This article explores how desalination threatens the Kingdom's emissions targets, energy transition, and export strategy—and why solar-powered desalination must move from pilot to policy.
Energy Citizenship: Youth, Oil, and the Making of Saudi Civic Identity
Exploring how Saudi Arabia is shaping a new generation's civic identity around energy stewardship, from Ithra's educational programs to the cultural reframing of oil from miracle to mandate.
It's Showtime: Saudi Arabia's Push Towards Your TV Screen
Exploring Saudi Arabia's entertainment renaissance, from viral Ramadan dramas like Al-Asha Street to the MBC Group's dominance in MENA media and the emergence of Saudi cinema.
Impact of Alcohol Restrictions on Tourism in Saudi Arabia
Exploring how Saudi Arabia's alcohol prohibition affects its tourism industry, the potential for limited relaxation of restrictions, and the delicate balance between cultural values and global traveler expectations.
A True Middle Power: What The Israel-Iran War Shows About Saudi Arabia's Future
Exploring how Saudi Arabia has transformed from a regional war power into a global middle power, mediating conflicts from Ukraine to Sudan while maintaining ties with both East and West.
Red Sea Coastal Infrastructure for Luxury Tourism Development
Exploring how Saudi Arabia is transforming the Red Sea coast into a luxury tourism hub through innovative infrastructure, from the Red Sea International Airport to sustainable energy systems and high-tech mobility solutions.
Investing in the Future: The Rise of the Saudi Stock Market
Exploring how Saudi Arabia is transforming its stock market into a global financial hub, from the historic Aramco IPO to increasing foreign investment and female leadership in finance.
Playing The Long Game: How Saudi Arabia Won Football
Exploring how Saudi Arabia strategically invested in football as both a soft power tool and economic driver, from the Saudi Pro League to hosting the 2034 World Cup.
Lipstick or Lithium: Saudi Arabia's Most Powerful Exports Aren't What You Think
Exploring how Saudi Arabia is strategically investing in the beauty industry as a soft power tool, from Riyadh Fashion Week to homegrown brands like Asteri Beauty, reshaping the Kingdom's global image.
Faith, Fintech, and Crypto: Reshaping Saudi Arabia's Financial Landscape
Exploring how Saudi Arabia is creating a unique FinTech ecosystem that harmoniously blends Islamic faith with financial innovation, from Islamic banking to blockchain technology.
All Aboard: How Saudi Railways Are Picking Up Speed
Exploring Saudi Arabia's ambitious railway expansion plans, from the Riyadh Metro to international connections linking Africa and Asia, as the Kingdom positions itself as a global logistics hub.
Zakat and Algorithmic Charity: How AI is Changing Traditional Islamic Charity Distribution Systems
Exploring how AI and blockchain technology are transforming traditional Zakat distribution systems in Saudi Arabia, improving efficiency and transparency while maintaining religious integrity.