Advanced Manufacturing Cooperation took center stage as Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, held bilateral meetings with leaders of regional and global companies on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos, Switzerland. The discussions focused on enhancing industrial collaboration and exploring mutual opportunities in advanced manufacturing and the iron and steel industry.
Strategic Partnerships in Industrial Automation
During a meeting with Dr. Peter Koerte, Chief Technology Officer of Siemens, Minister Al-Khorayef discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in industrial automation solutions and digital transformation. The minister presented the Kingdom’s vision for enabling smart industrial transformation in small and medium enterprises through the “Future Factories Program,” aimed at accelerating the adoption of advanced industrial technologies and energy efficiency solutions that support national targets.
Advancing the Iron and Steel Sector
Minister Al-Khorayef met with Engineer Ahmed Ezz, Chairman and Founder of Ezz Steel, to discuss the future of the iron and steel industry in the Middle East and North Africa region. The discussions explored shared opportunities in this vital sector, with a focus on enhancing the sustainability of regional supply chains. This meeting underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening its position as a regional industrial hub.
Expanding Logistics Infrastructure
In a bilateral meeting with Henadi Al-Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Agility, the company’s existing investments in the Kingdom and future expansion plans were reviewed. These initiatives contribute to reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics platform, supporting the Kingdom’s economic diversification goals under Vision 2030.
Future Outlook for Industrial Development
The meetings at Davos 2026 reflect Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to building international partnerships in Advanced Manufacturing Cooperation and industrial innovation. By engaging with technology leaders like Siemens and industry pioneers in steel production, the Kingdom is positioning itself at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. These collaborations are expected to accelerate technology transfer, create high-value jobs, and establish Saudi Arabia as a competitive manufacturing destination in the global market.
