I had an upbringing similar to many around the world. Both my parents were teachers so the focus on work, progress and fulfilling my potential were always present. Like many other children all over the world we used to chat about where we would like to be from if we could choose our nationality. We would exchange answers from around the world including American, Australian, Japanese or French.
That for me and many other Saudis changed with Vision 2030. The Vision 2030 promises change that we hunger after and that is what I and millions of others are witnessing on the ground. The speed of the transition and empowerment to date has been staggering. We are seeing more rights, more freedoms and more opportunity than ever before, together with a more inclusive and enjoyable lifestyle.
Today, when I ask my younger cousins and their friends at school where they would like to be from, the vast majority shout “Saudi Arabia”.
The reasons behind this they tell me are simple. “We are a young country. There is a future being built for us that is better, more enjoyable and with more opportunities than ever before”.
As the road towards progress become more visible, the excitement and anticipation grows. As a young man, I see people working harder and with more passion than ever before. Those who had chosen a future outside the Kingdom are coming home, inspired to support the transition.
First and foremost amongst those are the young women who are flocking to work in ever increasing numbers, their sense of liberation and pride, combined with education and drive is an exciting prospect for the future prosperity of the Kingdom. For me a country is not only defined by its leadership but the outlook and attitude of its people.
I worry about the pace and nature of the reforms slowing. If we returned to our previous insular ways the impact would not only be felt heavily within the Kingdom but around the world.
Therefore, I urge people from around the world to come and visit our country and see for themselves the warm, open, ambitious and welcoming country we are becoming
