Wadi Jeddah, the investment arm of King Abdulaziz University, has unveiled a series of strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering Saudi Arabia’s knowledge-based economy and innovation ecosystem. The announcements, made during the Biban 2025 forum, include a landmark partnership with the Cambridge Innovation Center and plans for a new entrepreneurship complex in Jeddah.
Speaking at the event, Eng. Abdulrahman Badahdah, General Manager of Investment at Wadi Jeddah, highlighted the company’s pivotal role in the Kingdom’s technology sector. “Biban represents a vital platform, and Wadi Jeddah is a pivotal player in the technology and innovation sector,” he stated. “This drives the company to translate its role into tangible projects.”
A New Hub For Innovation On Campus
A cornerstone of Wadi Jeddah’s new strategy is the establishment of a dedicated complex for entrepreneurship and innovation, slated to open by the end of the year. The hub will be strategically located on the King Abdulaziz University campus, creating an integrated environment for aspiring entrepreneurs.
According to Badahdah, the complex will host specialized workshops and programs designed to foster collaboration. The primary goal is to help founders transform innovative technical ideas into successful and sustainable startups, leveraging strategic partnerships with local and international entities.
Forging Strategic Alliances
To ensure the new hub operates according to global best practices, Wadi Jeddah has signed a significant cooperation agreement with the Cambridge Innovation Center. This partnership aims to position the new complex as a premier destination for both entrepreneurs and investors in the region.
In addition to its global outreach, Wadi Jeddah is strengthening local ties. The company also announced a partnership with the Jeddah Municipality to integrate technological innovations into urban services and support the city’s development. This collaboration between an academic investment arm and a government service entity underscores a commitment to driving tangible, positive impact through entrepreneurship.
Driving Sustainability and Vision 2030
Beyond direct ecosystem support, Badahdah noted that Wadi Jeddah is actively working on projects to enhance its own financial sustainability. These initiatives aim to serve both the university and the wider Jeddah community, ensuring the company can continue providing long-term, high-quality support for the innovation environment.
These efforts are fundamental to the company’s ability to support the ambitious national goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, reinforcing financial stability as the bedrock for sustained innovation.
About Wadi Jeddah
Wadi Jeddah is the investment arm of King Abdulaziz University in Saudi Arabia. It was established to actively contribute to the development of the knowledge economy by investing in and supporting technology-based startups and innovation projects that emerge from the university and the broader community.
Source: Rowad Al A’amal
