SEC strengthens infrastructure readiness for Aramco Stadium ahead of World Cup

(SPA)
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Updated 02 January 2026
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SEC strengthens infrastructure readiness for Aramco Stadium ahead of World Cup

  • Project contributes to enhancing stability, efficiency of site’s electrical supply

RIYADH: Saudi Electricity Company has announced the completion of a power transmission station for Aramco Stadium in Alkhobar, the Saudi Press Agency has reported.

The step provides a pivotal role in enabling energy infrastructure for major national projects and supporting the readiness of vital facilities to host international events.

The project was implemented by the National Grid Company, the operational arm of Saudi Arabia’s electricity transmission system, under the supervision of the Saudi Electricity Project Development Company and within an integrated framework that meets the highest standards of reliability and operational sustainability.

The project contributes to enhancing the stability and efficiency of the stadium’s electrical supply, ensuring its operational readiness during sporting events and peak times. This aligns with national efforts to improve readiness as the Kingdom progresses its preparations to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Work has included the construction of a 115/13.8 kilovolt substation and its connection to the electrical grid via more than 2.4 km of underground cables.

The project has also incorporated advanced protection and operational systems, including Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, and communications technologies, to enhance supply reliability and ensure service continuity, in line with international best practices.

The company said that the project was completed within an 18-month timeframe in accordance with approved technical and regulatory requirements, with national engineering and technical teams participating in all phases from design to operational testing, underscoring the Kingdom’s expanding capabilities in power transmission.

According to the SPA, the project’s completion reflects Saudi Electricity Company’s commitment to developing the power transmission system, supporting the operation of sports and service facilities, and enhancing infrastructure readiness in the Eastern Province.

This aligns with the Kingdom’s long-term objectives and its vision to host world-class events to the highest standard.


Economic growth and resilience at heart of 2nd AlUla Emerging Market Economies Conference

Updated 03 February 2026
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Economic growth and resilience at heart of 2nd AlUla Emerging Market Economies Conference

  • Event on Feb. 8 and 9 will bring together ministers, governors of central banks, policymakers, economic experts and international financial institutions
  • Emerging-market economies a ‘pivotal element’ in global economic system due to effect they have on growth and stability, says Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan

RIYADH: The second annual AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies, which Saudi Arabia will host next week, offers a platform to exchange views on global developments and discuss policies and reforms that support inclusive growth and strengthen economic resilience, the Kingdom’s finance minister said.

The event on Feb. 8 and 9 will bring together finance ministers, governors of central banks and policymakers, alongside economic experts and representatives of international financial institutions.

Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Finance in partnership with the International Monetary Fund, it takes place as emerging-market economies face mounting challenges amid rapid global economic change.

Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan said the decision to host the conference reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to efforts that support global financial and economic stability, and highlights the growing influence of emerging economies on worldwide growth.

Emerging-market economies represent a “pivotal element” in the global economic system due to the direct impact they have on economic growth and stability, he added.

“The AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies provides a unique platform for exchanging views on global economic developments, and discussing policies and reforms that will support inclusive growth and enhance economic resilience, in light of broader international cooperation that contributes to confronting common challenges,” Al-Jadaan said.

Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the IMF, said the event would help emerging economies deal with growing uncertainty driven by technological change, demographic shifts and geopolitical tensions.

“The AlUla conference provides a vital platform for emerging economies to discuss how they can navigate the risks and embrace the opportunities ahead,” she said.

“In these times of sweeping transformations in the global economy, policymakers face a more challenging and uncertain environment. Countries should work together to strengthen resilience through sound macroeconomic and financial policies.”