Vision 2030 and the Rise of Mobility Tech in the Middle East

The Middle East is undergoing a transformation. What was once considered a region following the pace of global innovation is now shaping its own path, particularly in mobility.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is at the heart of this shift. It’s not just a long-term strategy. It’s a clear signal to the world that the Middle East intends to lead the next wave of progress in technology, infrastructure, and industrial capability.

At Akkar, we work closely with engineering and talent leaders across the region. What we’re seeing on the ground is bold, fast-moving, and unlike anywhere else.

A Blueprint for Disruption

Vision 2030 is a national commitment to diversify the Saudi economy and future-proof it for the next generation. One of the key pillars of this initiative is building a world-class mobility ecosystem.

Across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, we’re seeing the early stages of what could be the next global hubs for advanced mobility.

Key developments include:

• The creation of Ceer, Saudi Arabia’s first EV brand, in partnership with global players

• Large-scale investment in aerospace, including partnerships with established OEMs and suppliers

• The rollout of smart city concepts like NEOM, which include integrated autonomous mobility systems and sustainability-first transport design

• A growing focus on AI, robotics, and automation as core enablers of the region’s infrastructure goals

This is no longer about catching up. It’s about setting the pace.

The Real Challenge: Talent and Execution

If the ambition is clear, so is the challenge. Delivering on this vision requires access to highly specialised technical talent. That’s where many organisations are currently facing pressure.

Engineering managers and HR leaders we speak to across the Middle East often tell us:

• They are under pressure to build teams quickly to meet project timelines

• The competition for niche technical skills—particularly in AI, autonomy, aerospace, and EV platforms—is intense

• Standard recruitment approaches often fall short when hiring at this level

This is the gap we help close. Whether it’s deploying targeted search to build out engineering teams or relocating top-tier UK and US talent through our mobility and visa solutions, Akkar supports companies scaling in the Middle East with a focus on precision and speed.

A Market Open to Global Innovation

In previous years, mobility innovation was centred around the US, Europe, and parts of Asia. Today, cities like Riyadh, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi are emerging as global innovation centres in their own right.

These governments are not only investing in infrastructure and technology, they are also working to attract the global talent needed to bring it to life. Regulatory frameworks, funding initiatives, and startup ecosystems are all maturing rapidly.

For mobility organisations, the Middle East represents a rare opportunity: a well-funded, forward-looking market that is actively seeking to partner with international expertise.

If your business is looking to scale in the Middle East, enter new markets, or build world-class engineering capability, now is the time to move.

We’re already supporting companies doing exactly that. To discuss how Akkar can support your next phase of growth, contact Joe Robinson at joe@akkar.com.