Middle East Laboratory WSKZ - invitation to expert meeting

The College of Vocational Education invites you to an expert meeting on 15th April 2026. „Saudi Vision 2030 – Between Giga-Projects and Geopolitics”, dedicated to the transformation of the state, economy, and Saudi Arabia's model of influence in the SWANA/MENA region. The online event is part of the „Middle East Laboratory” series, organised by the Institute of Criminology and Internal Security of WSKZ.

Hosting and guests

The meeting will be led by Experts specialising in the Middle East issue and analysis of the socio-political and cultural processes of the region:

• Dr Magdalena El Ghamari, Institute of Criminology and Internal Security, WSKZ, Wrocław.

• Dr Blanka Dżugaj, journalist, orientalist, doctor of humanities, traveller, founder of the Kulturazja service, programme host Unknown Asia.

What will be the focus of the discussion? 

The meeting will focus on Analysis of the assumptions and consequences of „Vision 2030”. This is a strategic programme for the rebuilding of the state, economy, and Saudi Arabia's position on the regional and global stage. The mechanisms of reform and their institutional framework will be discussed. It will also present The significance of such tools as the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in building a state's economic and geopolitical potential.

Particular attention will be paid mega-project, such as NEOM, The Line, New Murabba or Diriyah. The meeting will also address the following issues:

• tensions between social modernisation and political control;
• the role of young society in change processes;
• sustainability of reforms and their potential strategic costs;

How is „Vision 2030” changing security in the region?

The second part of the discussion will cover consequences of „Vision 2030” for regional security and the regional balance of power. With particular reference to:

• Saudi Arabia's relations with Iran;
• the situation in Yemen;
• energy policy (OPEC+);
• new forms of projecting influence (from investment to soft power and sports diplomacy).

Who is the meeting for?

To attend the meeting We invite everyone who wants to better understand the contemporary processes taking place in the Middle East, in particular:

• students;
• academic staff;
• practitioners;
• Individuals interested in geopolitics, security, and regional transformations.

Why take part?

During the meeting, you will get to know an expert analysis of one of the key transformative processes in the modern world. The event will also be an ideal opportunity to deepen knowledge in the field of:

• The dynamics of change in the Middle East;
• geopolitics and security.

Additionally, you will learn about different interpretative perspectives and take part in a discussion with female experts. We warmly invite you to actively participate in the meeting.

Date and format of the event

• Date: 15 April 2026.
• Hour: 18:00
• Form: online meeting