Saudi Arabia’s City-Ranking Index (SACRI) methodology executed: Preliminary findings

Aim/purpose – Saudi Arabia is rapidly urbanizing, where the number of urban residents, currently exceeds 80% of the population. Many cities in the country face challenges of sustainability, livability, resilience, and thus global reputation. Therefore, measuring city performance is crucial in assessing urban complexity in order to improve development potential. As stated in Vision 2030 of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, attempts at improving the global competitiveness and reputation of cities are of prime importance. This attempt aims at developing a culturally sensitive city ranking methodology, testing the method with relevant statistics, and presenting the preliminary results for further discussions, deliberations, and extensions. Design/methodology/approach – In this context, an index named Saudi Arabia’s City- -Ranking Index (SACRI) was developed, which proposes a three-dimensional assessment, incorporating livability, competitiveness, and environmental sustainability with 58 indicators (widely used or culturally specific). This exercise is carried out in 17 future cities, considering the feasibility criterion. Findings – Riyadh emerged as the most preferred city with the first rank, followed by Jeddah, Dammam, Madina, and Al Baha in order. Najran ranks 17, the last, preceded by Jazan, Al Qatif, Arar, and Al Taif. Research implications/limitations – This ranking of Saudi Arabia’s cities seeks importance in planning, improving, and promoting livability, competitiveness, and environmental sustainability to grab prominent places on a global scale. Originality/value/contribution – This exercise is unique for Saudi Arabia, with specific cultural dimensions that could be replicated in the neighboring Arab countries.