Saudi Arabia to Host Human Capability Initiative Conference in Riyadh This May
Saudi Arabia’s Human Capability Development Program has announced the third edition of its flagship Human Capability Initiative conference, scheduled for May 3-4 in Riyadh under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This year’s gathering will feature the United Kingdom as the official country of honor, marking a deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.
The conference, held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, is expected to draw over 15,000 leaders and feature 250 speakers, including policymakers, industry executives, and experts from across sectors. The chosen theme, “The Human Code,” will guide discussions on optimizing learning environments and workplaces to unlock human potential in an era defined by rapid technological change.
Investing in People as Economic Foundation
Yousef bin Abdullah Al-Benyan, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Education and chairman of the HCDP Executive Committee, emphasized that the conference reflects the Kingdom’s enduring commitment to its greatest resource: its people. “Human potential remains the most critical driver of progress in a rapidly changing global landscape,” he stated. “Investing in humans is the most critical pillar in building a competitive economy and a knowledge-based society.”
This focus aligns directly with Saudi Vision 2030, the national blueprint for economic diversification and societal development. By strengthening citizens’ skills and global competitiveness, the HCDP aims to build a workforce capable of leading the Kingdom’s next phase of growth.
A Deepening Saudi-British Partnership
The selection of the United Kingdom as country of honor carries significant weight. Majid Al-Kassabi, Saudi Minister of Commerce and chairman of the Economic and Social Committee of the Saudi-British Strategic Partnership Council, noted that the designation represents “a continuation of the strategic cooperation between our two countries.”
He pointed specifically to the “Skills of the Future” initiative, launched at the 2025 HCI conference, which advances joint efforts in economic cooperation, educational exchange, and workforce development. The UK’s prominent role this year signals continued momentum in this bilateral partnership.
Building on Proven Success
The forthcoming conference builds upon two highly successful previous editions, which together attracted more than 23,000 participants, featured 550 speakers, and resulted in 156 announced partnerships. These outcomes reflect the HCI’s evolution into a major global platform for dialogue on human capability development.
As the May dates approach, Riyadh is preparing to welcome the world once again—not merely to showcase the Kingdom’s progress, but to shape the international conversation on how nations can best prepare their citizens for the challenges and opportunities ahead. In a world increasingly focused on technology, Saudi Arabia’s message remains clear: the most vital investment any country can make is in its people.
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