From Reform to Delivery: Executing Change at Scale – Saudi Vision 2030 at Davos 2026

As the global economy faces unprecedented technological shifts and geopolitical uncertainty, the Saudi House at Davos 2026 hosted a landmark session titled “From Reform to Delivery: Executing Change at Scale.” The discussion brought together high-level Saudi ministers, international financial leaders, and private sector pioneers to explore how Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has matured from an ambitious blueprint into a durable, delivery-focused reality.

The Human Engine of Transformation

HRH Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud emphasized that the true driver of a competitive modern economy is its people. She highlighted a significant cultural shift: Saudi youth, who once sought careers in global hubs like New York or London, are now choosing to “build at home”. This surge in human capital is the “biggest symbol of success” for Vision 2030, proving that social and economic reforms have created a “user-friendly” environment for talent to thrive.

A Strategy of Agility and Persistence

HE Faisal F. Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning, detailed the institutional capabilities required to sustain long-term transformation. He noted that while the early years focused on a “catch-up” phase, the current stage demands precision and “delivery at the right cost” By maintaining a stubborn focus on long-term goals while remaining agile enough to course-correct, the Kingdom has decoupled its growth from oil, with non-oil activities now making up over 55% of the GDP .

Fiscal Discipline and Market Credibility

HE Mohammed A. Aljadaan, Minister of Finance, addressed the necessity of fiscal resilience. He argued that reforms often stall not because of wrong visions, but due to a lack of sustainability. To prevent this, Saudi Arabia has shifted reform from “policy” to “default behavior” within institutions. With 93% of KPIs either achieved or on track, the Kingdom has built immense credibility with international markets, reflected in the growth of foreign reserves despite global shocks.

The Global View: A Model for the World

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva praised the “persistency of reforms” in the Kingdom. She identified three key strengths:

1. Private Sector Flourishing: The government’s reduced direct role has allowed agile private enterprises to lead.
2. Scale and Scope: From space exploration to fashion, “no stone is left unturned”.
3. Regional Leadership: Saudi Arabia is increasingly acting as a “carrier of reforms,” sharing its experience with other nations.

De-risking and Global Connectivity

HE Khalid A. Alfalih, Minister of Investment, highlighted that Saudi Arabia is no longer just a capital destination but a “global economic connector”. He pointed to the 5x increase in FDI since the launch of the Vision and the Kingdom’s leadership in new energies, such as green hydrogen. By “owning the risk” and co-investing with the private sector, Saudi Arabia has created a transparent, predictable environment for global capital.

The Private Sector’s Evolution

Lubna Olayan, Chair of the Corporate Board of Olayan Group, reflected on the “tremendous change” witnessed over the last two decades. She noted that the inclusion of women and the growth of SMEs have fundamentally changed the business landscape. The ease of doing business and the government’s willingness to listen to private sector feedback have turned “non-believers into extreme believers”.

Conclusion: The Road Beyond 2030

The session concluded with a powerful message: Vision 2030 is not a finish line but a foundation for a fortified future. By empowering people, maintaining fiscal discipline, and fostering global partnerships, Saudi Arabia is proving that successful transformation requires a blend of ambitious vision and relentless execution.