King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) saw the successful conclusion of its third annual Cityquest forum. The closing ceremony in KAEC was attended by Prince Mishal Bin Majed, governor of Jeddah, on behalf of Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, advisor to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Emir of Makkah Region.
Prince Mishal paid tribute to the forum’s sponsors and participating cities, at a global event that demonstrated the Economic City’s latest developments, most recent achievements and future plans, and brought together over 24 new city presidents, 200 senior government officials and executives from 35 countries.
Fahd Al-Rasheed, managing director and CEO of KAEC, extended his gratitude for Prince Khaled Al Faisal’s support for the forum’s programs, and thanked Prince Mishal for attending the closing ceremony. “Your presence demonstrates your continued support for King Abdullah Economic City, and for its visionary projects aimed at transforming the Kingdom and its economy. KAEC’s many constituent projects have created a fertile environment that attracts regional and international capital,” he said.
The forum hosted key discussions on core topics for creating value in New Cities. Participants debated ideas on the creation of a ‘Vibrant Community’, recognizing the role each individual holds in the formation of a solid society, and the potential for wider job creation through the honing of an individual’s entrepreneurial skills.
Speakers emphasized the role of small enterprises in reinforcing and promoting economic growth rates in urban areas, making them a necessity for the success of new cities. Attendees also discussed their ideas and visions for attracting sustainable capital to new cities to maintain growth.
Discussions focused on the importance of attracting high level talent to cities, one of the biggest challenges facing new city planners. The creation of a vibrant and diverse society was said to rest on the provision of a full life, across home, work and leisure. — SG
