Saudi Arabia’s EV auto show kicks off with major fleet decarbonization agreements

Saudi Arabia’s EV auto show kicks off with major fleet decarbonization agreements
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Several agreements were signed on the sidelines of the Riyadh EV Auto 2024 in Saudi Arabia. AN Photo
Saudi Arabia’s EV auto show kicks off with major fleet decarbonization agreements
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Several agreements were signed on the sidelines of the Riyadh EV Auto 2024 in Saudi Arabia. AN Photo
Saudi Arabia’s EV auto show kicks off with major fleet decarbonization agreements
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Several agreements were signed on the sidelines of the Riyadh EV Auto 2024 in Saudi Arabia. AN Photo
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Updated 08 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s EV auto show kicks off with major fleet decarbonization agreements

Saudi Arabia’s EV auto show kicks off with major fleet decarbonization agreements
  • J&T Express Middle East signed agreement with Saudi National Transportation Solutions Co. to embark on its fleet decarbonization journey
  • Rotana Waterfront has partnered with Electromin to enhance EV infrastructure in Jeddah

RIYADH: The first day of the Riyadh EV Auto Show saw significant progress in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward sustainable transport, with major fleet decarbonization agreements being signed. 

The event brought together industry leaders to showcase their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing green technology.

Riyadh-based logistics services company J&T Express Middle East was among the first to make an announcement, signing an agreement with the Saudi National Transportation Solutions Company to embark on its fleet decarbonization journey. 

As a concrete step toward this goal, J&T Express is taking delivery of 10 electric vans to support their logistics needs. This transition to electric vehicles underscores the company’s dedication to sustainability and aligns with the Kingdom’s larger vision of environmental responsibility and reducing the carbon footprint in the logistics sector.

Saudi Bulk Transfer, a leading player in the transportation sector, has also committed to a multi-year decarbonization roadmap in partnership with NTSC and Jeddah-based smart mobility solutions provider Electromin. 

As part of this ambitious plan, SBT is initially taking delivery of four electric trucks, marking the beginning of a larger fleet transformation. This highlights the growing trend of electrification in the heavy transport sector.

Rotana Waterfront has partnered with Electromin to enhance EV infrastructure in Jeddah. This agreement encompasses the ownership, installation, operation, and maintenance of public EV chargers at the Jeddah Corniche Waterfront development.

The initiative signifies an important step in expanding the accessibility of electric vehicle charging stations in key urban areas, supporting the Kingdom’s push toward a more sustainable future.

These initiatives come at a time when Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in promoting electric mobility, as highlighted by recent government policies and investment in EV infrastructure. 

The Kingdom is actively working to reduce its carbon emissions and achieve a more sustainable future. The push for electric vehicles is a key component of this strategy, with the Kingdom aiming to have 30 percent of all vehicles in Riyadh electric by 2030. 

This aligns with the broader goals of Vision 2030, which include reducing dependency on oil and promoting environmental sustainability.

The agreements signed by J&T Express Middle East, SBT, and Rotana Waterfront and Electromin, signal a growing momentum in the adoption of electric vehicles for commercial and public use. 

The shift toward electrification in logistics, transportation, and public infrastructure marks a significant step in the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices.

As Saudi Arabia continues to advance its electric mobility initiatives, the commitments made at the Riyadh EV Auto Show and partnerships, like the one between Rotana Waterfront and Electromin, represent crucial steps in achieving a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.


Saudi Arabia aims for global logistics hub status by 2030 with tech Investments 

Saudi Arabia aims for global logistics hub status by 2030 with tech Investments 
Updated 6 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia aims for global logistics hub status by 2030 with tech Investments 

Saudi Arabia aims for global logistics hub status by 2030 with tech Investments 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is focusing on innovative, tech-backed investments in its logistics sector as part of its Vision 2030 strategy, said an assistant minister. 

Speaking at the Global Logistics Forum, Abdullah Al-Dubaikhi, assistant minister at the Ministry of Investment, highlighted the Kingdom’s efforts to train a workforce capable of adapting to the sector’s technological advancements. 

Saudi Arabia’s National Logistics Strategy aims to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub by 2030, increasing the sector’s contribution to gross domestic product from 6 percent to 10 percent. 

“We would like to encourage unique types of investments. We would like to have something with innovation. If someone would like to come and build a normal warehouse, it will not help because we have plenty of them. But if someone like Maersk who built a 100 percent robotics warehouse in Jeddah, that is the kind of investment we are looking for,” said Al-Dubaikhi. 

He emphasized the need for smart warehouses and skilled professionals. “Hiring 10 software engineers in a house running the robotics is better than hiring 1,000 unskilled laborers,” he added. 

Al-Dubaikhi underscored the importance of encouraging training and development, noting that this new era requires people to be trained in innovative formats. “Research and development is also very important. What we are promoting is unique projects to upscale the sector.”  

He also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships, noting that Saudi ports are now fully operated by the private sector, a shift from 15 years ago when they were managed by the Saudi Ports Authority, or MAWANI. 

“We are promoting public-private partnerships. This is very important for us and on a large scale. Madinah airport is an example,” said Al-Dubaikhi. 

Global logistics hub 

Al-Dubaikhi pointed out Saudi Arabia’s strategic geographical location, which gives it access to the east, west, south, and north, positioning the Kingdom as a global logistics hub.   

He outlined several key factors that will determine Saudi Arabia’s journey to become a world-class logistics destination.  

“Global logistics hubs are built around sea ports. There are 12 success factors of global hubs, which include location, quality of infrastructure, efficient operations, technology, regulation, and connectivity. In Saudi Arabia, Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdullah Port are selected as the seaports or the focal points of Saudi Arabia, and they are the primary logistics hubs,” said Al-Dubaikhi. 

He added: “If we are trying to become a global logistics hub by 2030, who are we competing with? We are competing with 30 global hubs around the world, such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Los Angeles, and so on.” 

The assistant minister added that the presence of logistics zones in the country is also pivotal to affirming the position of Saudi Arabia in the global logistics map.  

Foreign investors 

The minister welcomed foreign investors, noting that Saudi Arabia offers a favorable regulatory environment for businesses. “We would like to make the investor journey fast, fruitful and smooth. We allow 100 percent ownership for foreign investors, not in all sectors of course, but we have a little restrictions in some sectors due to some reasons,” he said. 

Foreign investors can set up operations quickly, with formalities completed within three hours upon submission of required documents, Al-Dubaikhi added. 

In a separate speech, Rayan Al-Bakri, deputy minister at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Transport and Logistics, stated that the Kingdom aims to integrate all stakeholders and entities in the sector under one umbrella to facilitate a smoother journey. 

“The vision is to become a hub of choice. To become a hub of choice, we have to work on multiple areas: from regulatory access to reform processes and infrastructure, along with a proper competitive environment for companies and the private sector to come, invest, and choose us as a hub,” said Al-Bakri. 

He added: “The ministry looks at integrating all stakeholders and entities under the umbrella of transport and logistics in one place, where we create convenience for the journey of goods across all modes of transport. That is the aim.” 

Promoting innovation  

Suliman Al-Mazroua, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s National Industrial Development and Logistics Program, also spoke at the forum, stressing that the future of supply chains will be shaped by advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven approaches. 

“The future of supply chain is nothing short of revolutionary. Over the next decade, we are headed toward an interconnected resilience and a sustainable global system powered by AI, automation and data-driven approach. This will change how we operate, delivering faster, cleaner and more personalized solutions for businesses and consumers everywhere,” said Al-Mazroua.  

He also emphasized the importance of responsible investments in ensuring sustainability and tackling future supply chain disruptions. 

“As the world becomes more interconnected, supply chains will face more disruptions, whether from climate change, geopolitical tensions, or even something like another Suez Canal incident. To thrive, we need to prioritize circular economies, diversify suppliers, and adopt predictive analytical tools for scenario planning to stay ahead of any potential risks,” said Al-Mazroua. 

He noted that Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Transportation and Logistic Services is partnering with New Lab to establish an innovation institute for logistics, aimed at fostering growth in the Kingdom's logistics sector. 


Green practices in logistics offer profit, efficiency amid disruptions, says Al-Jubeir

 Green practices in logistics offer profit, efficiency amid disruptions, says Al-Jubeir
Updated 13 October 2024
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Green practices in logistics offer profit, efficiency amid disruptions, says Al-Jubeir

 Green practices in logistics offer profit, efficiency amid disruptions, says Al-Jubeir

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing an environmentally friendly logistics sector was highlighted by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Climate Envoy Adel Al-Jubeir during a fireside chat at the Global Logistics Forum in Riyadh.

Al-Jubeir outlined the substantial advantages of adopting green practices in logistics, stating, “Being green is profitable. Being environmentally friendly can be extremely lucrative. There’s often confusion stemming from the emotional discussions surrounding climate change; people conflate these emotions with reality. The reality is that investing in renewable energy is highly profitable.”

He also pointed out the efficiency of alternative energy sources, noting, “Ships powered by hydrogen and other alternative fuels are more efficient.” He acknowledged the growing pressure on countries to embrace sustainable practices but reassured that the shift toward environmental responsibility is beneficial because “it pays.”

According to a report by McKinsey & Co., the global green logistics industry is projected to grow significantly from $50 billion in 2025—about 2 percent of total logistics spending—to $350 billion by 2030, representing 15 percent of the broader sector.

A report from SAP, a German multinational software company, further supports this trend, indicating that green logistics enhances long-term profitability. “While initial investments are necessary to realize the benefits of green logistics, the long-term gains far exceed the costs,” the report stated.

Al-Jubeir concluded by underscoring the importance of efficiency in the logistics sector, emphasizing its critical role in achieving success in a competitive global marketplace.

“Efficiency is critical. The saying goes, ‘the future belongs to the efficient,’” stated Al-Jubeir, emphasizing that a company's ability to produce, package, transport, and market goods efficiently directly influences its sales performance.

He underscored the importance of optimizing every aspect of the logistics process, from the efficiency of ships and ports to the speed of loading and unloading containers and delivering goods to consumers. “Companies will become more efficient because that drives profit,” he added, linking operational efficiency to both commercial success and environmental sustainability.

Al-Jubeir also highlighted a global trend toward increased integration. While acknowledging potential conflicts at the micro level between specific countries or sectors, he stressed that the overarching historical trajectory is one of growing interconnectedness. “The world is more connected today than it ever has been, and it will continue to be as we move forward,” he asserted.

Despite the turbulence accompanying major transitions, such as the current shift from the information age to a post-information era, he expressed confidence in humanity’s capacity to adapt and solve problems. He pointed out that, throughout history, societies have consistently managed to progress despite disagreements and challenges.

Moreover, Al-Jubeir emphasized the importance of embracing diversity and cooperation in a multicultural world. He argued that shared universal values should foster mutual respect rather than the imposition of values on others.

In discussions surrounding trade and multilateral issues, he noted that disagreements often arise from a focus on competition rather than collaboration. “We need to focus on the problem and find solutions,” he said, expressing optimism that with the right technology, capital, and collective effort, the global community is well-equipped to tackle its challenges.

In another panel titled “The Resilience of Logistics Services in the Face of Disruption in the Red Sea,” top officials addressed the impacts of instability in one of the world’s most crucial maritime routes.

Rumaih Al-Rumaih, vice minister of transport and logistic services, underscored the importance of resilience in global trade routes, especially in light of recent disruptions in the Red Sea.

“The Red Sea is one of the main arteries for global trade,” Al-Rumaih explained, noting that disruptions in this vital route can have significant local, regional, and global repercussions. He highlighted the rise in maritime freight costs and the extended travel times as vessels are forced to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, which can add up to 15 days to their journeys.

Reflecting on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, Al-Rumaih stated: “We should not take things for granted,” emphasizing that the Kingdom is now better equipped to handle such disruptions. He also discussed Saudi Arabia’s initiatives to diversify its logistics and transport networks to reduce reliance on any single route.

He pointed to the increased utilization of Gulf ports during the Red Sea disruptions and emphasized the Kingdom’s robust road and rail connectivity, which has played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of these challenges.

Osama Rabiee, chairman and managing director of the Suez Canal Authority, echoed concerns regarding significant disruptions faced by the canal. He reported that delays in shipments and rerouted vessels have caused Suez Canal revenues to drop from $9.4 billion last year to $7.2 billion.

Rabiee also highlighted the environmental implications, noting that ships traveling longer routes burn more fuel, which contributes to higher emissions. Despite these challenges, he affirmed the ongoing safety and reliability of the Suez Canal, stating, “The Suez Canal remains the safest and shortest route for global maritime traffic.”

Bud Darr, executive vice president of Maritime Policy and Government Affairs at MSC Group, addressed the broader challenges facing the shipping industry due to regional instability. “I don’t think anyone could say we’re on a pathway towards de-escalation in the region,” Darr remarked, emphasizing that the safety of seafarers influenced MSC’s decision to reroute vessels.

He pointed out the environmental and operational costs associated with longer routes, including increased emissions and impacts on service reliability and capacity.

Darr stressed the importance of building resilience into the supply chain, revealing that MSC had invested in additional capacity even before the current disruptions, enabling the company to adapt more effectively. “It’s not about the bare minimum; it’s about being ready for the next Black Swan event,” he added.


Saudi Arabia to invest $267bn in logistics to become global hub by 2030: minister

Saudi Arabia to invest $267bn in logistics to become global hub by 2030: minister
Updated 13 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia to invest $267bn in logistics to become global hub by 2030: minister

Saudi Arabia to invest $267bn in logistics to become global hub by 2030: minister
  • Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser said that SR200 billion of the total amount has already been deployed
  • Al-Jasser said there is no better time to hold this forum as the global logistics industry stands at a critical juncture

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is set to invest over SR1 trillion ($267 billion) in its logistics sector, underlining its ambition to become a global hub by 2030, according to a senior official. 

Speaking at the inaugural Global Logistics Forum 2024, which began on Oct. 13 in Riyadh, Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser said SR200 billion of the total amount has already been deployed.  

“These investments have translated into leapfrogs in the Saudi logistics sector, leading us to rise in global rankings, jumping 17 ranks in the Logistics Performance Index issued by the World Bank and 14 places in the Global Connectivity Index of the International Air Transport Association,” he said.  

The country’s transport and logistics plan, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub connecting three continents.  

This initiative, part of the broader Vision 2030 program, focuses on modernizing transportation systems, enhancing integration within the logistics network, and supporting the Kingdom’s overall development goals. 

In his speech, Al-Jasser said there is no better time to hold this forum as the global logistics industry stands at a critical juncture. 

“Current disruptions highlight the fundamental needs to ensure the safety and security of the supply chain and the seamless functioning of the backbone of global commerce, so economies thrive, goods get delivered, and people are connected,” he said. 

The minister noted how logistics have impacted his own life, from delivering his favorite cup of coffee to his home to transporting vaccines to remote, otherwise unreachable areas. 

Al-Jasser said that over the next two days, the forum will address the challenges facing the sector and shape a sustainable future that promotes prosperity for all. 

“Where could it be better to hold the global logistics forum than at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, the heart of global connectivity, where more than 40 percent of the world’s gross domestic product is reached within six hours,” he said. 

Al-Jasser also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s historical significance as a trade hub, referencing ancient networks like the Incense Road, the Spice Road, and the sea route of the Silk Road.   

“These routes, which spanned continents, carried not only goods but also ideas and cultures that shaped civilizations. Now, once again, we are at the forefront of global trade through cutting-edge infrastructure, such as King Salman International Airport, state-of-the-art seaports, and a robust rail network,” Al-Jasser added.  

He also emphasized the Kingdom’s strides in sustainability through the Saudi Green Initiative. 

“Last year alone, using the Saudi rail network, we eliminated the equivalent of 1 million truck journeys from our roads, drastically reducing carbon emissions,” he said.  

Al-Jasser noted that advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and smart infrastructure are reforming the global supply chain, reducing costs, increasing speed, and protecting the environment.  

Major deals  

Following Al-Jasser’s speech, several agreements were signed, including a maritime connectivity cooperation agreement between the Kingdom’s Transport General Authority and the Egyptian Ministry of Transport.  

King Salman International Airport Development Co. and ewpartners, an independent investment firm, signed a memorandum of understanding for collaboration in the KSA-Sino Logistics Zone. Additionally, the Mediterranean Shipping Co. and King Abdullah Port inked a contract for a temperature-controlled warehouse at King Abdullah Port.  

Matarat Holding and the Ministry of Transport signed an agreement for 24 seats in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program. ALTANFEETHI and the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services signed a similar agreement for eight seats, while Saudi Arabia Railways secured 30 seats under the program.   

The Saudi Logistics Academy, along with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, launched an initiative to train 7,800 individuals in transport and logistics services through 60 different training programs and diplomas. 

On the sidelines of the event, Agility, a global supply chain services provider, announced the final phase of its expansion at Agility Logistics Parks in Riyadh. 

The SR250 million project will add 100,000 sq. meters of Class A warehousing, bringing the total space to 551,368 sq. meters. The first phase is expected to open in the first quarter of 2025, creating nearly 300 Saudi jobs. 

Agility is also investing SR611 million to build a third logistics complex near Jeddah, according to a press release. 

Michel Saab, global CEO of Agility Logistics Parks, said the Riyadh expansion is more than just increasing capacity — it represents a significant contribution to Saudi Arabia’s logistics market and will attract global firms to grow in the Kingdom. 

“By building world-class warehousing, we are able to provide critical infrastructure that is helping to make the Kingdom a global and regional logistics hub,” he said. 

The Global Logistics Forum 2024, organized by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services and held under the patronage of King Salman, aims to redefine the global landscape of trade and supply chains.   

By bringing together ecosystem partners at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, this two-day forum seeks to enhance efficiency, resilience, sustainability, and profitability, ultimately fostering prosperity in an increasingly interconnected world. 

Amid challenges such as international tensions, economic instability, complex supply chains, and the growing impact of climate change, the logistics sector is at a pivotal moment.  

The forum aims to bolster international collaboration and drive growth in the logistics sector by showcasing the latest technologies and innovative solutions. 

This first edition of the Global Logistics Forum marks a pivotal event for the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services as it seeks to revolutionize global trade and supply chains by enhancing efficiency and profitability.  


Saudi Arabia to appoint private operators to manage 4 airports soon, say Al-Falih

Saudi Arabia to appoint private operators to manage 4 airports soon, say Al-Falih
Updated 13 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia to appoint private operators to manage 4 airports soon, say Al-Falih

Saudi Arabia to appoint private operators to manage 4 airports soon, say Al-Falih

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is strengthening the role of private entities in the logistics and transport sector through various initiatives, including a new investment law, according to a top minister.

At the Global Logistics Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih announced that the government plans to appoint private operators to manage four airports in the Kingdom in the coming months.

Enhancing the operations of seaports and airports is vital for Saudi Arabia as it aims to establish itself as a strategic regional hub and logistics gateway spanning three continents. The National Logistics Strategy seeks to boost the sector’s contribution to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product from 6 percent to 10 percent by 2030.

“The government is moving away from direct business involvement. Empowering and enabling the private sector is essential,” Al-Falih stated. He highlighted that the Madinah airport, the Kingdom’s most efficient, is managed by a private operator under a long-term concession, while King Abdullah Port, built with no government capital expenditure, is also privately operated.

“In the coming months and years, you will see continued privatization, with four airports entering the market. This is just the beginning,” he added.

Al-Falih emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s entrepreneurial landscape is favorable, and the new investment law is attracting significant investments in logistics and transport. In August, the Kingdom approved an updated investment law aimed at enhancing foreign direct investment.

The law includes stronger protections for investors, ensuring adherence to the rule of law, fair treatment, property rights, robust intellectual property safeguards, and streamlined fund transfers.

Al-Falih emphasized the importance of establishing a regionalized supply chain within the Gulf Cooperation Council. He noted that countries like Saudi Arabia, with their strategic geographical position, have significant opportunities in the transport and logistics sector.

“What is essential for us in the region is the regionalization of global supply chains. While globalization has benefitted humanity and the global economy, it is evolving toward a multi-hub regional logistics and transport system,” Al-Falih stated.

He continued: “The Middle East is at the forefront of developing its logistics and transport sector. We sit at the intersection of north-south and east-west routes, and we are actively creating our own regional logistics hub. We’re not starting from scratch; I anticipate rapid progress.”

Al-Falih also underscored the need to expand shipping ports and lanes to alleviate pressure on existing facilities. “Currently, 30 ports handle 80 percent of maritime traffic, which is too much concentration. This will inevitably change,” he concluded.

The sustainability factor

Talking about sustainability, Al-Falih said that Saudi Arabia consider it as a golden opportunity to develop green energy sources like green hydrogen, and green ammonia to reduce emissions in the sector, which contributes 10 percent to the overall emissions happening globally. 

“It is not easy to switch to alternative fuels. But that we must do. From a climate standpoint, and given everybody’s commitment to net zero in the next few decades. The Kingdom, we see it as a huge opportunity. Many people assume we consider it a threat. We see these fuels of the future, whether it is green ammonia, blue ammonia, methanol into shipping as a huge opportunity for the Kingdom and countries in the region,” added Al-Falih. 

UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Al-Mazrouei expressed concerns about the potential pollution from expanding shipping lines, emphasizing the need for alternative connectivity solutions.

“The challenges ahead are significant. We cannot simply expand shipping lines or increase the number of ships, as pollution will become a major issue. We need to explore other means of connectivity,” he stated.

In the same panel, Saeed bin Hamoud Al-Maawali, Oman’s minister of transport, communications, and information technology, highlighted the substantial opportunities in Oman’s renewable energy sector. “Oman is poised to benefit greatly from green initiatives. We have just announced our first LNG terminal for bunkering, and there are vast opportunities for producing green hydrogen due to our favorable natural conditions, including strong wind and solar resources, along with ample available land,” said Al-Maawali.

He further noted that Oman aims to play a pivotal role in the transport and logistics sector, acting as a trade facilitator between East Africa and India.

The vitality of technology

During the session, Al-Falih said that technology is going to play a crucial role in modernizing the transport and logistics sector. 

According to the investment minister, e-commerce platforms like Amazon, which uses logistics as a key part of their operations have become one of the biggest companies in the world by leveraging technology wisely. 

“The trend is digitalization, data processing and AI (artificial intelligence), and they are huge enablers. The other trend is e-commerce, and we have seen with technology, how disruptive that has been,” said Al-Falih. 

Al-Mazrouei also echoed similar views and said that technologies like blockchain are crucial to enhance operations in the transport and logistics sector. 

“The future is going to be in the blockchain technology; how can we speed up and how can we eliminate certain processes between the first buyer of a good and the end consumer,” said Al-Mazrouei. 

The UAE minister added that the logistics and transport industry should be modernized to meet future demands, and it demands huge capital. 

The future outlook

During the panel, Saudi Arabia Transport Minister Saleh Al-Jasser said that the Kingdom is steadily pursuing its goals outlined in Vision 2030, and is on a path to become a global logistics hub. 

“Despite the current challenges in the region, I never been as optimistic about the future of logistics in Saudi Arabia and the region,” said Al-Jasser. 


Saudi Arabia leads global efforts at 79th UNGA, paving the way for action at COP16

Saudi Arabia leads global efforts at 79th UNGA, paving the way for action at COP16
Updated 13 min 8 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia leads global efforts at 79th UNGA, paving the way for action at COP16

Saudi Arabia leads global efforts at 79th UNGA, paving the way for action at COP16
  • Kingdom’s incoming COP16 Presidency initiated a series of events to sound the international alarm on these pressing issues
  • Saudi Arabia took a proactive approach in hosting and participating in a wide range of events aimed at finding long-term solutions

RIYADH: Global discussions on environmental challenges took center stage at the 79th UN General Assembly, with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture spearheading talks. 

In preparation for the upcoming UNCCD COP16, the Kingdom’s incoming COP16 Presidency initiated a series of events to sound the international alarm on these pressing issues, primarily focusing on addressing the UNCCD target of restoring 1.5 billion hectares of land by 2030. 

The Saudi Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and advisor to the incoming COP16 President, Osama Faqeeha, emphasized in an interview with Arab News, the urgency of this mission: “At the forefront of our actions in New York has been ensuring we raise international awareness of the urgency with which the world must tackle land degradation, drought and desertification.”

Saudi Arabia’s efforts at the UNGA were not limited to raising awareness. The Kingdom took a proactive approach in hosting and participating in a wide range of events aimed at finding long-term solutions. 

A key event, titled the “Road to Riyadh,” brought together critical stakeholders from the environmental policy, governmental, scientific, and NGO ecosystems. 
 
This meeting laid the foundation for discussions that will continue through COP16, focusing on creating an actionable plan to address various environmental concerns. 

Faqeeha said: “At the UN General Assembly in New York, we have been hosting and participating in events designed to find lasting solutions to land degradation, desertification, and drought.”

He added: “We have been, and will continue to, consult and engage with a wide range of experts, decision-makers, and environmental stakeholders in the buildup to COP16 in Riyadh, to raise awareness around policy initiatives and land restoration funding mechanisms, with the ultimate goal of delivering a COP of action in December.”

A significant outcome of Saudi Arabia’s participation at the UNGA was the launch of the groundbreaking “Rio Trio” initiative, which Faqeeha described as a critical dialogue among the three major environmental conventions — the UNCCD, which focuses on land degradation, UNFCCC, which tackles climate change, and CBD which is centered on biodiversity. 

The Rio Trio event, held on the sidelines of the UNGA, brought together decision-makers from Azerbaijan, the incoming presidency of COP29; Colombia, the incoming presidency of CBD COP16; and Saudi Arabia, the incoming presidency of COP16.

The initiative’s goal is to find unified solutions that address the interconnected challenges of land degradation, climate change, and biodiversity loss. 

“The end of 2024 stands to be an important period for our planet,” Faqeeha said, describing it as “an opportunity to help deliver decisive change with all three COPs taking place over a short period of time.”

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to multilateral cooperation is not limited to the UNGA. The Kingdom has also played a leading role in international environmental initiatives, such as the G20 Global Land Initiative, which was launched at the G20 summit in Riyadh in 2020. 

The initiative aims to halve degraded land by 2040, a target that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader mission to foster global collaboration on land restoration. 

Faqeeha highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating: “It was in fact at the G20 in Riyadh in 2020 when the group took the historic step of launching the Global Land Initiative, pledging to halve degraded land by 2040.”

He also highlighted that Saudi Arabia will continue to promote this goal at upcoming international engagements, including the G20 summit in Brazil.

As the Kingdom prepares for COP16, the country is actively working to rally the international community to deliver enhanced commitments on land restoration and prevention of further degradation. 

The COP16 conference, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, is expected to attract up to 20,000 participants, making it the largest UNCCD COP to date. 

“We are expecting to attract up to 20,000 people, making COP16 the largest UNCCD COP to date,” Faqeeha said. The conference will also feature the first-ever Green Zone, a space where public and private sectors, NGOs, the scientific community, and financial institutions can collaborate on finding and funding sustainable solutions to land degradation. 

Faqeeha added: “We are doing this to amplify the voices of the 3.2 billion people impacted by land degradation, drought, and desertification around the world.”
 
The Kingdom’s leadership at COP16 is built on a strong foundation of international cooperation and domestic environmental stewardship. 

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 roadmap, which emphasizes economic diversification alongside environmental sustainability, is a driving force behind its ambitious land restoration goals.

“Sustainability is deeply rooted in the Kingdom’s development roadmap of Vision 2030,” Faqeeha highlighted. He explained that Saudi Arabia does not view economic development and environmental conservation as conflicting forces but as interlinked.

According to Faqeeha, the economic benefits of land restoration are significant, with the potential to generate $1.4 trillion annually through increased crop production from the restoration of degraded land.

He warned, however, that the cost of inaction is even higher, citing UN estimates that 90 percent of the Earth’s soil is at risk of degradation by 2050, which could result in far-reaching economic and social consequences.

Saudi Arabia’s leadership in this area extends beyond its borders. The Kingdom has committed to restoring 200 million hectares of degraded land domestically and internationally, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to land stewardship. 

Faqeeha stressed the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental protection, particularly in light of the nation’s responsibility as a G20 nation. “The Kingdom is conscious of its responsibility to lead the local, regional, and international climate action efforts,” he said.

In fostering global collaboration at COP16, Saudi Arabia encourages other countries to adopt sustainable land management practices and contribute to the UNCCD’s goals. 

“We need a transformational raising of awareness,” Faqeeha said, stressing that land restoration is not just an environmental necessity but an economic opportunity. 

He explained that the return could be as high as $30 for every dollar invested in restoring degraded land. 

To achieve this, Saudi Arabia is actively working to unlock funding mechanisms, including those available via multilateral development banks, to help drive global investment in sustainable land management.

Businesses will also play a critical role in addressing land degradation, and the Kingdom is committed to encouraging the private sector to take more active steps in this regard. 

“The unfortunate reality is businesses have often been driven by short-term profits, overlooking the long-term consequences of their actions,” Faqeeha observed. 

He stressed that COP16 will focus on shifting this mindset, encouraging businesses to recognize the long-term value of sustainable practices. 

“Restoring ecosystems and soil biodiversity is among the most effective weapons against weather extremes,” he underlined, adding that businesses stand to benefit from greater economic security by investing in regenerative land use.

In addition to engaging the private sector, Saudi Arabia is committed to involving the youth in the global land restoration movement. Faqeeha pointed out that over 1 billion young people in developing countries depend on land and natural resources for their livelihoods. 

He stated: “Global efforts on land restoration can succeed only if we involve the youth.” At COP16, the Kingdom will provide a platform for young people to participate in discussions and advocate for sustainable land management practices. 

“UNCCD recognizes youth as key changemakers and their social and economic integration and empowerment are critical for global land actions,” Faqeeha said.

He added: “That is why the UNCCD is actively promoting youth engagement and placing it at the forefront of global efforts to restore land and boost drought resilience.”

Faqeeha highlighted that today’s young generation will inherit the responsibility of desertification and land degradation, climate change, biodiversity loss, and growing socioeconomic inequality. 

Gender equality is another key focus of COP16. Saudi Arabia will host a Gender Forum in the Green Zone to ensure that women’s leadership and participation in land restoration efforts are prioritized. 

“Gender equality is critical for the global effort to prevent, reduce, and reverse land degradation,” Faqeeha emphasized.

The forum will serve as a platform to address gender inequality and promote the role of women, particularly those most affected by land degradation, in shaping sustainable solutions.

As Saudi Arabia looks ahead to COP16, it remains steadfast in its mission to foster global collaboration, drive tangible results, and create a lasting legacy in the fight against land degradation, desertification, and drought. 

“At the UN General Assembly, we have sought to galvanize governments, businesses, NGOs and experts- to name just a few- to arrive in Riyadh ready to deliver the robust multilateral action our planet desperately needs,” Faqeeha concluded. 

By leveraging the momentum built at the 79th UN General Assembly and continuing to champion multilateral solutions, the Kingdom is set to make COP16 a transformative moment for both people and the planet.