Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia has announced plans to reform the country's military spending by creating a domestic military industry. This move is part of the broader Saudi Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy away from oil dependency. The prince criticized the current state of military spending and efficiency, comparing it unfavorably to more practical military bases in the U.S. A government-owned holding company will be established and listed on the Saudi Tadawul to facilitate this transition. The goal is to manufacture up to 50 percent of military needs within Saudi Arabia, creating jobs and retaining more resources domestically. The changes, including the appointment of SABIC's CEO to the Saudi Military Industry Corporation, are seen as steps towards this vision. The plan also includes cooperation with regional defense sectors and aims to address challenges such as bureaucracy and access to technology.

Construction companies in Saudi Arabia are facing financial difficulties due to delayed government payments. Despite assurances from Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other officials that payments are being processed and that 70% of delayed dues have been paid, industry insiders express skepticism. Terry Smith from Bluewater Global Advisors and Nagib G. Al-Alam from SATCO have highlighted the severity of the situation, with Al-Alam noting a seven-month period without payments. Companies like Saudi Binladen Group and Arabian Bemco Contracting are expecting further payments in the second half of April, with some already receiving partial payments. The construction sector, heavily reliant on government contracts, is particularly impacted by these delays.

ReAya Holding, a Jeddah-based private equity firm, is planning to acquire majority stakes in three healthcare firms in the current quarter, with two in the United Arab Emirates and one in Saudi Arabia, as stated by CEO Ahmed Emara. The deals are estimated to be worth between $150 million and $200 million. While specific details of the targeted companies were not disclosed, Emara highlighted ReAya's diversification strategy and its existing investments, including a 76 percent stake in Metrek, a 49 percent stake in Zahrawi Medical, and a 25 percent stake in SABA Medical. ReAya is also seeking legal advice to restructure for better efficiency.