Saudi Arabia’s industry development creating great opportunities, say experts at trade show

1 / 2
Attendees visit the exhibition booths at Riyadh International Industry Week 2025. (AN Photo)
2 / 2
Attendees visit the exhibition booths at Riyadh International Industry Week 2025. (AN Photo)
Short Url
Updated 15 May 2025
Follow

Saudi Arabia’s industry development creating great opportunities, say experts at trade show

  • Kingdom providing incentives for foreign investment
  • Vision 2030 plan, football World Cup 2034 highlighted

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s development and adoption of modern technology was creating significant opportunities for foreign investment and economic growth, experts in the industrial and logistics sectors told Arab News on Thursday at the Riyadh International Industry Week 2025.

The RIIW25, which ends today, featured four industrial trade shows: Saudi Plastics and Petrochemicals, Saudi Printing and Packaging, Smart Manufacturing, and Saudi Smart Logistics.

Kevin Lang, general manager at China Bentae Industry Group, praised Saudi Arabia’s government for attracting and establishing factories within the Kingdom, emphasizing that such steps provide strong incentives for foreign investment in the industrial sector.

Participating in the event for the second time, Lang noted a surge in the presence of Chinese and international companies in the Saudi market, which he said was a sign of growing investor confidence in the Kingdom.

“We aim to leverage Saudi Arabia’s push for economic openness and its efforts to attract foreign investment. We see significant growth potential, particularly in sectors that align with Vision 2030, such as industry and sustainability,” Lang said.

Lafi Al-Dhafiri, commercial director at Alkharj Steel Co., said the show was an exceptional platform for bringing together global expertise, forming partnerships and shaping the future of the sector.

“The event highlighted the promising opportunities within the Saudi industrial sector, especially in light of the unprecedented government support that aligns with the goals of Vision 2030,” Al-Dhafiri added.

Ahmed Sobhi Badran, sales manager at Derbn Trading Co., noted the emergence of Saudi brands that are increasingly positioning themselves on the global stage.

“The exhibitions feature a strong presence of international companies seeking to strengthen their foothold in the Saudi market, creating a healthy competitive environment driven by quality standards and marketing excellence.”

Ratheesh NS, deputy manager at Windsor Machines Ltd., said the company was eager to explore business opportunities in the Kingdom.

“We are looking forward to the vast opportunities in Saudi Arabia, driven by its vibrant transformation under Saudi Vision 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034,” he said.

“We are confident that this market boom will help us explore and engage with this ambitious region.”

Fahad Al-Thenayan, a logistics advisor, said the event was “a great opportunity for visitors to explore a wide range of innovative solutions.”


Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

Updated 10 January 2026
Follow

Citrus festival highlights AlUla’s heritage, economy

  • The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16

ALULA: The AlUla Citrus Festival has seen a remarkable turnout of residents and visitors as it has coincided with the mid-year school break, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The festival is being held at the farmers’ market in the cultural oasis, amid an environment that blends stunning natural beauty with the governorate's rich agricultural heritage.

The rise in visitor numbers reflects the festival’s prominence as a major agricultural and community event. It runs until Jan. 16.

It allows visitors to explore local products and purchase citrus fruits directly from farmers, highlighting the deep connection between the people, their land, and agricultural legacy.

The festival showcases a diverse selection of AlUla’s finest citrus fruits, alongside platforms for local producers, the SPA added.

The event also features interactive family-friendly activities and live cooking demonstrations.

It contributes to revitalizing agricultural economic activity and reinforces agricultural seasons as a pillar of sustainable development in the governorate.

The AlUla Citrus Festival is a key social and economic event and gives local farmers a vital platform to showcase and sell their produce, supporting the agricultural economy of a governorate home to nearly 5,000 productive farms.