Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh is more resilient than other cities around the world, despite its low population density and arid conditions, according to a survey by insurer Lloyd’s.

The speed and scale of the kingdom’s economic reforms, including its diversification from oil towards a mixed services economy, and a series of initiatives such as new smart city programmes and the construction of a metro network, have contributed to the city’s resilience, the study found.

“With solid investment in public transport and smart city initiatives, the city is well positioned to manage its explosive population growth,” said Andrew Woodward, the insurer’s regional manager for the Middle East and Turkey.

+INFO: The National News