Saudi Arabia Marks 96th National Day with Economic Growth and Regional Integration

Riyadh: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates its 96th National Day on 23 September, under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The nation continues to enhance its influence both regionally and globally through economic diversification and a growing investment base. According to Oman News Agency, the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Oman is built on a strong foundation laid by both countries' leaders-His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and King Salman. This partnership spans political, economic, commercial, investment, and cultural fields, with trade between the two nations reaching substantial figures in recent years. Ibrahim bin Saad bin Bishan, the Saudi Ambassador to Oman, highlighted the significance of this year's National Day, celebrated under the theme "Our Pride Lies in Our Nature," embodying values intrinsic to the Saudi people. He reflected on the nation's journey since its founding by King Abdulaziz and noted the significant transformat ions achieved under current leadership in sectors like economic development, investment, tourism, and sustainable energy. The Ambassador emphasized the deepening ties between Saudi Arabia and Oman, driven by shared developmental visions-Saudi Vision 2030 and Oman 2040. Recent years have seen a shift from historical ties to practical partnerships, with trade exchange figures illustrating this growth. The opening of the Al Rub' Al Khali border crossing has further boosted trade and movement between the two countries. He also noted Oman's rise as a key tourist destination for Saudis, driven by its unique cultural and natural appeal. Visits like Sultan Haitham's private trip to Saudi Arabia highlight the commitment of both nations to expanding cooperation and fostering regional stability. The participation of Oman in Expo Riyadh 2030 underscores the importance of international collaboration in knowledge and economic exchange. Additionally, events such as the Gulf Cup tournament in Jeddah highlight the shared c ultural and economic aspirations of the region. A report by the GCC Statistics Centre, in collaboration with the Saudi General Authority for Statistics, illustrates the robust growth of the Saudi economy, with a notable contribution from non-oil sectors. The Kingdom's hosting of significant international events further cements its role in the global economy. Saudi Arabia's continued investment in areas like artificial intelligence and renewable energy reflects its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The Kingdom remains a pivotal energy player while advancing in education and digital transformation, reinforcing its position as a leader in the Gulf region.