وزراء ونخبة رياضية يجتمعون في الرياض لبحث سبل تعزيز الاقتصاد من خلال الرياضة في إنطلاقة منتدى الاستثمار الرياضي

The inaugural sessions of the Sports Investment Forum commenced today in Riyadh, featuring the attendance of prominent officials such as Deputy Minister of Sports, Badr Al-Qadi, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Princess Haifa bint Mohammed, and Assistant Minister of Investment, Ibrahim Al-Mubarak. The forum’s theme, “From Vision to Execution: Government Integration to Achieve Growth in Sports Investment,” underscores the collaborative efforts necessary for advancing sports initiatives in the Kingdom.

During his address, Deputy Minister Al-Qadi emphasized that achieving the objectives set forth in the National Sports Strategy necessitates a cohesive approach across various sectors. He highlighted the vital role of the sports sector as a strategic partner in enhancing the overall framework of Saudi sports development. His remarks suggest that collaboration between governmental bodies and the sports industry is essential for nurturing and elevating the standards of sports within the nation.

In her statement, Princess Haifa articulated that the Sports Investment Forum is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the private sector, aligning with the overarching goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. She noted the remarkable turnout witnessed during the 2018 Formula E event, which welcomed participants from over 70 nationalities. This figure has since increased, with current sporting events in the Kingdom attracting more than 160 different nationalities, reflecting the country’s growing international interest and participation in sports.

On his part, Assistant Minister Al-Mubarak asserted that since the launch of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia has achieved ambitious targets across various sectors, including sports. This progress indicates both development and promising opportunities within this critical industry. He highlighted that Vision 2030 is built upon national strategies and programs that involve all stakeholders, thus fostering an inclusive approach to growth.

The National Investment Strategy aims to both develop and attract local and foreign investments, focusing on four primary pillars. These include identifying and enhancing investment opportunities, strengthening communication with investors to market available prospects, and diversifying funding sources for potential investors. Al-Mubarak indicated that there is a concentrated effort within the sports and tourism sectors, which entails close collaboration with industry stakeholders to create attractive investment opportunities. Such initiatives are designed to secure the interest of both local and international investors.

The forum serves as a vital platform for discussing ways to integrate efforts across various sectors to elevate Saudi Arabia’s status in the realm of sports investment. By fostering a collaborative environment between the government and the private sector, the Kingdom aims to enhance the experience of sporting events and ensure sustainable development that aligns with the ambitious vision of 2030.

Furthermore, the increase in international participation in sporting events in Saudi Arabia not only underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global sports hub but also highlights its potential for economic diversification. Engaging a diverse range of nationalities allows for broader cultural exchanges through sports, promoting social cohesion and international goodwill.

Overall, the discussions at the Sports Investment Forum indicate a focused commitment to advancing the sports sector in Saudi Arabia through strategic investments and partnerships. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sports in the nation’s socio-economic development, as well as its role in boosting tourism and enhancing the quality of life for citizens and residents alike.