Riyadh Economic Forum Explores Knowledge Localisation

The Riyadh Economic Forum is examining a report titled “Strategies for Transferring and Localising Knowledge and Expertise and Their Impact on Organisational Performance” during its 12th edition, which takes place from October 12 to 14. The Forum’s emphasis on growing the human resources industry is in line with this strategy.

The study emphasises the growing significance of knowledge localisation in response to rapid global economic changes, framing it as an essential strategy rather than just a developmental choice.

Likewise, this perspective aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enhance human capital and establish a knowledge-based economy to create a diversified, sustainable, and globally competitive economic landscape.

Roadmap Outlined for Knowledge Localisation and AI

The study explores a robust methodology that integrates quantitative and qualitative analysis, benchmarked against global best practices. Its goal is to evaluate the maturity of institutional practices, identify structural and organisational gaps limiting knowledge utilisation, and provide a thorough diagnosis of the current situation, relating the findings to the national context and economic development needs.

Moreover, the study contributes to public policy by providing evidence-based, actionable recommendations and a practical roadmap aimed at improving knowledge transfer efficiency, empowering national talent, and fostering inter-agency integration. These deliverables support decision-makers in adopting more effective policies, anchored in impact measurement and results-oriented strategies.

The study highlights key transformative opportunities linked to knowledge localisation in the digital age. It stresses the significant roles of the digital economy and artificial intelligence, along with universities and scientific research centres, as strategic partners. Together, they aim to foster an integrated, sustainable national knowledge ecosystem that can generate, localise, and convert knowledge into tangible economic value.

Additionally, it seeks to create an analytical framework to evaluate knowledge transfer and localisation in the Kingdom, assess the ecosystem’s effectiveness in converting educational and training investments into sustainable outputs that foster growth, and analyse aspects of the knowledge economy in relation to national development.

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REF Unveils National Knowledge Strategy

The study focuses on analysing the efficiency of key knowledge-transfer channels—foreign direct investment, international partnerships, and training programmes—in relation to building sustainable local capacity. It also evaluates the maturity of the institutional and regulatory framework concerning integration, governance, and impact measurement effectiveness, while exploring the connection between digital transformation and human capital to assess the productivity gap.

Besides, the study redefines knowledge as a strategic asset vital for economic competitiveness and growth disparities among nations. It underlines the efficient generation, absorption, and utilisation of knowledge within production systems. Key points include the need for investment in education, training, and digital transformation, alongside addressing the structural challenges of converting knowledge into sustainable productive value.

According to the study, the legislative and regulatory framework plays a crucial role in fostering the localisation of knowledge and translating it into economic value. This is accomplished by clearly defining institutional roles, offering incentives, and safeguarding innovation through legislation concerning intellectual property.

In closing, the Riyadh Economic Forum’s outcomes are designed to assist decision-makers by offering a clear roadmap for improving knowledge transfer efficiency and increasing economic returns. It aims to transition from fragmented initiatives to a comprehensive, governance-based national model that empowers the private sector and directs investments towards developing national capabilities. This approach seeks to enhance value-added activities and bolster the competitiveness of the Saudi economy.

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