Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: Saudi Arabia’s major investments in artificial intelligence and its infrastructure will help its cities rise quickly in global rankings over the next decade, according to Rodolphe Lomer, Senior Partner at the Global Business Policy Council, President of the National Institute for Transformation, and member of Kearney’s foresight network.

Lomer told Asharq Business that expanding AI adoption will strengthen the Kingdom’s global connectivity, accelerate urban growth, and raise productivity, making Saudi cities more attractive internationally.

Kearney’s “Global Cities 2025” report shows strong progress in Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam, driven by sustained investment in infrastructure, innovation, and quality of life. The Global Cities Index evaluates 158 cities across business activity, human capital, information exchange, cultural experience, and political engagement.

Riyadh climbed eight places to rank 56th worldwide, while Jeddah improved to 83rd. Makkah, Madinah, and Dammam also posted strong gains.

Lomer said these results reflect the impact of Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure and investment efforts, and he expects the upward trend to continue.