The Distribution and Spatial Suitability of Industrial Cities in the Riyadh Region and their Developmental Role in Achieving the Kingdom’s Vision 2030

The study aimed to analyze the distribution and spatial suitability of industrial cities in the Riyadh region and to investigate the geographical factors affecting their location, highlighting their developmental achieving the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The study employed a combination of analytical and statistical inference methods, supported by research tools, most notably spatial analysis using geographic information systems (ArcGIS). The findings showed that the general pattern of industrial city distribution in the region is clustered. The optimal locations for establishing new industrial cities were also identified within the governorates of Huraymila and Thadig, according to spatial suitability indicators. Simple linear regression analysis also showed a statistically significant relationship between the distribution of industrial cities, population, labor force, and number of factories. The study also revealed clear integration between transport networks (roads and railways) and the locations of industrial cities, which have effectively contributed to achieving the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by localizing promising industries, providing job opportunities, and supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises. The study recommended the need to integrate geographic information system technologies into the planning and siting of future industrial cities, to develop existing cities in line with ongoing changes in the industrial sector, and to establish specialized training institutes to qualify national cadres in administrative and technical fields.