GE Saudi Arabia has earned top recognition for its all-round performance and the team’s commitment to strengthen in-country partnerships, drive localized innovation and boost Saudization.

This follows the launch of a number of long-term initiatives by GE to support its Saudi partners in achieving stronger operational efficiency and productivity under its Saudi 2020 Sustainability program.

Hisham Bahkali, GE’s president & CEO for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, received the Chairman’s Award from GE Chairman & CEO Jeffrey Immelt on behalf of the entire GE Saudi team at the recently held annual GE Global Leadership Meeting.

Bahkali said: “The award is a testament to our successful operations in the Kingdom in 2015. Our commitment to introducing digital industrial technology, investing in localized manufacturing, promoting home-grown innovation and strengthening Saudization reflects the government’s vision to enhance the role of the private sector in driving all-round growth.”

“Our investment in localized manufacturing for Made in Saudi products has helped create a dynamic local supply chain that supports local SMEs, creates new jobs for Saudis and promotes exports.”

Among GE’s milestones in 2015 was the Saudi GE Technology & Innovation Center in Dhahran Techno Valley joining the family of GE’s global research centers.

GE Oil & Gas also marked the first phase expansion of its pressure control facility in Dammam. The facility has expanded its work force three-fold and achieved 70 percent Saudization.

GE Power added value to the 1,300 MW Wad Al-Shamal power plant of Saudi Electricity Company with the planned delivery of heavy duty gas turbines.

GE’s Saudi 2020 Sustainability Program aims to double its work force to 4,000 by 2020; double its Saudi supplier base from 150 to 300 to strengthen the Saudi supply chain; and double training offered in energy, health care, and localized research to cover 10,000 Saudi professionals.