Launch of Saudi Arabian Office
May 06, 2025
Shannon International Development Consultants marked a milestone in it’s journey in Saudi Arabia on Thursday 1st May 2025 at Embassy of Ireland, Saudi Arabia in Riyadh. After 15 years in the Kingdom, Shannon International Development Consultants KSA was launched in partnership with Rayan Qutub .ريان قطب , an early advocate for Special Economic Zones in Saudi Arabia. Rayan was involved in the drafting of the Royal SEZ Decree and the evaluation of four of the first SEZ’s in the Kingdom.
The event brought together an amazing group of people who are all united by a shared vision, how Special Economic Zones can drive and enable the growth of the Saudi economy.
Rayan Qutub, Ambassor Gerry Cunningham and Kevin Rudden
We would like to thank Ambassador Gerry Cunningham for his welcoming words and opening up his home so graciously, and to Harriet Sexton Morel Deputy Head of Mission for her continued assistance. We would like to especially thank Enterprise Ireland and Enterprise Ireland MENA for their continued support especially Hani Belbaisi and his predecessor Daniel Cunningham who was with us from day one. We are most grateful for everyone who joined our celebration.
From inspiring speeches and meaningful conversations to big ideas and bold ambitions, it was an exceptional evening. We were delighted to be joined by our co-founder Caimin Jones and COO, Rachel McCarthy.
Kevin Rudden, Rachel McCarthy, Rayan Qutub, Brian Lahiff, Caimin Jones
As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, Kevin Rudden shared some powerful insights and unique opportunities during the event;
- Market access is everything: Saudi Arabia is just a 4-hour flight from one-third of the world’s population and 8 hours from two-thirds. It’s a natural hub for global trade and innovation
- Africa is growing: 9 of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies will be in Africa by the end of 2025, right on Saudi’s doorstep. Yet, less than 0.5% of global venture capital is flowing into the continent
- Innovation hubs are key: The demand for tech-driven, knowledge-based ecosystems is surging, and Special Economic Zones can play a critical role in this
- Nearshoring is reshaping global supply chains: With technological advancements reducing reliance on low-cost labour, manufacturers are moving closer to key markets
- The Orange Economy is booming: The creative industries now account for 3.1% of global trade and that share is only set to grow
It was a big night for us as our sister company Pivotal International also announced it’s full registration in the Kingdom.
We’re excited about what lies ahead and how Saudi Arabia’s strategic positioning, vision, and ambition can help shape the future of global economic development.
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