In a strategic move aimed at strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a leading innovation hub in the region, His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah, inaugurated today the “Jeddah Valley Innovation Complex” and the “Jeddah Valley Innovation and Business Zone.” This ambitious project represents the knowledge-based investment arm of King Abdulaziz University. The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including His Excellency Dr. Ahmed bin Hamed Naqadi, Member of the University’s Board of Trustees; Dr. Tarif bin Yousef Al-Aama, President of the University; and Dr. Sattam Linjawi, CEO of Jeddah Valley Company.
An ambitious national context: A new beacon in Vision 2030
The launch of this project comes within the framework of the comprehensive national transformation led by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which places economic diversification and the development of non-oil sectors at the heart of its objectives. While Saudi universities, foremost among them the prestigious King Abdulaziz University, have long been educational and research institutions, their role is evolving to become key drivers of the knowledge economy. The establishment of “Jeddah Valley” embodies this new role, serving as a vital bridge connecting the outputs of advanced academic research with the demands of the market and the private sector, transforming innovative ideas into globally competitive products and companies.
An integrated system to support innovation and entrepreneurship
The Jeddah Valley Innovation and Business District is designed as an integrated environment to nurture creative minds and ambitious companies. Spanning a total area of 81,791 square meters, the district comprises seven modern buildings with a total built-up area of 40,000 square meters, supported by 700 parking spaces. Its strategic location on Prince Majid Road, near King Abdulaziz International Airport and key centers in Jeddah, enhances its accessibility and appeal. The district aims to attract major companies to establish regional headquarters and leverage the university's research infrastructure, while the Jeddah Valley Innovation Complex, located at the heart of the district, focuses on supporting early-stage startups and providing specialized incubation and acceleration programs.
Expected economic and social impact
The project is expected to have a profound impact at both the local and regional levels. Locally, it will contribute to creating quality job opportunities for Saudi youth, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship in Jeddah, and attracting new investments. Nationally, the project supports efforts to localize technology and increase the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to the GDP. It also enhances the Kingdom's position as an attractive destination for talent and global companies seeking an innovative and dynamic work environment in the Middle East.
Strategic partnerships to enhance the business environment
The opening ceremony witnessed the announcement of several important agreements between Jeddah Valley and both the Saudi Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Saudi Society of General Surgery. These partnerships reflect the project's commitment to fostering integration across vital sectors and providing a platform for fruitful collaboration that accelerates innovation. At the conclusion of the ceremony, His Royal Highness the Governor of Jeddah honored the sponsors who contributed to supporting this knowledge hub. Dr. Sattam Linjawi, CEO of the company, affirmed that the zone represents an integrated platform that provides added value by facilitating access to university talent and advanced research centers, thus serving the Kingdom's sustainable development goals.
