Cities of Possibility: Quality of Life Program Center Showcases Landmark Advances in Saudi Urban Living

sanaa hasanDecember 21, 2025

10 2 minutes read

The Quality of Life Program Center has released its latest publication, Cities of Possibility: The Evolution of Quality of Life in Saudi Arabia, presenting a comprehensive look at the Kingdom’s rapid progress in building dynamic, people-centered cities aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Drawing on extensive surveys of citizens, residents, and visitors, the report reflects how urban transformation is being experienced on the ground.

Focusing on five key cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, Al-Khobar, Madinah, and Abha—the study introduces a new assessment framework based on four interconnected pillars: Prosperity and Opportunity; Personal and Social Growth; Lifestyle and Recreation; and Sustainable and Safe Foundations. Together, these dimensions offer a holistic view of urban well-being and long-term success.

The report delivers strong, data-backed evidence of national advancement, with several Vision 2030 benchmarks already surpassed. Unemployment has dropped significantly, from 12.3% in 2016 to 6.8% in the first quarter of 2025. Women’s workforce participation reached a record 36.4% during the same period, exceeding the original Vision 2030 target of 30%.

Quality of Life Program

Economic momentum is accompanied by growing international recognition. A 67% year-on-year rise in investment licenses contributed to Saudi Arabia ranking 13th globally in the 2025 Kearney FDI Confidence Index. Moreover, social and digital indicators also show marked improvement, with life expectancy increasing from 74 to 79 years, and the Kingdom ranking second among G20 countries in the ITU’s 2024 ICT Regulatory Tracker Index.

Supported by a trillion-dollar investment in tourism and entertainment, access to cultural, sporting, and leisure activities has expanded dramatically. Major global events—including the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, the Esports World Cup, and the Dakar Rally—have strengthened Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading international destination, paving the way for landmark events such as Expo 2030 Riyadh and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Commenting on the findings, Quality of Life Program Center CEO Khalid AlBaker emphasized that enhancing quality of life is a national priority and a cornerstone of social cohesion, global talent attraction, and sustainable economic growth. Finally, he attributed the achievements to the leadership’s unwavering focus on putting people at the center of development.

The full report is available at:
https://qoldrive.filevalt.com/ui/core/index.html?mode=single&path=/SHARED/%21fMF3tyhz4MuEy2BWru1Ce0juP/QpVowbaSqod8SA1V#/.

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