Bloom Consulting’s recent expansion into Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of Iman Almutairi, represents a significant advancement in City Branding and Place Branding efforts in the country.
In this exclusive interview with Jose and Iman, we explore the vision for Bloom Consulting in Saudi Arabia and the transformative impact it aims to have on Saudi Arabia’s Place Branding scene. Join us as we uncover the driving forces behind this exciting venture and discover its promising future for the country and beyond.
Why Riyadh?
Jose:
Bloom Consulting has been working with Saudi Arabia for some time now. My first visit to the country was in 2016, during the early stages of Vision 2030. In 2020, Bloom Consulting had the opportunity to work on the Riyadh City Brand project. During this time, we also engaged in projects in various regions and cities like Soudah and Madinah. Throughout this journey, I had the privilege of meeting many prominent people.
What captivated me the most was the rapid development and significant transformation the country was undergoing. The enthusiasm and dynamism displayed by the people during this process were truly remarkable. It became evident to me that Bloom Consulting would eventually need to establish an office in Riyadh to further support our work in this vast country.
How did you meet and why did you decide to start your operations in Riyadh?
Iman:
I first met Jose in 2017 at the City Place Nation forum in London, where he introduced me to Bloom Consulting. I was impressed by the methodology and strategic approach used by Bloom Consulting to define the Central Idea for Places and Cities. After learning about their global projects, we decided to bring Bloom Consulting to Saudi Arabia through a partnership with Destination Consultancy, which exclusively represents Bloom Consulting’s office in the region, especially considering the significant initiatives underway in Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030.
Jose:
Iman was one of the notable individuals I had the pleasure of collaborating with during my visits to Saudi Arabia. Recognizing the need for Saudi Arabia’s cities, regions and the country as a whole to focus on Nation Branding, City Branding, and Region Branding, we decided to establish this office together based on our shared expertise and vision, and connections in the field.
Why is it important for Saudi Arabia to have an international company represented in the region?
Iman:
The combination of global expertise and local knowledge is crucial for the success of national projects. By leveraging Bloom Consulting’s expertise in Nation Branding, City Branding, and Place Branding along with Destination’s understanding of the local culture, these strategies can be implemented more efficiently and effectively at both strategic and operational levels.
Jose, what is your perspective on this?
Jose:
I believe it is vital for the cities of Saudi Arabia, especially as they aim to engage with international markets. Bloom Consulting can bring its extensive experience and expertise to the region and the country. With over 20 years of experience in Nation Branding we are dedicated to supporting Saudi Arabia’s aspirations in this field.
What services will the Bloom Consulting Riyadh office offer?
Jose:
The Bloom Consulting Riyadh office will provide services related to Nation Branding and Place Branding, Placemaking and Tourism Development, including Place Analytics.
Iman, can you tell us more about your vision of Bloom Consulting Riyadh office?
Iman:
We will ensure that our strategies are implemented in close coordination with clients. Our vision is to elevate Cities and Places in Saudi Arabia to a global platform in terms of attracting tourists, attracting investments, promoting exports of products and culture, and drawing talent by showcasing the exceptional quality of life in Saudi Arabia.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Jose:
We are thrilled to welcome Saudi Arabia into the Bloom Consulting family, as it brings valuable expertise and cultural insights. This is a very important cooperation as it is our first Arabic-speaking office. Given the region’s remarkable transformation, we believe we are well-positioned to make a positive impact. “Ahlan wa sahlan” (Welcome) to the Bloom Consulting team, Iman!
Iman:
Thank you! I am excited about the successful outcome that Bloom Consulting will achieve in Saudi Arabia!
