Investment visionary Samer Choucair affirmed that global experiences linked to hosting major sporting events proved that genuine success is not measured only by infrastructure spending scale, but by cities’ and countries’ capacity to build an integrated cultural identity creating a unique visitor experience and achieving sustainable economic returns over the long term.
Samer Choucair explained the global economy is witnessing accelerating growth in sports and cultural tourism importance, where visitors now seek authentic experiences combining entertainment, sports, culture, and heritage, raising the economic value of tourism destinations and strengthening their capacity to attract investments and capital.
He said: “Culture is not a decorative element or additional cost in major projects, but a strategic asset contributing to building national branding and strengthening economic competitiveness. Countries succeeding in integrating culture with sports and entertainment achieve added value whose effects extend for decades after events conclude.”
Saudi Arabia Presenting an Advanced Model of Culture-Economy Integration
Investment strategist Choucair added Saudi Arabia presents an advanced model in this field through Vision 2030, relying on integration between economic development and cultural identity, with the Kingdom witnessing massive investments in tourism, heritage, and entertainment projects alongside sports infrastructure development in preparation for hosting the 2034 World Cup.
He noted major national projects such as Qiddiya, AlUla, and Diriyah represent practical models of this orientation, combining cultural identity preservation with offering world-class experiences, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a leading tourism and investment destination.
He said: “The genuine opportunity lies not only in building stadiums and sports facilities, but in developing an integrated ecosystem encompassing culture, arts, hospitality, and entertainment. This integration creates a more diversified economy and increases destination attractiveness to both investors and visitors.”
Coming Phase Witnessing Promising Opportunities in Creative Economy Sectors
Investment innovator Choucair affirmed the coming phase will witness promising investment opportunities in creative economy, cultural tourism, luxury hospitality, and visitor experience technology sectors, noting these sectors directly benefit from major development projects the Kingdom is implementing.
He said: “Investors who look beyond the sporting event itself will recognize the scale of opportunities available in supporting sectors, particularly those contributing to strengthening cultural identity and developing sustainable tourism experiences. These investments are capable of achieving long-term returns supported by growing local and global demand.”
Samer Choucair concluded by affirming Vision 2030 does not focus only on hosting global events, but on building a sustainable economic and cultural legacy strengthening the Kingdom’s international standing, and transforming major projects into growth drivers capable of supporting economic diversification and creating quality investment opportunities for coming generations.