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Saudi CEOs Bet Big On AI, Sustainability, And Industry Expansion

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 25, 2025

Saudi Arabia’s business leaders are pushing the boundaries of innovation, making bold moves in AI adoption, sustainability, and industry diversification. According to PwC’s 28th Annual CEO Survey: Saudi Findings, 81% of CEOs in the Kingdom integrated Generative AI (GenAI) into their organizations last year, outpacing global and regional peers. Meanwhile, 72% have already invested in climate-friendly initiatives, reinforcing a long-term commitment to sustainable growth.

AI Confidence Soars

As Saudi Arabia cements its status as the region’s top investment destination, AI adoption is accelerating at an unprecedented pace. A striking 57% of Saudi CEOs express confidence in embedding AI into core business processes, surpassing global averages. Furthermore, 71% anticipate AI-driven profitability gains within the next 12 months.

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“Saudi Arabia’s business leaders are not just adapting to change; they are defining the future of digital transformation,” said Riyadh AlNajjar, PwC Middle East chairman of the board and KSA country senior partner. “Their investments in AI, workforce development, and emerging industries are shaping a resilient and future-ready economy.”

Breaking Industry Barriers

Nearly half of Saudi CEOs have ventured into new industries over the past five years, embracing sectors beyond their traditional domains. Looking ahead, 69% plan to make acquisitions within the next three years, with 75% of deal value expected to come from industries outside their primary areas of expertise. This expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to establish new economic pillars through giga-projects, AI-powered smart cities, and high-tech manufacturing.

“The Kingdom is rapidly evolving into a global hub for innovation,” said Faisal Alsarraj, PwC Middle East deputy country leader for Saudi Arabia. “With AI, sustainability, and diversification at the forefront, Saudi businesses are enhancing their competitive edge on the world stage.”

Cybersecurity Takes Center Stage

Despite their optimism, Saudi CEOs recognize the risks accompanying digital transformation. Cybersecurity has emerged as a top concern, with 49% of CEOs acknowledging significant exposure to cyber threats. In response, organizations are ramping up investments in AI-driven security measures and digital resilience to safeguard operations.

As Saudi Arabia enters the final five-year stretch to achieve Vision 2030, its CEOs are doubling down on transformation. Their strategic investments in AI, workforce upskilling, and sustainability are not only reshaping the business landscape but also solidifying the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in economic innovation.

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Call for Reform: Cyprus Faces New Challenges with Emerging Tobacco Products

by News Editor

May 31, 2025

In the face of a burgeoning variety of tobacco products, existing smoking laws in Cyprus are struggling to keep pace, as highlighted by Christos Minas, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (AAEK). On World No-Tobacco Day, there was a push for legislative reforms to comprehensively cover all tobacco forms, including non-nicotine alternatives.

Addressing Rising Trends with Effective Policies

Minas emphasized the surge in popularity of e-cigarettes and flavored products, particularly among the youth. The proposed legal updates aim to enhance enforcement efficiency against these emerging trends.

In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, the AAEK has established the first set of national guidelines for smoking cessation in Cyprus, crafting prevention and treatment strategies based on robust scientific evidence.

Educating Youth and Public Awareness Initiatives

Efforts are underway to raise awareness, with informative materials distributed to secondary schools across Cyprus. A public event in Nicosia highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment, providing carbon monoxide testing and expert advice on new tobacco products.

Recent data from the Cyprus general population survey 2023 indicates that 38% of smokers have used e-cigarettes recently, and the smoking initiation age remains at 18.

A Glimpse into Youth Smoking Patterns

According to the latest European school survey, 14% of Cypriot students aged 15-16 reported smoking traditional cigarettes last month. Although this rate is declining, Cyprus still ranks high in Europe for e-cigarette and hookah use among students.

The concern is global, with WHO reports showing over 37 million children aged 13-15 engage in tobacco use, driven by aggressive marketing in loosely regulated environments.

The urgency for reform is clear: before these trends solidify, proactive measures are necessary to protect future generations from potentially hazardous habits.