The year was 1945.
Near the end of World War II, Franklin D. Roosevelt journeyed home from the Yalta Conference, where he, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin had weighed the fate of post-war Europe. While his ship, the USS Quincy, cruised across the Great Bitter Lake in the Suez Canal, Roosevelt prepared for an encounter that would echo through history.
King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, known for his keen perception and formidable presence, boarded the Quincy wearing flowing robes that swayed in the desert breeze. Aides followed behind him, carrying small cups of Arabic coffee and dates as tokens of hospitality. FDR, seated in a comfortable chair on deck, greeted the king with warm enthusiasm.
“Your Majesty,” said Roosevelt, extending his hand. “We have much to discuss about the future of our two nations.”
King Abdulaziz inclined his head. “Indeed we do, Mr. President. The world changes faster than the wind across the dunes.”
Their conversation spanned oil, security, and the power reshuffling that marked the war’s final days. At one point, the king leaned closer, a spark of fascination in his eyes. He spoke of rumors that had reached him about contraptions allowing men to fly through the skies—wonders he had never witnessed himself. Roosevelt seized the moment. With a decisive nod, he summoned his ambassador.
“Arrange two Douglas DC-3 airplanes at once,” he instructed. “They will be a gift for His Majesty. Ensure they come with pilots and proper training.”
The king observed the photographs of the DC-3s, imagining these silver birds lifting from hot desert airstrips. Though he had never flown, the prospect thrilled him. “An extraordinary gift,” he said, a small smile forming beneath his proud gaze. “I welcome this new way for my people to explore the world.”
Meanwhile, Winston Churchill was determined not to be overshadowed. After his own meeting with the Saudi king, Churchill unveiled a gleaming Rolls-Royce Phantom, polished to a mirror finish.
“Your Majesty,” Churchill declared, “this car is the crown of British craftsmanship.”
King Abdulaziz admired the regal automobile but then revealed the photographs Roosevelt had shown him. Two planes that could sail the skies far beyond the confines of any road. Churchill’s expression shifted ever so slightly. He realized then that the Rolls-Royce, splendid though it was, could not match the promise of aviation’s boundless horizons.
King Abdulaziz spoke with characteristic courtesy, though the meaning was clear. “This is a generous gesture, Mr. Churchill, but I have already accepted the gift of flight.”
From that moment on, the course of Saudi Arabia’s strongest partnership was set. American innovation—symbolized by the Douglas DC-3—would solidify the new bond. Churchill left, replaying the scene in his mind, aware that history had just turned in favor of the United States. And so began decades of close collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the U.S., founded on shared interests in oil, security, and the marvel of flight.
These planes were instrumental in launching Saudi Arabia's aviation industry, eventually leading to the founding of Saudi Arabian Airlines (now Saudia).
After 80 years, the bond between these two nations remains strong, with Saudi Arabia now taking the lead in innovation. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy, reduce oil dependence, and grow key sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation, and tourism. Launched in 2016 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, this plan seeks to transform the Kingdom into a global investment hub. The Kingdom hopes to build a vibrant society, improve quality of life, promote culture and entertainment, and preserve cultural heritage. This ambitious plan includes diversifying the economy through non-oil investments and improving governance, accountability, and transparency in public services. Ambitious plans need ambitious projects, and Saudi Arabia is leading the way with initiatives like:
- Neom: a futuristic city on the Red Sea coast focused on innovation and technology.
- Red Sea Project: a luxury tourism destination.
- Saudi Green Initiative: focusing on sustainability, reducing carbon emissions, and increasing renewable energy.
- Privatization of State Assets: including parts of Saudi Aramco.
- Investment diversity: reducing reliance on oil by investing in sectors like technology, energy, tourism, and entertainment.
Saudi Arabia is a flourishing nation offering great opportunities across various industries, including AI. At the LEAP Conference, Saudi Arabia announced over $15 billion investment in data centers, with sea cable connections to Europe and Africa. Imagine a country with vast needs, ample resources, and the drive to make it happen—that's the current momentum.
While the USA and UK (and the Commonwealth) are leading major deals with the Kingdom, there are plenty of opportunities for other companies. For instance, deals between Saudi Arabia and Brazil represent $2 billion for the Brazilian economy.
The Ronaldo Effect and how Portuguese companies can piggyback
I heard some stories before about how Ronaldo changed the way Saudis look at Portuguese people and culture. But you can only understand once you step into the country. It was during one afternoon conversation with Nuno Mathias, Ambassador of Portugal in Riyadh, that he told me the "wonders" and privileges of having a Portuguese passport in Saudi Arabia.
"You have VIP access in public services and special treatment by the police. I heard some people did not receive a fine for speeding just because they were Portuguese."
But the real reason is tied to another reason. Ronaldo gave to Saudis what they appreciate: love and understanding for his culture and country. He stayed in Riyadh with his family. He spends most of his time in the country, promoting it. Just like Portuguese, Saudis are very warm: they invite you to their home easily. They love to see foreigners enjoying their country, culture, and food. If you, like Ronaldo, show respect, curiosity, and love for their culture, the doors will be open.
For companies, that means we can strengthen our relationship with the country and work together. There's so much to do! And we have such incredible workforce and expertise in health, technology, and construction. But be aware: do not make the same mistake we did with African countries. Do not go empty-handed, trying to take their money and leave. You must show personal and professional investment in the country. How? Just like Ronaldo: live there. Open a company there. Be part of this new flourishing economy, full of opportunities for those who want to blossom.
Don't know where to start?
If you want to know how to build relations in Saudi Arabia for your business, just reach out. We can help you.
- Ricardo Macedo, Managing Partner at Laika Ventures