The Balanced Development Conference: 'Studies in Light of the King Salman Economic Vision' organized by King Khalid University and represented by the College of Business launched the activities of the first day. The day was highlighted by the discussion of 6 scientific papers and 4 talks.

The session was chaired by the Deputy Governor of the General Authority for Investment, Dr. Ayed bin Hadi Al-Otaibi. The session witnessed the participation of College of Business Dean, Dr. Fayez bin Dafra, who discussed a paper on the Kingdom's 2030 economic vision and the role of Saudi women on the regional and international level. He concluded his paper through four recommendations:

• Intensive training courses in feasibility studies preparation small business projects;
• Financial planning and strategic methods for successful businesses workshops;
• Prioritizing female businesses and stimulating the role of women in the job market;
• Establishing specialized training departments and units in Chambers of Commerce;
• Shifting the direction of education towards required specialties that meet the need of the labor market.

In his paper, Dr. Mohammad Abu Baker from the University of Taif discussed the impact of investing in human capital on the economy of Saudi Arabia. Dr. Abu Baker referred to the importance of supporting human capital investments in all areas. He also explained the need to re-coordinate training plans to meet the goals and aspirations of the Kingdom.

From King Khalid University, Dr. Khalif Al-Arabie discussed his paper titled 'The Impact of Human Capital in the Development of the Saudi Economy'. A major component of his proposed plans, he explained, is the role of the female sector in the development of the Saudi economy. He also referred to the Saudi vision and the challenges that may face the Saudi economy, human resources, and the direction that must be taken to achieve the national goals and objectives.

The second session was chaired by the Conference Spokesperson and Shura Council Member, Dr. Mohammed Al-Abbas. The session discussed the importance of a balanced economy in the development and growth of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The third session was devoted to the Riyadh Economic Forum and was chaired by the General Supervisor of the Riyadh Economic Forum, Dr. Khalid Al-Rewis. This session included the concept, theories, and literature of the economy, as well as the indicators and diagnosis of the reality of the Saudi economy and the experiences of international markets in implementing a balanced economy.

The fourth session included Dr. Khalid Al-Rewis as chair of the session. Dr. Al-Rewis introduced Dr. Shaker Daref from the Abdelhamid bin Badis Mustaghnim University in Algeria. Dr. Daref discussed the concepts of community partnerships and urban societies and the importance of partnerships in the development of a balanced economy in urban societies. In the same context, Dr. Amani Hussein from King Faisal University presented a paper on the impact of the climate and environment in the contribution of economic development.

The fourth session was concluded by a paper entitled 'Social Challenges that Face a Balanced Economy' delivered by Dr. Abdul Fatah Al-Mesmary from the College of Literature in Libya. Dr. Al-Mesmary discussed a number of main factors that may act as obstacles and challenges to the development and growth of a balanced economy. Dr. Al-Mesmary also referred to the social and economic fields of investments in developing countries.