Saudi Government Research Articles

Leveraging Social Media and Deep Learning for Sentiment Analysis for Smart Governance: A Case Study of Public Reactions to Educational Reforms in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi government’s educational reforms aim to align the system with market needs and promote economic opportunities. However, a lack of credible data makes assessing public sentiment towards these reforms challenging. This research develops a sentiment analysis application to analyze public emotional reactions to educational reforms in Saudi Arabia using AraBERT, an Arabic language model. We constructed a unique Arabic dataset of 216,858 tweets related to the reforms, with 2000 manually labeled for public sentiment. To establish a robust evaluation framework, we employed random forests, support vector machines, and logistic regression as baseline models alongside AraBERT. We also compared the fine-tuned AraBERT Sentiment Classification model with CAMeLBERT, MARBERT, and LLM (GPT) models. The fine-tuned AraBERT model had an F1 score of 0.89, which was above the baseline models by 5% and demonstrated a 4% improvement compared to other pre-trained transformer models applied to this task. This highlights the advantage of transformer models specifically trained for the target language and domain (Arabic). Arabic-specific sentiment analysis models outperform multilingual models for this task. Overall, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of AraBERT in analyzing Arabic sentiment on social media. This approach has the potential to inform educational reform evaluation in Saudi Arabia and potentially other Arabic-speaking regions.

Change Management Strategies in Saudi Government Institutions: An Analytical Study of National Transformation Efforts to Achieve Vision 2030

Change Management Strategies in Saudi Government Institutions: An Analytical Study of National Transformation Efforts to Achieve Vision 2030

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Saudi Arabia’s Governance

Why does the Saudi government utilize artificial intelligence? The research questions whether the more the Saudi government utilizes artificial intelligence (AI), the more it endures authoritarianism or not. In fact, an analytical research design based on a neo-institutional approach is applied to the case study. The research examines the concept of isomorphism by addressing the motivations for AI utilization in Saudi Arabia, the outcomes of AI on Saudi Arabia’s authoritarian practices, Saudi citizens’ insights into AI applications in Saudi Arabia, the relationship between legitimacy and stability in the presence of AI in Saudi Arabia, and the impact of culture and cognitive bases on Saudi organizational behavior toward AI in Saudi Arabia. The research concludes the following: Saudi Arabia applies artificial intelligence as a democratic state in economic changes and as a computational power to keep the political sphere unchangeable. In other words, the more the Saudi government utilizes artificial intelligence, the more it becomes a digital authoritarian tool.

Impact of ICT diffusion and opportunity entrepreneurship on environmental sustainability in Saudi Arabia

The need to prioritize sustainable development is expanding in light of the world's environmental concerns. To address these concerns, entrepreneurship is essential as a catalyst for inventions, economic expansion, and social change. Entrepreneurship activities have direct and indirect effects in the face of environmental risks and uncertainties. This study addresses gaps in understanding entrepreneurship's non-linear and complementarity effects, particularly opportunity-driven entrepreneurship and information and communication technologies (ICT), on the quality of the environment in Saudi Arabia. The dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) method is used to estimate long-run relationships. Saudi Arabia will be the perfect context for sustainability because the country has prioritized sustainability through its Vision 2030, and the Saudi government has substantially supported entrepreneurship. The main contribution of this paper to the existing literature is evident in its examination of the quadratic relationships between both opportunity-driven entrepreneurship and ICT diffusion, including ICT access, use, and skills, on environmental quality. In addition, the study delves into the ICT diffusion's modulating effects on the nexus of opportunity entrepreneurship with environmental quality, providing insights into how these factors can effectively improve environmental quality. The findings show that opportunity entrepreneurship and ICT diffusion initially deteriorate environmental quality before leading to improvements as their levels mature in the economy. Moreover, interactions between ICT proxies and opportunity entrepreneurship yield mixed effects, with negative net effects on CO2 emissions and ecological footprint countered by positive net effects on the environmental performance index. These findings highlight the dual role of ICT diffusion as a contributor to environmental challenges and a potential solution, depending on the level of its diffusion and interaction with entrepreneurial activities. Therefore, policymakers should create plans that encourage and direct business activity toward more environmentally friendly methods. They should also consider the short- and long-term effects of growing digital technologies on environmental sustainability and how they might revolutionize how entrepreneurship and sustainability goals are aligned.

COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia: an epidemiological analysis of 2020-2021.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic proved challenging for the healthcare systems. This study is an analysis of the epidemiological situation of COVID-19 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and the impact of the control measures on the epidemiological trends of the disease. A retrospective study was conducted on COVID-19 cases confirmed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in KSA from March 2020 to December 2021. The numbers of confirmed, recovered, and death cases was analyzed and classified by age, gender, and nationality. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis for the disease trends and some of the control measures were conducted. All statistical analysis was carried out using the IBM SPSS version 26. There were 549,810 confirmed cases from March 2, 2020, to December 1, 2021. The highest number of cases was during the summer months. Men accounted for 70% of all reported cases. 65% of incidents involved people aged 20-50 years. Saudi nationals represented 63% of the total cases. There was a decline in both confirmed and fatality cases in 2021 compared to 2020 (OR = 2.1, p < 0.001; and OR = 2.53, p < 0.001 respectively). Furthermore, the precautionary measures implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19 had a positive effect in reducing disease incidences (correlation 0.75, p < 0.001). The Saudi government has had exceptional success in controlling COVID-19 by expanding screening tests, launching immunization campaigns, and training physicians.

أثر التجارة الإلكترونية على سلوك المستهلكين في قطاع تجارة التجزئة في المملكة العربية السعودية

E-commerce in Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid growth, driven by technological advancements and government initiatives aligned with Vision 2030. This research aims to understand the impact of e-commerce on consumer behavior in the retail sector by examining factors influencing e-commerce adoption, the challenges consumers face, and how digital transformations affect traditional businesses. The study gathered data from consumer surveys, government reports, and previous studies, using analytical models to understand the relationships between variables and their impact on consumer behavior. Survey results revealed that e-commerce has significantly changed purchasing habits among Saudis, with many preferring online shopping due to convenience and a wide range of options. The key drivers for e-commerce adoption include convenience, time savings, and product variety, while economic factors like competitive pricing play a significant role in attracting consumers. Trust and security in e-commerce platforms are critical, as consumers seek assurance regarding the protection of their financial information and product quality. Consumers face challenges such as product description accuracy, return difficulties, and concerns about data privacy. Digital transformation pressures traditional businesses to adopt digital strategies to remain competitive. Small businesses face difficulties adapting but show potential for innovation through partnerships with major e-commerce platforms. Data shows a remarkable increase in e-commerce revenue in Saudi Arabia from SAR 38.8 billion in 2020 to SAR 204 billion in 2024, with the number of stores rising from 28,676 to 57,000 during the same period. To sustain this growth, companies need to invest in long-term strategies and diversify revenue streams. The Saudi government plays a crucial role in supporting this sector by improving digital infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and supporting startups. By adopting these recommendations, the online shopping experience can be improved, ensuring customer satisfaction and the continued growth of this vital sector.

A Study to Determine the Influence of Higher Education among Female Students in Saudi Arabia

Women now have more options to pursue higher education in Saudi Arabia due to better access to higher education despite a number of restrictions. These options don't, however, fully address women's demands for higher education or provide equitable access for all citizens of the country. The purpose of this study is to review the literature that has been written about women's higher education in Saudi Arabia, with a particular emphasis on teaching methods, pedagogy, history, and barriers. Also the study focusses on understanding the women’s interest to pursue higher education and her ambition. The major findings of the study are the Saudi women irrespective of their cultural barriers they are highly interested to get employed and earn their living. Hence the women aspire to get more education for better job opportunities. The Saudi Government also motivates their women to focus in more career opportunities and also provides more knowledge-based training for women interested in business. The study helps to understand the influence of Saudi women in higher education to avail the job opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

SMEs and e-commerce. Why or why not?

E-commerce plays an important role in many organizations and businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Although the body of scientific knowledge carries significant research in addressing the main drivers and challenges of e-commerce among SMEs, the Saudi market was untouched, especially after the official Saudi government classification of SMEs back in December of 2016. Therefore, this study aims to explore the most common factors and challenges of SMEs when utilizing e-commerce in Saudi Arabia. It focused on Jeddah City as the second-largest city and the main seaport of the country. This research is based on a quantitative survey carried out among 63 firms, due to the difficulty in reaching a larger number of participants who had dedicated time and budget. The examined factors were collected from the literature and classified using the Technology, Organization, and Environment Model (TOE). Out of 63 firms, only six were adopting e-commerce. This led us to focus more on the challenges that hindered the remaining 57 from utilizing e-commerce. The analysis results uncovered the status of e-commerce among a sample of Saudi SMEs and showed that the knowledge and awareness level of e-commerce potential for businesses play a significant factor in reaching this incredibly low number.

THE IMPACT OF PRODUCT INNOVATION ON FEMALE ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUCCESS: A CASE OF SAUDI ARABIA

Recent reforms in Saudi Arabia granted empowerment to women, opening new entrepreneurial avenues for them. This study aims to assess the influence of product innovation on the success of female entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia. Employing a quantitative approach, data was collected through a survey questionnaire. The primary data set included responses from 256 Saudi female entrepreneurs. SmartPLS was utilized for analysis, employing the PLS-SEM statistical technique. The results revealed a positive overall effect of product innovation on female entrepreneurs and their intentions. The study offers practical insights for female entrepreneurs and the Saudi government to address challenges faced by Saudi women. Recommendations include the formulation of policies that provide sustained support for women entrepreneurs. Additionally, the study suggests potential avenues for future research in this domain.

Enabling Industry 4.0 Technologies to Drive Sustainable Housing Delivery across the Housing Supply Value Chain in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and Prospects

The Saudi government has launched the Saudi Vision 2030 that aims to increase the home ownership rate to 70% by 2030 by taking the different sustainability goals into consideration. However, several challenges such as rapid urbanization and the gap between housing supply and demand are facing this goal. This study attributes the housing supply gap to KSA’s reductionist approach to the housing supply value chain (HSVC) and proposes adopting Industry 4.0 technologies. The study explores the challenges and prospects of integrating these technologies for sustainable housing delivery across the HSVC. Through action research, data were gathered via random sampling and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 24, incorporating a principal component analysis (PCA). The findings from the analysis identify key challenges such as data management infrastructure, construction industry regulations, uncertain housing delivery policies, and resistance to change. Despite these challenges, there is a strong potential for adopting Industry 4.0 technologies to achieve sustainable housing delivery. This study offers a blueprint for policymakers and housing industry leaders to develop a comprehensive strategy for adopting 4IR technologies in housing delivery, enhancing collaboration and driving progress towards Saudi Arabia’s sustainable housing goals.

Technoeconomic analysis: the potential and opportunities of transforming Saudi Arabian scrap tires into synthetic fuel via vacuum pyrolysis

Environmental hazards linked with scrap tires have been a great concern for the Saudi government. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a Vision 2030 project with an aim to produce 50% of its energy through renewable energy resources. The tire market in the country reached 22.2 million units in 2022 and is expected to increase up to 24.9 million in 2028 with a growth rate of 2.11%. This study used a vacuum pyrolyzer for transforming scrap tires into tire-derived oil (TDO), along with other products such as synthesis gas (syngas) and carbon black. It provides a feasible way of transforming scrap tires into synthetic fuel via vacuum pyrolysis (a thermochemical approach). Vacuum pyrolysis of scrap tires at temperature 350–400oC yields 45%–55% derived oil, 10%–15% steel wires, 30%–35% carbon black, and 10%–15% non-condensable gases. The heating value of the obtained tire-derived oil is 32–37 MJ/kg, which is somehow less than that of diesel, which has an energy value of 44–46 MJ/kg. Such products are expected to be obtained after the successful adaptation of advanced techniques such as thermochemical approaches and can successfully be used as an alternative to fossil fuels. Based on the scrap tire produced in the country, if Saudi Arabia can process 22.2 million units of tires (trucks and passenger cars) annually through vacuum pyrolysis, it can earn approximately $47.40 million annually (or $2.14 per tire) through tire pyrolysis. Utilization of carbon black (recovered from scrap tire pyrolysis) in manufacturing tires can save approximately 2.5 tons of CO2 production compared to per ton production of new (virgin) carbon black. This study suggested pyrolysis to be a viable recycling and waste tire management technique, and it can be an independent profitable operation in Saudi Arabia and helps in meeting the Saudi Vision 2030.

Transformation of the Saudi Housing Sector through an Enabling Approach to Affordable Housing

Access to affordable housing has a significant impact on the quality of lives of households and the overall well-being of communities. The enabling approach is recognized internationally as a mechanism for housing delivery, shifting the government’s role from that of a direct provider to that of an enabler within housing markets. In line with its Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to transition its role from a direct housing provider to an enabler. This study aimed to assess the extent to which enabling strategies have been implemented within the Saudi Arabian context. This research was conducted based on a desktop study of the key literature, analysis of secondary data, and content analysis of the collected documents to address the research aim. The study found that housing costs, traditional land tenure, and insufficient financing are major housing challenges, intensified by high lending interest, lack of investor diversity in housing types, and lack of long-term funding from financiers. Also, slum developments are limited to providing street access, without addressing the overall conditions and the level of services. In addition, the costs of obtaining permits and implementing building regulations have contributed to housing shortages in the country. On the other hand, real estate developers of different scales undergo a classification and qualification system to increase their capacity for housing supply. To address these challenges, the Saudi government has implemented an enabling approach, serving as a provider for low-income and vulnerable groups through the Developmental Housing Program. The government also encourages local manufacturing of building materials to boost the construction industry. The present study recommends that the government enhance existing instruments to enable access to affordable housing.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect Corporate Cash Holdings Determinants? An Applied Study on Saudi Arabia Firms

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced substantial uncertainty and economic disruptions, prompting numerous firms to increase their cash reserves as a significant advantage to enable effective management of exogenous shocks. Using a sample of 120 non-financial firms listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange between 2012 and 2022, we examine the determinants of cash holdings. By dividing the sample into two sub-periods: pre-Covid and under Covid and applying the panel data approach, the results show a significant difference between the determinants of cash holdings of the two groups of firms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, cash holding has increased with firm size, cash flow, Cost of Capital, and net working capital, while it has decreased with dividend payment, and return on invested capital. The research provides support for the pecking order theory, indicating that Saudi firms have maintained relatively stable cash management policies and remained unaffected throughout the pandemic. This study sheds light on the supportive role of the Saudi government in assisting firms facing liquidity challenges, offering a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Furthermore, it contributes to the existing literature on corporate finance by exploring new factors that drive cash management decisions.

Assessment of the Satisfaction of Patients Treated by Undergraduate Dental Students at a Saudi Government University: A Cross Sectional Study [Letter

Assessment of the Satisfaction of Patients Treated by Undergraduate Dental Students at a Saudi Government University: A Cross Sectional Study [Letter

Macroeconomic, energy, and emission effects of solar PV deployment at utility and distributed scales in Saudi Arabia

For the first time, this paper assesses the macroeconomic, energy, and emission impacts of solar photovoltaic (PV) deployment in Saudi Arabia by linking an energy-and-environment-sector augmented macroeconometric model with a power model and a distributed generation model while distinguishing between utility scale and distributed-generation scale of the PV deployment. We analyze three policy scenarios of deploying 5.5 TWh PV for the period 2021–2030: (S1) fully government-funded utility-scale PV deployment, (S2) half-government-funded utility-scale PV deployment, and (S3) household-funded distributed generation scale PV deployment with little government support. We find that: S1 is best suited if the objective is fiscal expansion, 2 is best suited to improve non-oil fiscal positions, increase non-oil value added and employment, and increase household consumption, and S3 is best suited to reduce energy consumption and associated emissions and enhance international trade. We show that government and foreign investment play an important role, and it would be desirable for the Saudi government to partner in financing renewable energy projects, saving budgetary resources to invest in other projects to support economic growth.

A Theoretical Framework to Promote LCA in the Construction Industry of Saudi Arabia

The building and construction sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), experiencing rapid growth, is in the early stages of embracing sustainability measures. In the years ahead, the booming building sector in business-as-usual scenarios may pose serious energy and environmental challenges for the Kingdom. This situation will require the Saudi building sector to adopt robust sustainability measures. Embedding life cycle assessment (LCA) as a standard practice can be a useful strategy for improving the energy and environmental footprint of buildings. This paper proposes a theoretical framework within which to promote LCA in the Saudi Arabian construction industry. This framework comprises three pillars: policy, social, and technical. The framework covers the role of the Saudi building sector’s stakeholders such as policy makers, building industry professionals, representatives of relevant governmental bodies, and academics. Adaptation of this LCA framework can help substantially improve the energy and environmental performance of buildings. The proposed LCA framework is aligned with the international as well as the Saudi government’s drive for sustainability in the building sector.

State of the Art of Renewable Sources Potentialities in the Middle East: A Case Study in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is experiencing a surge in electricity demand, with power generation increasing 4 times in 25 years from 1990 to 2014. Despite the abundant primary renewable energy sources, the country has overlooked them in the past in national energy policies. However, in recent years, renewable energy has become a part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s energy conservation policy due to climate changes, technological progress, economies of scale, and increased competitiveness in supply chains. The Saudi government has created the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE) to develop national strategies for effectively utilizing renewable and nuclear energy. This paper reviews the current state of the art of the renewable energy technologies available on the market and evaluates the installation of renewable energy plants near Saudi Arabia’s East Coast for a new town, focusing on technical rather than economic aspects. The paper provides a wide review of the possible technical solutions to exploit the producibility of different renewable sources, considering the challenging climate conditions typical of desert areas. The analysis of a real case study shows a high availability of wind and solar irradiance that allow a net energy production of 354 and 129 GWh, respectively. In addition, the comparison between a typical ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) system and an emerging floating PV reveals that for the same installed power, occupied area, and environmental conditions, the latter has a 4% greater performance ratio due to the cooling effect of water.

Managing Legislative Drafting Projects by Applying Project Management Techniques

Abstract One of the most utilized methodologies in achieving goals out of projects is through project management methodology offered by Project Management Institute. It has shown tremendous positive outcomes and high control in planning, executing, and closing of projects, which made it a mandatory in operating many projects and monitoring large teams within a specific period. In the legal sphere, project management has been introduced to support law firms and in-house legal department in organizations, however, the legislative field in legislative bodies of many states in the world has not yet introduced this mean of management in their projects. The legislative drafting project goes through many stages and interacts with several stakeholders, which requires a high sophisticated management and control of deliverables on a timely manner within allocated budget. This paper will explore how project management could apply to the process of managing the legislative drafting work, starting from the planning stage until the appraisal of the legislative draft for Royal approval. It has been applied as per the Saudi government procedure for drafting legislative proposals in a way that introduces this technique of management in detailed stages to enhance the efficiency of such intellectual projects. Although it has been applied to the Saudi governmental structure, it could be utilized to fit different states that want to better manage legislative drafting projects. Aiming to show the usefulness of project management methodologies in legislative drafting projects by introducing project management (PM) way of administration to the field of legislative drafting.

The Award Decision in the Saudi Competition and Government Procurement Law, a Comparative Study

The administrative contract is considered a means by which the administrative body uses it to manage the affairs of public facilities and cover what it needs for that purpose. One of the most important stages it goes through is the stage of opening and examining bids. The Saudi Government Competition and Procurement Law have established dedicated committees for those who open bids and examine bids for that purpose, and the role of the bid examination committee is to recommend awarding the contract to the bidder who wins the competition, and then the award decision is issued by the person with the authority. Here comes the problem regarding the award decision. Is it considered an acceptance on the part of management that matches the offer of the bidder, or is it merely an announcement and acknowledgment of the bidder’s entitlement to the contract and remains the contract is not concluded until it is written and signed by all parties. Here, this study came to address this aspect and clarify what is the position of the legal text on this, and what is the position of the Saudi administrative judiciary on it. It was organized into an introduction, a preface, four sections, and a conclusion that included the most important results, including The Saudi administrative judiciary considers the awarding decision to be an acceptance by the administration and completion of the contract, and that the awarding decision can be appealed by cancellation like the rest of the administration’s decisions. This study recommended that the text of the Competitions and Procurement Law be amended and the ambiguity and lack of clarity in this part be removed.

Energy price reform to mitigate transportation carbon emissions in oil-rich economies

This study examines the impact of domestic fuel prices, population, and economic activity on transport CO2 emissions, employing Saudi Arabia as a case study. The research uncovers statistically significant long-term associations between these variables. Despite transport CO2 emissions demonstrating slight responsiveness to fuel price alterations, with estimated elasticity values between – 0.1 and – 0.15, the study affirms the relevance and timeliness of the Saudi government's strategy to curtail fuel incentives. Projections for a 2030 scenario, encompassing heightened economic activity aspirations and further escalations in domestic fuel prices to mirror true market costs, revealed a 1.8 percent annual reduction in transport CO2 emissions from 2021 to 2030 compared to a scenario with unchanging fuel prices. The insights from this study bear significance not only for Saudi Arabia but also for other oil-rich nations striving to pave the way toward a sustainable transportation future.