In a move reflecting its growing role on the international stage, Saudi Arabia presented its ambitious vision for the future of the industrial sector, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to supporting a sustainable and innovation-driven global industrial future. This came during its active participation in a special session of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) entitled “Vision 2050,” held as part of the Global Manufacturing and Industrialisation Summit in Riyadh.
Representing the Kingdom at this high-level session was the Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs, Engineer Khalil bin Ibrahim bin Salma, who provided a comprehensive overview of the transformation journey that the Saudi industrial sector is undergoing, which is a key pillar in achieving the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
General context: Industrial transformation as part of Vision 2030
This move comes as part of the Kingdom’s National Industrial Strategy, a roadmap for diversifying the economic base and reducing dependence on oil. The strategy aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a leading industrial power and a global logistics hub by focusing on 12 promising industrial sectors and attracting quality investments exceeding one trillion Saudi riyals. This vision is based on empowering the private sector, developing infrastructure, investing in human capital, and adopting Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
During the session titled “Preparing for the Future of Manufacturing,” Engineer Ibn Salma emphasized that the world stands at a critical juncture requiring bold decisions, particularly to enable developing countries to achieve developmental leaps. He explained that “future competitiveness must stem from innovation and advanced technologies, and from the ability to adopt green industrial pathways that protect both prosperity and the planet.” He noted that the Kingdom is investing heavily in research and development systems and strengthening local supply chains to ensure sustainable industrial growth that leaves no one behind.
Domestically, this approach fosters the creation of high-quality jobs for Saudi youth, supports the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and solidifies the Kingdom's position as an attractive environment for global investment. Regionally, the success of the Saudi model in industrial transformation will inspire other countries in the region to adopt similar policies, thereby enhancing economic integration and creating more resilient regional value chains. Internationally, the Kingdom stands out as a reliable partner in ensuring the stability of global supply chains and an active contributor to international efforts to combat climate change through initiatives such as "Green Saudi Arabia" and its focus on low-carbon industries.
A global vision for the future of industry
The session witnessed the launch of the UNIDO Industrial Development Report 2026, which called for the adoption of comprehensive industrial strategies that integrate economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The Kingdom's hosting of this global summit, and the accompanying in-depth discussions, reflect the international community's confidence in its vision and its growing role in shaping the future of industrial policies worldwide, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development for all.
