How Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Is Driving a Consulting Gold Rush in the Middle East

The New Demand for Guidance

Vision 2030’s focus on privatization, innovation, and economic diversification has prompted companies to reevaluate how they do business. From family-owned enterprises to regional conglomerates, the pressure is on to align with government priorities and stay competitive. Many don’t have the internal resources or expertise to manage this shift alone.

Enter the consultants.

Business development consultancies — both global players and agile local specialists — are being tapped to help firms pivot. The services in highest demand include digital strategy, market expansion planning, partnership development, and operational restructuring.

Not Just Saudi

This is not a Saudi-only phenomenon. The ripple effects are being felt across the GCC. The UAE has launched its own SME-focused advisory initiatives, and Bahrain is reforming its free zone policies to attract consulting firms that support cross-border growth strategies.

What It Means for the Region

The growth of the consulting sector is a sign of economic maturity. It suggests that governments are creating room for private sector collaboration, and that businesses are ready to invest in long-term transformation.

For consultants — and for the companies that hire them — this moment represents both a challenge and a chance.

Now is the time to lead.

Photo by Irfan Rahat