The Adnan's question: Why USA leads innovation and not Saudi Arabia?

The balmy October breeze in Riyadh hinted at tranquility, gently playing with the fabrics of the café’s awnings. As he sipped on his evening tea, Adnan invited me to join him to discuss innovation. What I anticipated to be an exchange turned to be an occasion for this seasoned professional to ask me some of the deepest questions about my field since I relocated to Saudi Arabia 15 months ago.

Amid the soft hum of Riyadh's evening life, Adnan shot a curious glance my way. "Having seen innovation from North America to the vibrant South East Asia, how do you perceive its course here in Saudi Arabia? Can KSA’s innovation journey be shaped after the successful USA model?”

His question took me down memory lane, to the pages of Jared Diamond’s Guns, Germs, and Steel. It wasn't so much about the historical trajectories Diamond discussed but the underlying principle: environments shape societies.

1. The Environmental Blueprint: From Diamond to Riyadh

"Diamond’s theory," I started, "emphasized that societies evolved differently based on their geographical and environmental circumstances. Regions blessed with easily domesticated plants and animals had a head-start, leading to the rise of advanced societies."

Drawing parallels, I continued, "The innovation ecosystem is much like those nascent civilizations. They need the right ingredients to flourish. Just as fertile lands gave certain societies an edge, a nurturing environment, conducive policies, and a culture of acceptance can accelerate innovation."

2. Beyond Words: The High Context Culture

The very essence of Saudi Arabia's culture can be traced back to its High Context Culture (HCC). Here, actions often speak louder than words, and social cues are wrapped in layers of traditions, shared histories, and unwritten norms.

3. The West and the Rest

While reflecting upon my 20 years in Montréal, I shared tales of countless startup stories that idolized the rugged individualism of the 'self-made' entrepreneur. The American Dream, so to speak. "But in Vietnam," I continued, "success narratives often celebrated a collective effort. Families, communities, and even ancestral blessings play a pivotal role."

I that sense, I think Saudi Arabia is closer to Asians than Westerns.

As we dived deeper into the discourse, I recalled a project in Southeast Asia. There, innovation thrived not on competition but on communal harmony.

"In Silicon Valley, there's a race, a constant chase. But in places like Vietnam or here in Saudi Arabia, it's the rhythm of togetherness, of shared goals and dreams, that fuels innovation."

4. Geography's Hand in Innovation

Just as Diamond underscored the role of geographic luck in a civilization's development, regions like Silicon Valley benefited from a confluence of academia, venture capital, and a culture of risk-taking. "But," I pondered aloud to Adnan, "regions like Saudi or Vietnam bring their own unique strengths, often rooted in communal bonds and shared aspirations."

As our conversation wound down, it became evident for Adnan that while some regions might have had a head start in the innovation race due to their unique ecosystem advantages, places like Riyadh, with their distinct cultural and societal imprints, are crafting their own narrative.

5. The Role of Past Conquests in Present-Day Innovation

Just as Diamond highlighted the momentum that past successes offered to certain civilizations, modern innovation ecosystems benefit from their historical triumphs. "Think about how Silicon Valley leans heavily on its past wins like the creation of the microprocessor or the rise of the internet giants," I mused. "Such milestones not only serve as benchmarks but also as inspirations for the next wave of innovators."

Adnan nodded, adding, "Similarly, in our Arabian history, the silk road and the Nabataean caravans. Although it represents a bygone era, it's a testament to our potential and the heights we can achieve."

6. Barriers, Not Limitations: Navigating the Innovation Terrain

Diamond's exploration of natural barriers, like the vast Sahara Desert or the formidable Andes Mountains, which hindered interaction and exchange among communities, can be likened to the challenges modern innovators face."Innovation, in any geography, is never without its challenges," I shared.

"Whether it's policy restrictions, cultural hesitations, or resource limitations, innovators must navigate these terrains, much like ancient societies negotiated their geographical barriers."

7. Tapping into the Pulse of Cultural Evolution

I then dwelled upon how Diamond accentuated the interplay of technological and social evolution in shaping societies. "Much like how the invention of the printing press transformed Europe, the current digital revolution is reshaping societies globally. Yet, its adoption and impact vary. In Riyadh, the merging of age-old traditions with modern tech provides a rich tapestry for innovation, offering possibilities that are uniquely Arabian."

The intricate weave of societal norms, traditions, and communication patterns makes each region's innovation ecosystem unique. America's innovation story, influenced by its individualistic pursuits and geographical luck, might not fit snugly into the Saudi narrative.

By the time our teacups were empty, Adnan seemed contemplative, absorbing the essence of our discussion. Riyadh, with its rich history and emerging future, was on a path to crafting its own, distinct tale of innovation. One rooted in its culture, values, and shared dreams.

I'm glad to be part of this journey and conscious that the 60+ innovation management techniques and tools I used in my career will have to be combined with this type of discussion to build the Saudi Arabia ecosystem bedrock of the future innovation model of Middle East.