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GEOSA President represents Arab States at the UNGEGN meeting.
What This Article Is About & Why It Matters
This article highlights Saudi Arabia’s global leadership in geospatial governance through Dr. Eng. Mohammed Al Sayel’s submission of the Arab States’ report to the UN on behalf of UN-GGIM. It underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to international cooperation, sustainable development, and cultural preservation—values deeply embedded in Vision 2030. Readers will see how Saudi Arabia is shaping global geospatial strategy and safeguarding heritage through innovation and diplomacy.
Saudi Arabia Elevates Geospatial Dialogue
Riyadh, May 2, 2025 – Dr. Eng. Mohammed bin Yahya Al Sayel, President of the General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information (GEOSA) and Chairman of the UN-GGIM Arab States Committee, has submitted the official regional report to the United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names (UNGEGN). The presentation took place during the fourth session of UNGEGN, held at the UN Headquarters in New York from April 28 to May 2.
Representing the Arab States’ commitment to international geospatial progress, Dr. Al Sayel affirmed the committee’s readiness to fully support UNGEGN’s strategic plan through 2029. He also emphasized the vital role of geographical names in preserving cultural heritage and driving sustainable development—key pillars aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
This event marks yet another step in Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership in global geospatial dialogue. Through GEOSA’s active engagement with international platforms, the Kingdom is promoting standardization, cooperation, and data-sharing frameworks that empower nations to manage land, infrastructure, and heritage more effectively.
With a deep respect for history and a forward-looking vision, Saudi Arabia continues to lead not only in physical transformation but also in digital cartography, cultural mapping, and spatial data systems. These advances play a critical role in national planning, economic forecasting, and heritage conservation.
Vision 2030 Alignment
- Advances geospatial integration for sustainable development
- Promotes knowledge exchange on an international scale
- Enhances governance through data and spatial transparency
- Preserves heritage through standardized place naming
Historical Context
Rooted in centuries of geographical knowledge and cartographic tradition, Saudi Arabia has evolved from desert trails to global data maps. Today, GEOSA’s leadership reflects this transformation—uniting history with digital innovation.
International Benchmarks
- Chairmanship of UN-GGIM for the Arab States
- Active engagement with UN statistical and mapping bodies
- Contributor to global spatial development strategies through 2029
Vision 2030 Metrics
- Integration of geospatial systems across all Vision 2030 projects
- Expansion of national spatial databases and land registries
- Regional leadership in GIS training and capacity building
- Launch of over 20 international geospatial cooperation initiatives
Saudi Arabia warmly invites the world to explore its vibrant culture and opportunities.
Through spatial data and cultural preservation, the Kingdom proudly bridges history with technology, inviting the world to engage in shaping a more connected and sustainable future.
3 Helpful Government Links
- www.geosa.gov.sa – GEOSA: Learn about Saudi Arabia’s geospatial systems and mapping projects
- www.vision2030.gov.sa – Vision 2030: Explore the Kingdom’s development roadmap and digital transformation
- www.stats.gov.sa – GASTAT: Access national statistics, geospatial reports, and development indicators
Factbox Summary (50 words)
- May 2, 2025: GEOSA President submits regional report to UN
- Report presented during UNGEGN’s 4th session in New York
- Focused on cultural heritage, sustainable development, and integration
- Supports UN-GGIM strategy through 2029
- Reflects Saudi Arabia’s global role in geospatial innovation
15 Frequently Asked Questions
- What is GEOSA’s role in Saudi Arabia?
GEOSA leads national geospatial efforts, managing maps, land data, and location services to support planning, security, and development. - Who is Dr. Eng. Mohammed Al Sayel?
He is the President of GEOSA and Chair of the UN-GGIM Arab States Committee, representing Saudi leadership in geospatial strategy. - What is the UNGEGN session about?
The session brings global experts together to discuss geographical naming standards and their role in heritage and sustainable development. - Why are geographical names important?
They preserve cultural identity, support planning, and play a critical role in mapping, navigation, and infrastructure development. - What is the UN-GGIM?
The UN Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management promotes the use of spatial data for global development. - How is this connected to Vision 2030?
Vision 2030 emphasizes smart governance and planning—both supported by accurate and integrated geospatial data systems. - What is Saudi Arabia’s contribution to UNGEGN?
Saudi Arabia, through GEOSA, contributes regional insights, supports naming standardization, and advocates for global cooperation in geospatial fields. - What does the strategic plan through 2029 involve?
It includes global collaboration on spatial data standards, heritage preservation, training, and sustainable spatial development. - How does this help non-Saudis?
It supports international mapping standards, encourages knowledge sharing, and invites foreign experts and partners into joint projects. - What makes Saudi Arabia a leader in this field?
Its proactive involvement in international geospatial platforms and investment in smart infrastructure put it at the forefront. - What kind of projects use geospatial data?
Urban planning, NEOM, tourism development, environmental protection, logistics, and emergency services all rely on spatial information. - Is there international cooperation in place?
Yes, Saudi Arabia partners with UN agencies, regional governments, and global institutes to share geospatial expertise. - How does this relate to cultural diplomacy?
Through place naming and mapping, Saudi Arabia preserves its heritage while promoting peaceful collaboration with other nations. - What is the long-term impact of this report?
It strengthens UN–Arab coordination, supports regional mapping standards, and enhances the visibility of Arab geospatial contributions. - How will this influence local planning?
Accurate data helps Saudi regions develop better infrastructure, improve resource management, and align with global sustainability benchmarks.
Discover
Join Saudi Arabia at the forefront of global geospatial transformation—where technology meets heritage and maps guide a sustainable future. Explore how data, cooperation, and identity power the Kingdom’s path under Vision 2030.
With sincere gratitude,
Harry Stuckler
Editor & Publisher, KSA.com
“Bringing Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.”
KSA.com – The leading platform for the Kingdom by 2030.
