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Lucien Zeigler

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The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30A new Giga Project for MeccaAfter a whirlwind month of travel, Lucien and Dr. Hanaa are back on The TWENTY30 Podcast—and strap in, because they have a LOT of catching up to do. A lot has happened in the fast-paced, fast-changing Kingdom over the past few weeks. The hosts try to tackle as much of it as they can in this episode to kick off the season and a regular schedule of content excellence for listeners and viewers.  In this show, Lucien leads a DEEPDIVE on the latest "Giga Project" coming to Saudi Arabia: The monumental King Salman Gate project—Mecca’s 12 mi...
2025-10-221h 04The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30PWC's Basma Bushnaq on how education in Saudi Arabia has changedSaudi Arabia is now a leading market for education investment. In this conversation, Basma Bushnaq, Partner at PWC, discusses the evolving landscape of schools, the demand for quality teachers, and the future of education in Saudi Arabia and globally. The significant reforms and investment opportunities driven by Vision 2030 has created an almost unrecognizable and booming market in the Kingdom. She shares her personal journey in education, the challenges and opportunities within the sector, and the importance of collaboration and local partnerships in implementing effective educational practices.  Before the conversation, Hanaa and Lucien, long overdue for a catchup, d...
2025-10-1649 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Saudi Arabia's Quiet Revolution: Legal ReformsBack from vacation (so back) and ready to hit the ground running with a normal schedule, the TWENTY30 co-hosts Lucien and Hanaa begin the show by catching up after the break. Then, Hanaa leads an interesting DEEPDIVE segment on Saudi Arabia's "Quiet Revolution," which is major progress with legal reforms for individuals and businesses in the kingdom as it continues to transform. New laws and a series of regulations has made doing business in Saudi Arabia so much easier than before, and legal reforms have empowered women and redefined social issues for the better for citizens and residents. These...
2025-09-061h 02The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30The impact and investment opportunities of Saudi Arabia's new real estate lawSaudi Arabia's transformative new real estate law opens doors for international ownership and is set to redefine the Kingdom's property landscape and charm global investors with new opportunities. Faisal Durrani, partner and head of research for Knight Frank Middle East sits down with co-hosts Lucien and Hanaa to discuss the landmark new law, which allows foreign buyers to buy property in Saudi Arabia.  The hosts ask Faisal to break down what's in this new law and speak to the impact the law might have on prices, foreign investment, and the potential for the new law to catapult S...
2025-08-0822 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Author and influencer Ghada AlMuhanna Abalkhail returns to discuss her latest book series and much more...We're so back! And so is Ghada Almuhanna Abalkhail, the TWENTY30's cultural expert, who returns to the show to discuss her latest book series that explores the concept of the Saudi homeland through archival photographs. She shares insights and observations behind creating the books and the photographs that define them,  emphasizing the emotional connection to the photographs she selects. Ghada also reflects on the challenges of compiling artifacts and textiles for her work, and highlights influential figures in her life who inspire her passion for cultural heritage and history. The conversation touches on the significance of preserving cultural n...
2025-07-311h 16The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Is the nearly $500m for Ronaldo to return worth it?Happy 4th of July! In Episode 57, the hosts catch up after a break and discuss some feedback, including one listener/viewer who asks the hosts to share something that listeners might not know about themselves. Then Lucien leads a Deep Dive into the return of Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia. He's back! While the price tag is massive, it is very likely worth every penny for Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is experiencing an extraordinary phase of growth, with undertakings that reinforce its global presence and soft power. The landmark decision for Cristiano Ronaldo to continue his career at...
2025-07-0548 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Esports World Cup's Faisal Bin Homran takes us inside Saudi Arabia's esports ambitionsFaisal Bin Homran, Chief Product Officer at the Esports World Cup Foundation, is at the forefront of a growing esports movement in Saudi Arabia and globally. In the ever-evolving world of gaming, Saudi Arabia is emerging as a major player, actively positioning itself as a global hub for esports. This ambition is making waves worldwide, driven by a strategy backed by none other than His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince - an avid gamer himself.  Faisal joins hosts Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler on the TWENTY30 for an exclusive conversation about his work overseeing what is now t...
2025-06-2446 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Saudi MMA chief Rasha Alkhamis talks growth of combat sports and vision for ecosystemPresident and Chairwoman of the Saudi Mixed Martial Arts Federation join co-hosts Hanaa and Lucien for an exclusive interview, shedding light on her journey from being the first Saudi woman certified as a boxing coach to holding prominent positions in international sports organizations and her new role as head of the Saudi MMA Federation. Rasha talks with The TWENTY30 about the significant investments and strategies driving the growth in the sport, with ambitious plans under Vision 2030. The 4-time Guinness Book of World Records-holder was also recently named one of ADWEEK’s Most Powerful Women in Sports 2025. Before th...
2025-06-0858 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30A 'Rebirth" of the U.S.-Saudi relationship? U.S.-Saudi Business Council CEO Charles Hallab discusses new era after Trump vistCharles Hallab, President and CEO of the US-Saudi Business Council, joins The TWENTY30 co-hosts Lucien Zeigler and Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed to react to the impact and importance of U.S. President Trump's recent visit to Saudi Arabia. Hallab, who recently became President and CEO of the longstanding organization after a lifelong career (and portion of his childhood!) in Saudi Arabia and in U.S.-Saudi business relations, characterizes the recent visit as more than a reset in relations, emphasizing the excitement and energy among young Saudis and the opportunities for US companies. The co-hosts speak with Charles about the...
2025-05-2659 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30What does the surge in Saudi patent filings mean for the Kingdom?In Episode #53, Lucien, on his last day in the U.S. before returning to Saudi Arabia on Friday and Dr. Hanaa, joining from Muscat, Oman, catch up with each other, with Dr. Hanaa giving her impressions from her inaugural trip to Oman and Lucien boasting about the weather in the U.S. right now. Then, the hosts get to a DEEPDIVE led by Lucien. The innovation landscape in Saudi Arabia just got a big boost on the back of news highlighting a significant increase in patent filings in Saudi Arabia, which has significant long-term economic implications and serves as a...
2025-05-0937 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30How is Vision 2030 doing?Hanaa and Lucien catch up and read some feedback on recent episodes to kick off Episode 52, in a rare moment in which both are recording the episode from their homes in the UK and US, respectively. Then, Lucien leads a DEEPDIVE into the Vision 2030 report for 2024, released this week. Over the past year, several Vision 2030 targets have been reached ahead of schedule. Others have been exceeded entirely. Progress includes achievements in tourism, employment, and PIF's gains, but the report also addresses areas needing improvement like FDI. Lucien makes the point that, data and findings aside, the report itself is...
2025-05-0239 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Much ado about the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia?In Episode 51, Dr. Hanaa, fresh off of her recent trip to Japan with her family, discusses her visit there and the hosts share observations of that amazing country. Lucien recaps his recent experience and outcomes from Riyadh's Human Capability Initiative 2025. After the hosts catch up, Dr. Hanaa leads a DEEPDIVE on the Eastern Province and a recent podcast interview in Arabic in which the topic of growth and investment into the "EP" (as Lucien calls it) is addressed. There are misconceptions about the Eastern Provinces' progress and development, especially in relation to other areas of the Kingdom.  T...
2025-04-2752 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30EPISODE #50! Saudi Arabia's soaring position on the Global Youth Index + Hanaa's 'Dragon Era'In this episode, hosts Lucien and Hanaa take a moment at the start to celebrate the 50th episode milestone of the TWENTY30 Podcast. Now with 45,000+ subscribers, the hosts reflect a little on the journey so far while noting it is just the beginning. Dr. Hanaa leads a DEEPDIVE, with a discussion on the findings in the recently released the Global Youth Index 2024, which assesses youth development across 40 countries. They delve into Saudi Arabia's performance in youth development, highlighting improvements in education and entrepreneurship. The hosts would like to thank all of our subscribers, viewers, and listeners for...
2025-04-2240 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30What Saudi Arabia's new urban architectural guidelines means for residents, visitorsIn Episode 49, co-hosts Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler catch up after a short break over the Eid holidays before jumping into a DEEPDIVE on Saudi Arabia's new architectural guidelines, released by HRH the Crown Prince (along with a map!). Saudi Arabia is identifying and solidifying its heritage through new urban development guidelines that incorporate the kingdom’s indigenous design traditions. The initiative will serve as a guideline for developers, Saudi real estate businesses, and urban planning projects, ensuring that new developments complement their surroundings while integrating traditional architectural elements into modern designs. The hosts discuss - an...
2025-04-1133 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30CEO of NIDLP Suliman Almazroua talks Vision 2030 Progress, Saudi Arabia's Industrial DevelopmentIn a landmark episode of The Twenty30 Podcast, co-hosts Lucien Zeigler and Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed sat down in person for an exclusive interview with Suliman Almazroua, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), one of the 13 powerful ‘Vision Realization Programs’ identified as “the driving force behind Vision 2030.” A former Aramco executive with decades of experience at the intersection of technology and operations, Almazroua was tapped to lead NIDLP during a critical moment for Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation. Under his leadership, NIDLP has made remarkable progress — with over half of its Vision 2030 targets already completed five...
2025-03-2731 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30The success of Mawhiba and Saudi Arabia's advances in educationThe Saudi-funded education organization 'Mawhiba' and its initiatives have a significant impact on young Saudi talent. The organization empowers young Saudis through STEM education and science competitions, including The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2025. Bright young Saudis will visit Columbus, Ohio to compete - and win - international recognition on May 10-16. ISEF is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.  Mawhiba's success is part of a broader effort to advance Saudi education as part of Vision 2030 - one that's paying off. The hosts discuss the transformative changes in Saudi Arabia's education system, the rise of u...
2025-03-2149 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30The rise of Saudi Arabia's tech ecosystem with seasoned Saudi investor Hussein AttarHow far has Saudi come in the development of its entrepreneurship and tech ecosystem? Hussein Atar, a leading venture capitalist and tech influencer who has been on the ground floor of the movement in Saudi Arabia, discusses the significant progress and road ahead for Saudi Arabia's goals of becoming a global technology powerhouse. He shares his journey from being a tech startup founder to leading a venture capital fund, highlighting key milestones and government initiatives that have fostered entrepreneurship in the region. Hussein also talks about recent investments, the role of failure in the ecosystem, and the future outlook...
2025-03-1556 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30How Saudi Arabia's nonprofit sector boomed - plus MDLBeast's expansion, PWC drama and moreWell well well look who's back! In episode 45 of The TWENTY30, the hosts catch up at the start to talk about the start of Ramadan, leading to a discussion about how the month typically changes lives, working hours, and of course, dining habits for Saudis. After the hosts catch up from a short break, Hanaa leads a DEEPDIVE into Saudi Arabia's booming nonprofit sector, which is ahead of Vision 2030 targets and increasingly contributing to Saudi Arabia's GDP. A new report, "Prospects for the Non-Profit Sector 2025," prepared by the King Khalid Foundation, highlights that the sector has exceeded SR100 billion...
2025-03-071h 01The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Saudi stars of Netflix hit 'Camel Quest' Omar Almaeena and Safwan Modir talk camel breeding, racing, and life on screenMeet Omar AlMaeena and Safwan Modir, founders of RedSea Camel Company and stars of the hit Netflix series 'Camel Quest.' Tired of their jobs and longing for something new, Omar and Safwan took a big leap in 2021, leaving their previous work in finance, entertainment and hospitality and founded a camel breeding farm in the largely-bucolic Qassim region of Saudi Arabia - not an easy leap for two guys from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia's second largest city. When they launched Redsea Camel Company, they became the first camel owners to incorporate a company and treat Camel breeding as...
2025-02-1555 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Why the STC bank news is a significant milestone for banking and fintech in Saudi...plus, Hans Zimmer!In Episode 43 of the TWENTY30 Podcast, co-hosts Lucien and Hanaa discuss a major milestone in the Saudi banking sector with the launch of the Kingdom's first all-digital bank, STC Bank. In Lucien's DEEPDIVE, he shares the journey of the bank from a small and unknown entity to acquisition by STC to approval by the Saudi Central Bank (aka SAMA) roughly 8 years later, and why it is a watershed moment for the banking sector and fintech in Saudi Arabia. The approval by SAMA opens the doors to more operators in this space - but it was done with caution, putting...
2025-02-0131 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30How Saudi women's football defies gravity - and stereotypes about the KingdomIn Episode 42, Hanaa Almoaibed leads a deepdive examining the evolution and milestones of women's football in Saudi Arabia and the rapid establishment and scale of the sport in just a few years. Recently, NEOM released a report entitled 'Pioneering Change: Women's Football in Saudi Arabia,' highlighting just how far things have come for the popular sport in the Kingdom for women, and the incredible ecosystem and societal benefits it has had so far. Multiple factors are propelling this success, including government investment, grassroots initiatives, high-profile coaching, and strategic partnerships. Roles of female coaches as role models and comprehensive...
2025-01-2842 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Let's talk about the Riyadh Metro...In Episode 41, regular guest contributor, influencer, and Saudi cultural consultant Ghada AlMuhanna joins hosts Lucien and Hanaa to talk about Riyadh's new metro system, now fully launched and operational in the Kingdom's capital. The hosts and Ghada talk about their perceptions and impressions riding the metro for the first time - what's great, what's unique, and how the metro is impacting culture and life in the city. The Riyadh metro is more than just a transportation system - it's a major cultural shift for a city where just a few years ago, women couldn't drive and the mixing of...
2025-01-191h 04The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30We're so back! Saudi Arabia's 'livestock city', a record-setting waterspout, and much moreThe TWENTY30 kicks off 2025 with Episode 40 (!) after a short break over the holiday season with Lucien now in Riyadh joining from King Saud University and Dr. Hanaa having completed several weeks in Saudi Arabia over the break. The hosts catch up on Lucien's move with family and discuss the weather and the exciting guests coming up on the show in the coming weeks. Lucien leads a DEEPDIVE on Saudi Arabia's new "livestock city" planned for the Eastern Province in Saudi Arabia and the hosts discuss the strategic investment as important for the Kingdom's food sustainability and security needs. Then...
2025-01-1544 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Dina Amin, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s Visual Arts Commission, talks art ecosystem development, trends, and moreHappy Holidays to The TWENTY30’s growing community of listeners and viewers! In Episode 39, co-hosts Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler are joined by Dina Amin, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s Visual Arts Commission to talk about how Saudi Arabia is developing homegrown artistic talent and the work she’s doing in building an art ecosystem from the ground-up. The Visual Arts Commission, as part of the Ministry of Culture, is tasked with ensuring Saudi Arabia develops into a vibrant creative community - and in appointing Dina in 2020 - are already full speed ahead. Dina spent over two decades in the...
2024-12-241h 16The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Is Saudi Arabia an e-government leader? The U.N. says ‘yes’Saudi Arabia has soared up in UN rankings on digital government and e-government, jumping 25 places in the latest UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2024. Not only that, but Riyadh city is - amazingly - now ranked 3rd GLOBALLY among 193 cities worldwide. The high rankings are welcomed in Saudi Arabia, but for residents and regular visitors, it is not all that surprising. The Kingdom’s e-government services across a variety of platforms are impressive, efficient and reliable - and used with ease in everyday life in Saudi Arabia.  In EPISODE 28, Hanaa leads a DEEPDIVE on the newest rankings and tal...
2024-12-1356 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30What can we learn from the story and success of Jubail, Saudi Arabia’s original giga-project?Much of the talk inside and outside of Saudi Arabia is about the Kingdom’s giga-projects. Can they be done? Will their impact match or exceed the investment? Although 6 giga-projects are now actively being built in Saudi Arabia, none are the first. Jubail Industrial City is the original, and as the first successful giga-project, offers a blueprint for the successful completion and economic payoff of other giga-projects as the Kingdom transforms.   Jubail Industrial City in Saudi Arabia is hosting the Sixth International Conference on Learning Cities 2024. Representatives of UNESCO learning cities from around the world are...
2024-12-011h 07The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Rising prices and a Saudi real estate boom: Faisal Durrani on Saudi Arabia's soaring housing marketThe TWENTY30’s Saudi real estate guru, Faisal Durrani, partner and head of research at Knight Frank Middle East, is back! Faisal joins hosts Lucien and Hanaa to discuss some of the latest research and findings from Knight Frank, the leading consultancy on real estate in the Middle East region, and to give listeners an update on the booming real estate market in Saudi Arabia. There’s been a 38% surge in real estate transactions across all asset classes in the country, and the conversation covers the complex factors driving the housing market, including government initiatives under Vision 2030, the rise in h...
2024-11-2051 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Faris Al-Sulayman, Co-Founder of leading Saudi Solar company Haala Energy, talks renewables and solar growth in KSAEpisode 35! Co-hosts Lucien and Hanaa kick off the episode discussing the recent addition to Lucien's family, and catch-up on Hanaa's recent travels to Saudi Arabia to speak at a CSR Forum in Riyadh, as well as visit her hometown and family in the Eastern Province.  Then, joining the hosts on the MAINSTAGE is Faris Al-Sulayman, co-founder at Haala Energy, a leading Saudi solar energy company that installs solar power projects for commercial, industrial, and agricultural clients. Faris joins The TWENTY30 for an exclusive conversation about the growth of Haala, the challenges and opportunities in solar power in t...
2024-11-091h 20The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30The 8th FII in Riyadh, Sindalah Island, Herve Renard, and Chinese Tourism...It's FII week in Riyadh! 📈 That means the who's who of the finance, investment, and business world are descending upon the Saudi capital for Saudi Arabia's largest annual event - the 8th Future Investment Initiative held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center (KAICC).  Co-hosts Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler talk about the event and discuss some elements of the program and speakers, as well as the surrounding events and vibe of the city as it hosts visitors from around the world.  Before the DEEPDIVE on FII, the hosts discuss a new NEWS format for T...
2024-10-2751 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Lama Khaiyat and the evolving Saudi consultancy ecosystemLama Khaiyat, CEO of Awtada, a boutique Saudi consultancy and public policy advisory firm, joins hosts Hanaa and Lucien to discuss the world of consulting in Saudi Arabia and the rapid growth of her firm.  The consultancy market in Saudi Arabia reached $3.2 billion in 2023. The market grew by 17.5% in 2022, and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.5% through 2029. But recently, multiple outlets have reported of a "recalibration" of Vision 2030 projects that involves a reprioritization of spending, putting a pinch on some of the larger consultancies operating in the Kingdom. But the recalibration i...
2024-10-2157 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Saudi women in the Kingdom's workforce, green hydrogen, Will Smith, and Atlético MadridIn Episode 32, co-hosts Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler share thoughtful feedback from Episode 31 and the TWENTY30's exclusive conversation with entrepreneur Iyad Aldalooj, which elicited tons of comments and excitement from many in and outside of Saudi Arabia. Then the hosts get to a DEEPDIVE on Saudi women in the workforce, and how the labor market transformation in Saudi Arabia has significantly advanced opportunities for women to work and pursue careers in various fields and sectors throughout the Kingdom.   The hosts conclude with the latest news on Saudi Arabia, including: •The Saudi stock mar...
2024-10-1445 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Iyad Aldalooj, CEO of Penny Software and Ex-Careem exec, talks entrepreneurship, tech, and moreIyad Aldalooj started Penny Software after serving as an executive for Careem, the mobility startup which exited for $3 billion to Uber Technologies. Penny is now one of the Kingdom's fastest-growing startups with SAR 1 billion in transactions in 2023 and customers worldwide. In an exclusive interview and conversation with hosts Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler, Iyad shares his journey, which begins in the Eastern Province in Saudi Arabia. After studying at the University of Nebraska in the United States, he fell in love with entrepreneurship. When he moved back to the Kingdom, he joined Careem, where he was an...
2024-10-091h 03The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30The Luxury Market in Saudi ArabiaEpisode 30! 🤩 Hosts Hanaa and Lucien kick off the show catching up on a busy week with tons of travel ahead. In this episode, Hanaa does a DEEPDIVE into Saudi Arabia as a luxury market and destination for fashion and luxury goods. A recently-released report titled 'New Codes of Luxury in Saudi Arabia' by the TOGETHER group and the Future Laboratory group explores the evolving luxury market in Saudi Arabia, focusing on affluent consumers, the impact of women entrepreneurs, and the increasing significance of youth in shaping trends.   The report is loaded with interesting statistics: 88% of affl...
2024-09-2951 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Saudi National Day 2024: Ghada Almuhanna joins to discuss the rich history and traditionsA special episode to celebrate Saudi National Day on Monday, September 23! The TWENTY30's special guest contributor, Ghada Almuhanna, a visual anthropologist who is widely followed through her Instagram account documenting interesting Saudi photos and art, joins to talk all things Saudi National Day on the 94th anniversary.  Saudi National Day celebrates the formal unification of the Kingdom in 1932. Ghada joins hosts Lucien and Hanaa for a lively and fun discussion of the evolution of National Day celebrations, how patriotism is expressed uniquely across Saudi regions, and the recent tradition of officially taking the day off since a...
2024-09-2250 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Hassan Albalawi, founder and CEO of Saudi startup success story WakeCap, talks construction, tech, and much moreFrom Tabuk, a mid-size city in Saudi Arabia's northern region, to a PHD from Duke University and now founder of one of Saudi Arabia's most successful startup companies, Dr. Hassan Albalawi's incredible journey represents a successful investment by Saudi Arabia into the promise of its citizens. In Episode 28, Dr. Hassan sits down with The TWENTY30's Lucien Zeigler and Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed for an exclusive interview and conversation to discuss the genesis and growth of WakeCap, an innovative and fast-growing construction technologies company that allows employers to monitor the safety and productivity of workers on the job site. WakeCap...
2024-09-171h 12The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Riyadh Season is so backRiyadh Season, a globally unique and dynamic annual series of events in Saudi Arabia, is back for 2024-2025. It's *so* back -- and this year is likely to be the best yet. Lucien leads the episode's DEEPDIVE segment on the season, now well-established and evolving with new offerings each year, includes a diverse range of activities such as theme parks, concerts, pop-up restaurants, sports events, and fashion shows across multiple venues in Riyadh. Some key highlights for this year include the introduction of notable sports events like tennis and boxing matches, UFC, elite soccer games, and fashion...
2024-09-1050 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Generations of Saudis, definedIn Episode 26, the hosts begin by commenting off the cuff on an element of The TWENTY30's introduction track, and how an effect of Dr. Hanaa's voice made them think about a Rihanna song, which caused Hanaa to share some interesting things she learned in a recent singing instruction. Despite Lucien's pleas, Hanaa declined (!) to sing the Rihanna song she practiced in that class. Hanaa then leads the show's DEEPDIVE segment with a discussion on generational identities in Saudi Arabia. A new report highlights Saudi Arabia's generations, and Hanaa notes how fascinating they are as they define...
2024-09-0557 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Saudi Minister: The Riyadh Metro will open this yearAs The TWENTY30 reaches an exciting milestone of 10,000 subscribers (!) and 25 episodes, the hosts begin by reflecting briefly on the journey so far, and why they feel grateful and appreciative of all the listeners and viewers who have supported the show with subscriptions, follows, shares, and feedback (it’s not too late to do so, by the way! Click on the subscribe link wherever you’re listening or viewing today’s episode). Last episode (#24) with special guest and former SIDF CEO Ibrahim Almojel, generated a large volume of positive feedback on the conversation. Hanaa and Lucien begin the show w...
2024-08-2955 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Ibrahim Almojel, former CEO of the SIDF and leading investor, shares insights on Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation, NIDLP, and investment opportunitiesDr. Ibrahim Almojel joins The TWENTY30 hosts Hanaa and Lucien for an exclusive conversation in Episode 24. Almojel, who sits on the board of nearly a dozen of the most active government and private investment funds in Saudi Arabia, also lead Saudi Arabia’s most powerful industrial investment body for 5 pivotal years after Vision 2030 launched. During that time, Almojel not only transformed the fund into an investment powerhouse and ecosystem developer, he was also tasked with implementing the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), one of the most consequential transformation programs in the Vision.   The TWE...
2024-08-2253 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Saudi Arabia, the World Cup, and the development of homegrown talentIn Episode 23, hosts Hanaa and Lucien discuss a recent interview with Saudi Arabia's Minister of Sport Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Saud and how the Kingdom is going all-in on football with its recent finalized bid for the World Cup 2034 and major investments into stadiums and the development of local talent -- not just on the pitch but in the administration of its up and coming Saudi Pro League. The hosts conclude as always with the latest news out of Saudi Arabia, a new Arabic word for the episode, and shoutouts to Saudi changemakers playing a key role in the...
2024-08-111h 00The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Princess Fahda Bandar Al-Saud talks tourism, transformation, and ‘The Traveling Panther’The tourism sector in Saudi Arabia is set to be the fastest growing in the Middle East over the next decade, with an average annual growth of 11%. Joining hosts Hanaa and Lucien this week on the MAINSTAGE segment of The TWENTY30 Podcast is HH Princess Fahda Bandar Al-Saud, Saudi tourism entrepreneur who transformed a popular instagram hobby into a thriving tourism services and consultancy business called ‘The Traveling Panther’ that is now a leader in the space and works closely with the Kingdom’s Ministry of Tourism. In this exclusive conversation with The TWENTY30 Podcast, Princess Fahda discus...
2024-08-051h 10The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30The new development that will change Riyadh’s housing marketHosts Lucien and Hanaa, both located in the U.S. for the first time (though on opposite coasts), catch up on their recent travel and share some feedback from a listener. Before the DEEPDIVE segment, the hosts also share a new segment they're introducing this episode, a "SHOUTOUTS" portion to conclude the program, which shares stories of people who are doing interesting, good, or productive work - especially as it relates to the advancement of Vision 2030 and the transformation underway -- the very subject of this podcast.   In the DEEPDIVE, Lucien gives an overview of a...
2024-08-0135 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30How many new football stadiums are coming to Saudi Arabia?In Episode #20 (!) of The TWENTY30 Podcast, hosts Hanaa and Lucien catch up on all the feedback they've gotten over the past week, which included a flood of positive comments on Fatima Batook's episode (#19). Then the hosts get to Lucien's DEEPDIVE segment, which is an overview and analysis of all of the stadiums that Saudi Arabia is building now as the Kingdom rolls up its sleeves and begins preparation for both The 2027 AFC Asian Cup (the 19th edition of the AFC Asian Cup) and, of course, the FIFA World Cup in 2034. The DEEPDIVE was prompted by the announcement of the...
2024-07-2244 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Trailblazer for Saudi women and fitness entrepreneur Fatima Batook on Saudi Arabia's sporting vision, female sports participation and moreIn Episode 19, hosts Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler talk with Fatima Batook, a trailblazer for Saudi women in sports and the founder of Teema, the first Saudi Arabian sports apparel brand. Fatima discusses her transformative journey in the world of fitness and sports. She shares her experiences and challenges establishing spinning and fitness studios across Saudi Arabia and the region, and observations from her roles serving on various boards in the Kingdom, including the Saudi Business Women's Executive Council, the Saudi Tennis Federation, and the Al Qadisiyah Football Club. Fatiwma delves into the changes she’s observed in...
2024-07-151h 02The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30A report card on Saudi Arabia's transformationSaudi Arabia's transformation is full speed ahead. So how is it going so far? The latest IMF report on Saudi Arabia ("Saudi Arabia: Concluding Statement of the 2024 Article IV Mission") is, in some ways, a report card on Saudi Arabia's reforms and the changes happening to the Kingdom's economy. Successes in non-oil growth, employment, inflation control, and financial sector stability top the performance report for the IMF.  The IMF notes that Saudi Arabia’s "unprecedented economic transformation is progressing well. Prudent macroeconomic policies, transformative changes—including through fiscal reforms and in the regulatory business environment—and strong domesti...
2024-07-0836 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Abdulaziz Alnaim, Managing Director of Mayar Capital, talks value investing, reforms, and the rise of the Saudi marketSaudi Arabia is increasingly becoming one of the more attractive up-and-coming markets for international investors. The TWENTY30 Podcast welcomes Abdulaziz Alnaim, Managing Director of London-based Mayar Capital and seasoned equities investor known for his "value investing" strategy, to discuss why his fund waited to enter the Saudi market as a investor - and why the market is evolving into one with strong opportunities now and recently.  Abdulaziz shares his journey to become an experienced investor with a successful fund with Mayar Capital shaping future opportunities around the world and in the Kingdom.  Before the MAINSTAGE co...
2024-07-021h 07The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Fossil fuel consumption reaches record levels. But has it peaked? + Worker safety in the heat in KSA and much more...Episode 16 of The TWENTY30 Podcast hosted by Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler once again finds the two hosts on direct opposite sides of the planet, with Hanaa in Singapore speaking at a conference and Lucien on vacation at his home in the United States. Listener feedback takes a light-hearted turn with comments on Lucien's “improving” tan, leading to a broader discussion on the cultural implications and personal anecdotes surrounding names and their meanings in different regions. The episode's DEEP DIVE centers on a comprehensive new report from the Energy Institute, co-authored by KPMG and Kearney, detailing fossil fuel...
2024-06-2747 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Salman Al-Sudairi, leading Saudi lawyer and markets advisor talks new Saudi IPO regulations, reformsSaudi Arabia’s Capital Market Authority recently published new guidelines for the offering and listing of foreign companies on the Kingdom’s Main Market, the Tadawul. Leading Saudi attorney and go-to advisor for nearly every major IPO in the past decade (including Saudi Aramco’s blockbuster 2020 listing and recent share sale) Salman Al-Sudairi joins The TWENTY30 Podcast for an exclusive conversation about the new rules and guidelines, the evolution of the Kingdom’s stock market, and how Vision 2030’s reforms are pushing greater interest in investing in Saudi Arabia. Salman Al-Sudairi is a partner at Latham & Watkins LLP, one of the lea...
2024-06-2349 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Discussing the powerful imagery and viral visuals of the Hajj pilgrimage with Ghada AlmuhannaEid Mubarak! In Episode 14, the hosts welcome Ghada Almuhanna back onto The TWENTY30 for her monthly segment to share insights into the diverse and culturally rich photographs taken during Hajj by pilgrims and the significance of these images. They highlight stories of personal experiences, historical visuals, and viral content that captures the essence of this spiritual journey. The conversation spans from the logistics and preparation for Hajj to the historical attempts of Europeans to document Mecca, showcasing Hajj as a unique and profound event uniting Muslims globally. Before the conversation with Ghada, the hosts discuss the latest...
2024-06-151h 05The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Discussing Saudi film and cinema with leading Saudi documentary filmmaker Abdulrahman Sandokji and much more...Abdulrahman Sandokji, a Riyadh-based leading documentary filmmaker joins hosts Hanaa and Lucien in Episode 13 of The TWENTY30 for an exclusive discussion about the status of film and cinema in Saudi Arabia and discusses his journey from having his first camera at age 15 to becoming a notable figure in the industry, directing and producing numerous projects featured on major broadcast channels and festivals, including the 10th Saudi Film Festival.  Sandokji recently finished a documentary called “Underground” about Saudi Arabia’s growing music scene and reacts to the experience of filming the documentary, which follows artists around the Kingdom. He also...
2024-06-101h 32The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30How can real estate drive Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to success?Faisal Durrani, Partner and Head of Research, Knight Frank Middle East joins The TWENTY30 Podcast hosts Lucien and Hanaa for a discussion on a wide range of topics on Saudi Arabia's booming real estate sector, giga projects, construction, and other developments. Knight Frank is one of the world's leading real estate consultancies, and the reports that it produces especially on the markets in the Middle East is second-to-none. Its latest, "Destination Saudi," is over 140 pages of facts and data released by Knight Frank -- part of which stems from a survey done by the organization on consumer habits and...
2024-06-061h 07The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Leading Saudi artist Manal Aldowayan discusses Venice Biennale, 'Shifting Sands', and art in ArabiaSaudi Arabia's leading contemporary artist Manal Aldowayan joins The TWENTY30 for an exclusive conversation and interview to discuss the Venice Biennale, her journey from computer science major to leading artist, and the development of art in Saudi Arabia. Aldowayan is representing Saudi Arabia at the 2024 Venice Biennale with a multimedia installation entitled Shifting Sands: A Battle Song, showing from April to November. Manal AlDowayan is one of Saudi Arabia’s most significant contemporary artists working internationally. Her work, which spans various mediums including photography, sound, sculpture, and participatory practice, interrogates traditions, collective memories, and the status and re...
2024-06-041h 18The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30UBS Saudi Arabia Chairman Ramzi Abukhadra joins The TWENTY30 to discuss Saudi Arabia’s banking sector and real estateThis week, the hosts welcome onto the TWENTY30 Mr. Ramzi Abukhadra, Chairman of the Board of UBS Saudi Arabia and longtime banker in the Kingdom to give an overview and some analysis on the banking sector in Saudi Arabia. How far has the banking sector in Saudi Arabia progressed? How can local banks compete with a flood of international heavyweights? And where is Riyadh’s real estate market going as major government-backed projects begin to enter the market?   Lucien and Hanaa take the opportunity to ask these questions and more in the program’s “MainStage” segment...
2024-05-281h 23The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Can Saudi Arabia be the world’s next great aviation hub?In the 10th episode of The TWENTY30, the hosts "celebrate" their "milestone" of 10 episodes before teasing two upcoming interviews as they start to introduce conversation segments to the program, featuring the some of the top voices and changemakers that are driving Saudi Arabia’s transformation plans. Regular publishing of that segment, called “The Mainstage,” begins in earnest this coming week as The TWENTY30 ramps up its operations. In Episode 11, the hosts will talk with Chairman of the Board of UBS Saudi Arabia, Ramzi Abukhadra, a seasoned banker with a long career working in the finance sector in Saudi...
2024-05-2433 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Swimsuits on the runway in Saudi Arabia at Red Sea Fashion Week, fast food real talk and more...Lucien and Hanaa kick off Episode 9 spending probably too much time discussing and debating Chick Fil-A and fast food preferences as Hanaa wraps up her week in LA, where she is traveling to interview Saudi Arabia's brightest youth at the Regeneron event in California.  Then, Hanaa's Deep Dive topic this week is the Red Sea Fashion Week (RSFW) in Saudi Arabia. The show was considered historic as models displayed swimsuits along Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast, known for its stunning blue waters and white sand beaches. The three-day event commenced with an opening show, followed by two d...
2024-05-1949 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Changes at key Saudi leadership positions, avoiding 'overheating' as Saudi grows fast, and much more...In episode 8 co-hosts Hanaa and Lucien are both still traveling and battling a very big time difference on both sides of the globe. “Chairman” Lucien tells us about his latest conference on Saudi Gigaprojects and construction.    The co-hosts come together to do a deep dive on the encouraging direction the Saudi economy is headed in by discussing HE Saudi Finance Minister Mohammad AlJadaan’s comments about some of the Kingdom’s macro-economic trends at the Qatar Economic Forum this week. Al Jadaan addressed the importance of spending smart throughout the diversification project to avoid ‘overheating’ and ‘economic...
2024-05-1634 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30The amazing journey of Saudi students at Regeneron in Los Angeles, plus Saudi embraces flying cars, a new visa, and more...In Episode Seven, The TWENTY30 Co-hosts, Hanaa and Lucien record this week’s episode from opposite ends of the globe and share some fantastic feedback they received from some early listeners and well wishers! Then, Hanaa kicks off Episode 7’s DEEPDIVE segment from Los Angeles where she joins The King Abdulaziz and his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba) students while they compete against 1700 students from around the world in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, ISEF 2024, the world’s largest pre-college STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) competition, taking place from May 11-17 . Stud...
2024-05-1329 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30A milestone for Saudi exports, Neom’s Sindalah island resort, and MDLBeast's expansionThe TWENTY30 Co-hosts, Hanaa and Lucien discuss the importance of swords and good sportsmanship as Hanaa’s son heads to a weekend fencing competition (good luck), One very important side benefit from the Kingdom’s expansion of competitive sports opportunities for young people! Turning the heat down on a very hot topic, Lucien dives deep into the world of air conditioners, highlighting an incredible success story in the ‘Made in Saudi’ Vision 2030 journey. The DEEPDIVE segment each episode is where the hosts explore and discuss and share thoughts on a topic to paint a fuller picture for listener...
2024-05-0940 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Paying tribute to legendary Saudi poet HRH Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsen, Dubai's new airport plans, and much moreThe co-hosts of TWENTY30 catch up and discuss Lucien's recent hectic week spent in a hospital in Georgetown, Washington, DC. Next, Hanaa Almoaibed adds her voice to the outpouring of deep condolences to the family of HRH Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsin, who died on May 4th, as well as condolences to her fellow Saudis and anyone whose lives he has touched.  HRH Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsin was the president of the Saudi Society for Culture and Arts since 1973. He was only 75 when he died in Paris after battling cancer. He was an intellectual a...
2024-05-0537 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30'LIVE' from London: Reacting to Vision 2030's recent report card, the WEF in Riyadh, camel racing and more...The TWENTY30 co-hosts meet up in Hanaa's adopted hometown of London for a special "live" recording of TheTWENTY30 for Episode 4 from studios in the neighborhood of Hackney. The hosts jump into a Deep Dive segment on the recently-announced Vision 2030 report card on the progress of the Vision. Then, the hosts discuss a menu of excellence on all things Saudi Arabia, kicking off first with sports in the Kingdom and discuss camel racing, the WEF, and so much more from Saudi Arabia this week.    Like The TWENTY30? In just a few seconds, you can re...
2024-05-0140 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Vision 2030's timetables, VAT and Tax in KSA, and a magic 8-ball predictionKicking off the third episode of The TWENTY30, co-hosts Lucien and Hanaa consult a magic 8 ball, the famous toy, on how the forthcoming show is going to turn out — receiving a funny answer with which you hopefully disagree (inshallah).   Then, Hanaa kicks off Episode 3’s DEEPDIVE segment, highlighting a recent interview from Mohammed Al-Jadaan, which produced a number of interesting comments on a range of topics including income tax and VAT in Saudi Arabia, the importance of open communication between government leaders and the public, and much more. The segment is part of an ongoing effor...
2024-04-2858 minThe TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Eid cash, Saudi.AI?, and guest contributor Ghada AlMuhanna talks Saudi storytelling and culture identityThe show opens with The TWENTY30 co-hosts, Hanaa and Lucien, catching up and discussing the recently-concluded Eid holiday and traditions around it in Saudi Arabia, including a surprising one surrounding cash gifts that stirs Hanaa’s memories of being a child in Saudi Arabia and piques Lucien’s interest.    Then the hosts jump into the show’s DEEPDIVE segment, highlighting a top storyline or topic that people are talking about. Lucien and Hanaa will use the DEEPDIVE segment each episode to allow for an exploration and discussion of the topic, sharing thoughts and research to paint a...
2024-04-231h 09The TWENTY30
The TWENTY30Introducing The TWENTY30 PodcastJoin co-hosts Hanaa Almoaibed and Lucien Zeigler for the exciting launch of The TWENTY30 Podcast, a brand new bi-weekly show dedicated to exploring Saudi Arabia’s rapid and significant transformation right before the world’s eyes.  In this episode, you'll hear: Introduction of Hanaa and Lucien, the seasoned podcasters behind The Twenty30 teaming up to provide the first ever show of its kind on Saudi Arabia in English A short discussion of the Podcast's mission: Filling the gap in English-language podcasts about Saudi Arabia despite global hunger for authentic stories and insights into the Kingdom. A sneak...
2024-04-2108 minThe 966
The 966Jobs and the labor market in Saudi Arabia with Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed, Ramadan in Riyadh and moreWhat is the state of the Saudi labor market today? How do Saudis find jobs, and how are young Saudis viewing their prospects in a changing and modernizing Saudi economy and society? Saudi labor market expert Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed talks with Lucien Zeigler about Saudi Arabia's changing labor force, the job market in the Kingdom, youth and employment, the embrace of technical and vocational training, women in the workforce, and so much more. Before the conversation, Lucien's One Big Thing is *the* one big thing in Saudi Arabia for pretty much every citizen and non-citizen alike: Ramadan...
2024-03-1744 minThe 966
The 966The Public Investment Fund's Head of National Development, Jerry Todd, talks PIF investment strategy, localization and more...Lucien Zeigler sits down with an exclusive conversation with Jerry Todd, Head of the National Development Division at the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, in a new format and program called 966 Live, recorded at PIF studios in a fireside chat style of engagement.Jerry Todd, who is also on the PIF’s Management Investment Committee, speaks with Lucien about a range of topics related to the PIF’s investment in key sectors in the local economy, human capital in Saudi Arabia, the development of strong supply chains and competitive ecosystems, and more. ...
2024-02-0419 minThe 966
The 966The price of oil in 2022, redefining Saudi citizenship, and two new mega-developments in Saudi Arabia1:35 - Richard's One Big Thing This Week is the recent U.S.-GCC statement on Iran. Diplomats from the U.S., Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations convened in Riyadh this week to discuss a coordinated effort to counter Iran’s “range of aggressive and dangerous policies,” the State Department confirmed in a statement. The U.S. GCC Iran Working Group Statement “affirmed the longstanding partnership between the U.S. and the members of the GCC and our shared determination to contribute to regional security and stability, under the framework of the GCC-US Strategic Partnership.”The statement...
2021-11-1949 minThe 966
The 966Saudi National Day, Residential Mortgages in the Kingdom, and U.S.-Saudi Relations under President BidenIn the first episode of THE 966, Richard Wilson and Lucien Zeigler discuss their "one big thing" this week in Saudi Arabia. Then the two hosts discuss the meaning behind Saudi Arabia's National Day, the dramatic increase in new residential mortgages in the Kingdom, and assessing U.S.-Saudi relations under President Biden so far. 
2021-10-0523 minThe 966
The 966Introducing The 966 - A New Podcast on Saudi ArabiaThe 966 is a new podcast covering all things Saudi Arabia. In this introduction to the show, hosts Richard Wilson and Lucien Zeigler discuss the origins of The 966, why Saudi Arabia is strategically important and why it’s fortunes – good or bad – matter to the U.S. The 966 explores the news, people, and issues that actually matter for the Kingdom through weekly conversations and interviews with Saudi business leaders, officials, newsmakers and others. THE 966 goes beyond the headlines and tackles complex economic, social and political issues – why they matter to and within Saudi Arabia, how they impact U.S. interests...
2021-10-0508 min