09/24/2025
Saudi Arabia’s Transformation: A Personal Journey Across the Kingdom
My journey with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia began in 2011, during the reign of the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, may he rest in peace. My first visit was for a pilgrimage with my beloved mother. After completing Umrah, we stayed several weeks to visit family and friends who lived in the Kingdom.
During that time, my cousin Murad bin Mahmoud, may he rest in peace, took me across cities and historical sites, introducing me to the Kingdom’s culture, hospitality, and beauty. Even then, I was struck by the strength of its economy and infrastructure. Returning to the United States, I often found myself praising Saudi Arabia as one of the most modern and beautiful nations in the region.
After the pandemic, my cousin encouraged me to return. Beginning in 2021, I resumed traveling to Saudi Arabia nearly every year. By then, the Kingdom was under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, may he be blessed, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, may he be blessed.
From the moment I landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, I was struck by the visible transformation. Each city I visited revealed more growth, new neighborhoods, modern infrastructure, and thriving tourism. The Kingdom I had known in 2011 had evolved dramatically.
Over the years, I have journeyed from North to South, and East to West, visiting Mecca, Jeddah, Taif, Al-Hada, Madinah, Riyadh, Abha, Umluj, Dammam, and many more cities and villages.
I explored mountains, deserts, and historical sites, swam at the Kingdom’s beaches, and immersed myself in the Red Sea. Each experience deepened my appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Truly, I enjoyed every moment of it.
Since then, I have always encouraged and advised many people to visit the Kingdom, whether for its long history, cultural heritage, or traditions. Today, Saudi Arabia offers many tourism programs that allow visitors to experience its beauty firsthand.
My love for Saudi Arabia is tied deeply to my cousin Murad. He was like an older brother, guiding me through the Kingdom, ensuring I experienced its finest treasures, and teaching me to see the country as he did, with pride and love. Even after his passing, the passion he instilled in me remains, and every visit is a tribute to his memory.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has proven himself to be a leader with a bold vision. Under his guidance, Saudi Arabia has advanced in nearly every sector: infrastructure, economy, tourism, and modernization. His leadership has reshaped the nation into one of comfort, stability, and prosperity for its people.
While some may not agree with his political actions or views in the Arab region, the key point is what he has done inside his country, transforming Saudi Arabia from what it used to be into a thriving, modern, and respected nation.
And here is the truth: there is no difference between Yemen and the Kingdom when it comes to natural potential. Yemen is blessed with one of the strongest trade locations in the world, rich ports, oil, natural gas, minerals, and more. What Yemen lacks, however, is leadership with vision. If our leaders had the foresight and determination of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Yemen could have been as prosperous as the Gulf states. There are no excuses.
Today, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia holds a competitive position on the international stage, particularly in infrastructure, the economy, and tourism. While the United States continues to be a land of freedom, democracy, and progress in all fields, the historic transformation underway in Saudi Arabia under the leadership of the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
His Vision 2030 is not just a national plan, but a blueprint for progress, innovation, and long-term prosperity.
It is undeniable: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has made history in the Arab world. His leadership has propelled Saudi Arabia into a new era of growth and influence.
I pray that Allah blesses the leaders and people of Saudi Arabia. I also pray that one day Yemen will have leaders who care for their people with the same dedication, building a nation grounded in peace, prosperity, and dignity.
May Allah protect every leader who governs with justice and compassion. And may He bring peace, unity, and love to all nations.
As September 23rd, Saudi National Day arrives, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Kingdom, its leadership, and its people.
Happy Saudi National Day!
May Saudi Arabia continue to flourish with unity, strength, and prosperity.
Khalil Refai
F/ Mayor Pro-Tem
City of Hamtramck
Ministry of Tourism | وزارة السياحة
SAUDIA AIRLINES الخطوط السعودية
Saudi Arabia Ministry of Hajj & Umrah
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Washington DC
وزارة الإعلام
وزارة الخارجية - المملكة العربية السعودية
