Riyadh: The capital city of Saudi Arabia recorded a huge jump in the World Cultural City Index. According to management consultant Kearney’s Global Cities Report, which examines the impact of social, economic and political developments on cities, Riyadh is the highest-scoring city in the world. A jump of 46 points was recorded in the global index.
The high ranking in the index is believed to be a recognition of the extensive social and cultural achievements that the country has achieved since the formation of Saudi Arabia’s National Cultural Policy in 2019. According to last year’s data from the Ministry of Culture, there are 304 museums, 85 libraries, 262 theaters, 75 art galleries, as many exhibition halls, 54 cinemas, 20 literary galleries. Coffee shops are also functioning. There has been a significant increase in many of these in recent years.
Kearney’s Transformations Institute Partner Rudolf Lohmeyer said Saudi Arabia’s progressive policies and decisions not only lead the country to sustainable growth, but also protect the long-term well-being of its citizens and residents. He opined that the progress of the capital city is also a result of the government’s efforts to create a vibrant community under the comprehensive transformation plan ‘Vision 2030’.
“People living in a thriving economy being aware of and proud of their cultural heritage is a good cultural experience for Riyadh, especially when civil society is committed to contributing to the country’s economic and cultural success,” added Lohmeyer.
Riyadh ranks high in the Gulf region in the capital market category and continues to rank first in the foreign population. Despite higher-than-expected global inflation, the collapse of the economy with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, political uncertainty, and the increasing effects of climate change, the city of Riyadh scored four points for the vibrancy shown in the business sector and the efficiency of the capital sector.
Jeddah has also strengthened its position in this category. Madinah is also making progress. Makkah and Abaha excelled in the index for their information exchange. Meanwhile, Dammam gained 11 points in the global index on the back of human capital, information exchange, better cultural experience and political engagement.
Lohmeyer said that the current global situation is testing the resilience of the economy and sustaining the momentum will be difficult. He added that countries can stand out by reinvesting, focusing on growth and making prudent decisions from within the socio-economic system at regional and national levels.