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In December 2024, a delegation from Montenegro embarked on a transformative study visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The purpose? To explore KSA’s thriving innovation ecosystem, foster connections with key IT and entrepreneurial stakeholders, and draw inspiration for future initiatives.
From Riyadh’s historic landmarks to its bustling hubs of technological advancement, the Kingdom presented a unique juxtaposition of rich heritage and cutting-edge innovation. The visit spanned December 6th to 12th, offering a comprehensive look into Saudi Arabia’s economic and entrepreneurial dynamism.
The itinerary was packed with high-impact engagements. On the second day, the delegation held a pivotal meeting with the top management team of MEDCO, gaining insights into how KSA nurtures business and innovation. A highlight of the trip was the visit to the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT). The meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) was a pivotal moment of the study visit, offering deep insights into the Kingdom’s dynamic digital and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Held on December 8th, 2024, the session brought together a distinguished panel of representatives, including Eng. Mohammed Alrobayan, Deputy Minister of Technology, Eng. Mohammed AlAriefy, Assistant Deputy Minister of Technology & Digital Entrepreneurial Enterprises Enablement, and Eng. Ibrahim Neyaz, CEO of the National Technology Development Program (NTDP). Joining them were key figures such as Abdulaziz AlHammadi, CEO of The Garage, Mohammed AlShabanah, General Manager of ICT Investment Development, Afnan Ababtain, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Gadah Almermesh, Digital Content Director.
The session provided invaluable perspectives for Montenegro’s delegation, highlighting potential avenues for collaboration and inspiring strategies to strengthen its own digital ecosystem. With Saudi Arabia’s innovation-driven approach as a model, this meeting underscored the transformative impact of aligning technology with economic development.
Equally significant was the meeting with the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) on December 11th, where the delegation delved into Saudi Arabia’s approach to attracting global investments in the ICT and innovation sectors. Representatives from MISA presented an overview of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship sector and detailed the Regional Headquarters (RHQ) Program, designed to position Saudi Arabia as a central hub for international business operations. They also elaborated on the “Investor Journey,” a structured process that simplifies investment into the Kingdom. These sessions offered valuable insights into how Saudi Arabia leverages technology and policy to create a business-friendly environment, paving the way for potential partnerships and knowledge transfer that could inspire Montenegro’s own efforts in fostering innovation and economic growth.
One of the most enriching experiences was the all-day event at The Garage, Saudi Arabia’s innovation hub. Here, 19 startups engaged in mentorship sessions with eight leading companies. This gathering underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering collaboration and facilitating the exchange of ideas in entrepreneurship and innovation.
Visits to Boulevard World and Diriyah offered glimpses into the Kingdom’s efforts to intertwine culture and tourism with the booming tech sector. A meeting with the Ministry of Tourism further elaborated on the integration of IT with Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism initiatives.
Saudi Arabia’s innovation ecosystem is a testament to its ambitious Vision 2030, which emphasizes diversification, technology, and entrepreneurship. The delegation left inspired by the Kingdom’s strategies to foster innovation, its robust support for startups, and its integration of tradition with forward-thinking initiatives.
This study visit not only strengthened ties between Montenegro and Saudi Arabia but also provided valuable lessons for developing robust innovation ecosystems back home. As Montenegro continues to build its entrepreneurial capacity, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia serves as a compelling example of what is possible when vision meets execution.
Stay tuned as these insights fuel new projects and collaborations in Montenegro’s tech and innovation landscape!
