The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended Saudi Arabia's economic transformation, citing strong domestic demand, significant non-oil growth, record-low unemployment, and controlled inflation.

However, challenges remain, including the need for substantial short-term investments in technology and overcoming resistance to change among stakeholders.

The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is leading the charge for AI adoption in government services, particularly in healthcare, with a national strategy supported by a $50 billion investment in digital health.

The 2025 budget will also focus on continued investments in key sectors like healthcare, tourism, and logistics, leveraging technology such as artificial intelligence to drive transformation.

Tourism initiatives are being enhanced through innovative projects, including the world's first metaverse VR tours, which aim to showcase Saudi culture on a global stage.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has approved a 2025 budget that emphasizes waste reduction and optimizing public funds to foster sustainable growth and enhance public services.

He highlighted the critical role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the National Development Fund (NDF) in bolstering economic stability and development through large-scale infrastructure projects.

The Kingdom's strategy aims to reduce reliance on oil by promoting non-oil industries, which accounted for 52% of GDP in 2024 and is projected to grow by 4.6% in 2025.

Key growth sectors such as trade, hospitality, transport, communications, and finance are experiencing robust expansion, indicating a diverse economic landscape.

To successfully implement these strategies, talent and technological expertise are essential, particularly in driving growth within the managed services sector to improve operational efficiency.

The Expenditure Efficiency and Projects Authority (EXPRO) was established to improve spending efficiency since the launch of Vision 2030, achieving notable financial gains.

Saudi Arabia's commitment to spending efficiency is a cornerstone of its economic diversification plan under Vision 2030, as emphasized by Riyadh AlNajjar, Chairman of PwC in the Middle East.