The quick answer is - Vision 2030. It all began in 2016 and since Vision 2030 has been recognized as a strategic reform-work which defines the future of Saudi Arabia. It consists of quite a lot of programmes which then divide into numerous initiatives. The overall aim is to inter-connect most diverse subjects and to foster synergies, for example, to link culture with sport, urban design, public housing and an overall aspiration for a good quality of life. A most important component in this strategy has been the creation of the Ministry of Culture. It consists of eleven commissions of which the Architecture and Design Commission – which I lead as CEO – is an important component. Our task is to define in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia anything that concerns architecture, urban design and design in general. Moreover, we also regulate, modernise and constantly try to improve the content and our understanding of these three artistic fields..

There are six fundamental sectors that we support and of which we define its qualities:
1. Development of sectors. How can we support and promote architecture and design at their best?
2. Which influence have architecture and design on the GDP?
3. How do we find and support talent, i.e. from early childhood up to University and, if you like, until retirement?
4. Permanent innovation in a continuously developing environment.
5. Worldwide attention and interest in Saudi architecture and design.
6. Establishing sustainability standards.

We offer architects from all over the world incredible chances. In particular since 2016 our country has created some of the biggest construction challenges worldwide you can only imagine. There is an abundance of chances. My advice is, forget any stereotypes and prejudices regarding Saudi Arabia. Come and visit our country, get to know its history and look for opportunities of cooperating with Saudi companies.

Size alone is by far not the only significant factor, but we especially demand and expect a very high degree of innovation, for example, with regard to construction materials. I would say, that we are sufficiently open-minded in all sectors and fields of interest to learn more and to go further. You may apply this to sustainable design, hydroponic plants or the greening of Riyadh, all of which are gigantic undertakings. In order to comprehend all of this one has to engage oneself deeply and thoroughly into the subject matter of each project. Superficial and quick judgements miss the point completely.