Jeddah, February 26, 2025 – The Saudi Aerospace Connect Forum, held under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef, concluded its successful two-day event on February 25. The forum, organized by the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), and Saudia Group, took place at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Jeddah. The event brought together industry leaders, experts, and government officials to discuss and shape the future of the Kingdom’s aerospace and aviation sectors.
Attended by notable figures such as GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej and Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs Eng. Khalil bin Salamah, the forum marked a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia’s ambitions within the global aviation industry. During the two-day event, nine strategic memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed with major global aviation companies, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing its aviation sector and its increasing influence in the global aerospace market.
A key announcement made at the forum was the launch of the Aviation Industries Cluster at Modon Oasis in Jeddah. This initiative aims to localize advanced technologies and strengthen the supply chains that support the aviation sector. The cluster is expected to foster innovation, create high-quality job opportunities for Saudi citizens, and position the Kingdom as a leading hub for aerospace manufacturing and technological development.
Additionally, the forum heralded the issuance of licenses for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities, marking another step forward in Saudi Arabia’s strategy to meet both local and international demand for aviation services. This development underscores the Kingdom’s goal of becoming a key player in the global aerospace ecosystem by ensuring a robust infrastructure for aviation support services.
Throughout the forum, various panel discussions and presentations offered valuable insights into investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia's aviation sector. Topics covered included advanced aircraft component manufacturing, composite materials for aircraft structures, the development and production of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and the manufacturing of titanium and other advanced materials. These discussions highlighted the critical role these industries play in advancing national security, economic growth, and technological innovation.
In line with Saudi Vision 2030, the forum emphasized the importance of building a sustainable, diverse, and high-tech aerospace industry that creates jobs, enhances security, and contributes to the Kingdom’s economic development. By fostering innovation and attracting investment, Saudi Arabia aims to solidify its position as a global leader in the aviation sector.
As the forum concluded, it was reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia would continue to support new investment opportunities, encourage technological advancement, and maintain its efforts to build a resilient and innovative aerospace industry. The forum not only reinforced the Kingdom’s dedication to becoming a global aerospace leader but also laid the groundwork for future growth and development in this critical sector.
