Geopolitical Briefing: Saudi Arabia
19 May 2025
- Saudi Arabia launched “Humain,” a state-backed AI firm, securing major partnerships with Nvidia and AMD to accelerate its digital infrastructure.
- President Trump’s Gulf tour, including a meeting with Syria’s new leader in Riyadh, signals a shift in U.S. regional policy, sidelining Israel and elevating Saudi influence.
- Saudi aviation lessor AviLease placed an order for up to 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets, reinforcing U.S.-Saudi economic ties amid broader investment agreements.
- Human rights groups criticized FIFA and Saudi Arabia over labor conditions linked to the 2034 World Cup, raising concerns about worker safety and transparency.
- Saudi Arabia is set to host major international events, including the Islamic Solidarity Games and the Esports World Cup, enhancing its global cultural and sports profile.(Wikipedia, Reuters, Reuters, The Guardian)
On 12 May 2025, Saudi Arabia unveiled “Humain,” a state-backed artificial intelligence company under the Public Investment Fund, aiming to position the kingdom as a global AI leader. The launch coincided with President Trump’s visit and featured significant partnerships, including Nvidia’s agreement to supply 18,000 advanced AI chips and AMD’s $10 billion investment in joint AI infrastructure projects. These collaborations underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to diversifying its economy and reducing reliance on oil revenues through technological innovation. (Wikipedia)
President Donald Trump’s recent Middle East tour marked a notable shift in U.S. regional policy. His meeting in Riyadh with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who rose to power after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, indicates a willingness to engage with emerging regional powers. This approach, coupled with a $142 billion arms deal and a $600 billion investment commitment from Saudi Arabia, suggests a realignment that elevates Saudi influence while sidelining traditional U.S. allies like Israel. (The Guardian, Reuters)
AviLease, a Saudi aviation leasing company owned by the Public Investment Fund, announced an order for up to 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets, including 20 firm purchases and options for 10 more. This deal, coinciding with President Trump’s visit, reinforces the deepening economic ties between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia and reflects the kingdom’s efforts to expand its aviation sector as part of broader economic diversification plans. (Reuters)
Human rights organizations have raised concerns about labor conditions in Saudi Arabia related to preparations for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Reports highlight unsafe working environments and inadequate compensation for migrant workers involved in construction projects. Critics argue that FIFA failed to enforce its human rights policies when awarding the tournament to Saudi Arabia, calling for greater transparency and accountability. (The Guardian, The Times of India)
Saudi Arabia is set to host significant international events, including the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games in November and the Esports World Cup from July to August. These events aim to enhance the kingdom’s global cultural and sports profile, attract tourism, and showcase its commitment to diversifying its economy beyond oil. (Wikipedia)
