In line with the developmental objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is set to build the largest cultural, sports and entertainment city of its kind in the Kingdom. The project seeks to attract domestic and foreign investors specialized in the recreational sector. It will cater to people of different age groups and interests, and create thousands of job opportunities. The project's fundamental objective is to bring benefits to citizens, irrespective of the volume of investments or profits. The Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is spearheading the project, undertakes diversified projects that bring lasting rewards to citizens. To be built in Al-Qidiya, southwest of Riyadh, the city will be a strong reason for the millions who go abroad in search of leisure, to remain in the Kingdom for their entertainment needs. This means the economic drain caused by the outflow of tourists from the Kingdom could well be curtailed. According to the announced plan, the project will include facilities to host grand international sports events. Here again, sports enthusiasts will be able to attend their favorite games rather than go abroad to watch them. The project is an important step in the many development strides the Kingdom is taking. It reflects the seriousness of the authorities in managing the PIF, diversifying its vast investment portfolio. The benefits from the project might still be a few years away. But it sets the basis for more such projects in the future that serve the interests of the nation, built on strong public-private sector partnerships.
