MOMENTUM 2025: A Landmark Development Finance Conference in Riyadh

The inaugural session of MOMENTUM 2025 has kicked off under the esteemed patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. This significant event, hosted by the National Development Fund (NDF) from December 9 to 11, 2025, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, aims to reshape the future of development finance on a global scale.

The theme for the conference, "Where Development Finance Meets Action," reflects the urgent need for effective strategies that leverage finance to implement sustainable development plans. His Excellency Mohammed bin Mazyad Al Tuwaijri emphasized that the Kingdom's leadership strongly believes in prioritizing human capital investments. This belief signals a determined trajectory toward a prosperous and sustainable national future.

Strengthening Global Development Finance

At the heart of the conference is the Kingdom's pivotal role in the global development finance landscape. Attendees will glean insights on best practices that align with the broader goals of Vision 2030. MOMENTUM 2025 brings together renowned experts and speakers from various sectors, contributing a wealth of knowledge aimed at invigorating development actions.

His Excellency Al Tuwaijri further noted that since its inception, the NDF has focused on stimulating financial sectors crucial to national prosperity. With twelve specialized funds and banks, the NDF works in unison to bolster economic growth and enhance environmental sustainability. Notably, in just the last year, the ecosystem facilitated financing surpassing SAR 52 billion while contributing around SAR 47 billion to the non-oil GDP. This immense financial activity demonstrates a meaningful shift from mere funding to tangible development achievements, enabling significant progress toward Saudi Arabia's economic diversification and job creation goals.

Achievements and Future Aspirations

The impacts of the NDF’s initiatives are evident; over one million beneficiaries have accessed financing and entrepreneurship opportunities, fostering an environment ripe for innovation and growth. During MOMENTUM 2025, these themes are expected to resonate, as discussions will center on enhancing collective responsibilities within the development sector, fortifying operational capabilities, and improving the coordination of socio-economic programs.

The opening ceremony was marked by an assembly of dignitaries, including various Royal Highnesses, ministers, CEOs, and international leaders within the development and economic domains. Their presence underscores the seriousness with which the Kingdom approaches its development finance agenda.

A Call to Action

MOMENTUM 2025 is structured to support the strategic directives of the National Development Fund and its affiliated entities. The conference intends to enrich the development ecosystem by enhancing operational efficiency, focusing on national priorities, and ensuring a coordinated impact on society and the economy. Through collaboration and innovation in development finance, Saudi Arabia sets forth its commitment to realizing Vision 2030’s ambitious goals.

This landmark event is not only a forum for sharing insights but also a catalyst for fostering partnerships that could drive the next wave of growth and sustainability initiatives. As the conference unfolds, the world watches to see how Saudi Arabia will lead in transforming financial resources into impactful developmental successes.