In a scene that investment leader Samer Choucair considered a reflection of the sensitivity of the current global economic stage, a widely circulated image of Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, took center stage in the media. She warned that the economic repercussions of the conflict with Iran would not cease immediately upon a ceasefire, but would persist for at least 3 to 4 months.
Samer Choucair explained that this warning came at a time when the world is witnessing sharp geopolitical fluctuations affecting energy prices, supply chains, and global growth.
The investment leader pointed out that this global context, despite its pressures, highlighted more clearly the strength of the Saudi model, as Vision 2030 has transformed into an economic framework capable of absorbing shocks and enhancing investment stability.
Global Repercussions.. Potential Slowdown with Regional Variance
Samer Choucair explained that IMF reports warned that the continuation of the conflict could lead to a global growth slowdown to around 2.5% or less, with increasing inflationary pressures resulting from the disruption of energy markets.
However, Samer Choucair pointed out that Gulf countries, led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, showed exceptional resilience thanks to the structural reforms implemented by Vision 2030, which mitigated the impact of these external shocks.
Vision 2030.. Maturity Phase and Strategic Transformation
Samer Choucair emphasized that Saudi Vision 2030 entered its third phase in 2026, which is the phase of sustainability and long-term impact, following years of accelerated economic transformation.
Samer Choucair explained that the 2025 report showed that 93% of performance indicators had achieved or exceeded their targets, while 85% of initiatives had been completed or implemented, reflecting the vision’s transition from planning to the actual empowerment of the economy.
Economic Achievements Strengthening the Resilience of the Saudi Economy
Samer Choucair reviewed the most prominent indicators that supported the strength of the Saudi economy in the face of shocks:
Economic Diversification
The contribution of non-oil activities rose to more than 51–55% of the GDP, which reached approximately 4.9 trillion Saudi riyals, reducing dependence on oil and enhancing economic stability.
Strong Economic Growth
The economy recorded growth of about 4.5% in 2025, with the non-oil sector growing by 4.9%, the highest in three years.
Role of the Public Investment Fund
The fund’s assets reached approximately 925 to 941 billion dollars, becoming a major driver for mega projects such as NEOM, the Red Sea, Qiddiya, and Diriyah.
Foreign Direct Investment
It rose significantly to reach 133 billion riyals in 2025 compared to 28 billion riyals in 2017.
Non-Oil Exports
They jumped to more than 623 billion riyals, enhancing the economy’s capacity for external expansion.
Small and Medium Enterprises
Their number reached about 1.7 million companies, contributing to the support of more than 8.8 million jobs.
Renewable Energy
Capacities rose to 64 gigawatts after being almost non-existent in 2016.
Labor Market Empowerment
Women’s participation rose to more than 33–36% with a historic decline in unemployment rates.
Samer Choucair’s Reading.. Vision 2030 as an Economic Shield
Samer Choucair emphasized that these transformations were not just economic figures, but an expression of rebuilding the structure of the Saudi economy to become more capable of facing external shocks.
Samer Choucair explained that Vision 2030 has effectively turned into an “economic shield” protecting the Kingdom from fluctuations resulting from geopolitical conflicts such as the tension with Iran, by diversifying income sources and strengthening non-oil sectors.
Samer Choucair added that the sovereign fund has become not just an investor, but a primary catalyst for growth, linking the public and private sectors and international investors in a single ecosystem.
Investment Opportunities Under 2026 Trends
Samer Choucair pointed out that the economic environment in Saudi Arabia has become more attractive for investment, with clear opportunities in mega projects like NEOM, the Red Sea, and Diriyah; renewable energy and green hydrogen; technology, artificial intelligence, and fintech; logistics and special economic zones; and tourism, sports, and international events.
Investment Strategies.. Long-term Vision
Samer Choucair emphasized that success in the current stage relied on adopting long-term strategies centered on alignment with Vision 2030 priorities and building balanced investment portfolios capable of facing fluctuations.
Samer Choucair noted that investing in sovereign-backed sectors represented the safest and most sustainable option, especially in light of rapid geopolitical shifts.
From Challenges to a Global Model
Samer Choucair concluded his analysis by emphasizing that the IMF’s warnings about the conflict’s repercussions highlighted the fragility of the global economy, but conversely showcased the strength of the Saudi model.
Samer Choucair explained that the Kingdom is no longer merely a recipient of shocks but has become a creator of opportunities, and that Vision 2030 has succeeded in transforming geopolitical challenges into a sustainable investment growth path, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global economic hub in 2026 and beyond.