Saudi Arabia ‘one of India’s most valued partners, a trusted friend and a strategic ally,’ Indian PM Narendra Modi tells Arab News

Exclusive Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets Saudi Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in New Delhi in September 2023. (Supplied)
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets Saudi Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in New Delhi in September 2023. (Supplied)
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Updated 24 April 2025
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Saudi Arabia ‘one of India’s most valued partners, a trusted friend and a strategic ally,’ Indian PM Narendra Modi tells Arab News

Saudi Arabia ‘one of India’s most valued partners, a trusted friend and a strategic ally,’ Indian PM Narendra Modi tells Arab News
  • Says “delighted” to be headed to Kingdom for third visit, expresses “great pride” in India’s relations with Saudi Arabia 
  • Calls Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman “strong advocate of our bilateral ties” who is “deeply admired” by Indian diaspora
  • Welcomes deeper integration of Saudi and Indian businesses, particularly in emerging sectors like green hydrogen and technology

JEDDAH: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the “limitless potential” of India’s growing ties with Saudi Arabia as he arrives in Jeddah for a two-day visit, his third to the Kingdom since 2016.

In an exclusive interview with Arab News, he described the Kingdom as “a trusted friend and strategic ally,” emphasizing how bilateral relations had expanded significantly since the creation of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019.

“Our partnership has limitless potential,” Modi said. “In a world full of uncertainties, our bond stands strong, as a pillar of stability.” He praised Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, calling him “a strong advocate of our bilateral ties” and a visionary who has inspired global admiration through the reforms under Vision 2030.

“Every time I have met him, His Royal Highness has left a deep impression on me. His insights, his forward-thinking vision, and his passion for fulfilling the aspirations of his people are truly remarkable,” he said. 




Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) spoke to Deputy Editor-in-Chief Noor Nugali (L) in an exclusive interview with Arab News. (AN Photo)

Highlighting shared economic ambitions, Modi noted that trade between the two countries had grown even amid global challenges, with energy, agriculture and fertilizers as key sectors. He welcomed deeper integration of Saudi and Indian businesses, particularly in emerging sectors like green hydrogen and technology.

“Indian companies have also maintained a strong presence across various sectors in Saudi Arabia,” he said. 

Modi congratulated the Kingdom for winning the bids to host World Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034, describing the dual successes as a matter of “immense pride.” He also pointed to growing defense cooperation and landmark joint military exercises as signs of increasing strategic trust. 

On the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), launched during the G20 Summit in September 2023, Modi said the project would be “a key catalyst of commerce, connectivity and growth in the entire region.”

In a statement, the Indian government said the visit “reflects the importance India attaches to its bilateral relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”




A handout picture provided by the Saudi Press Agency on April 3, 2016 shows Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz (R) welcoming India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi before a meeting in the capital Riyadh. (SPA/AFP/File Photo)

Q. Saudi-India ties are on an upswing. How do you assess the progress made in the strengthening of bilateral relations since the establishment of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019?

A. First of all, I want to thank His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his kind invitation. I am delighted to be here on my third visit. I take great pride in our relations with Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbor, a trusted friend and a strategic ally. 

Our connection is not new. It is rooted in civilizational exchanges that go back to centuries. From ideas to trade, there has been a constant flow between our two great nations.

Our relations have been on an upward trajectory since 2014. I fondly recall that in 2016, I had the honor of receiving The Order of King Abdulaziz from His Majesty King Salman. 

The formation of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019 marked a major milestone. Since then, cooperation between us has expanded across many sectors. And let me tell you, this is just the beginning. Our partnership has limitless potential. 

What anchors our relationship is mutual trust and goodwill. In a world full of uncertainties, our bond stands strong, as a pillar of stability. I truly believe these are promising times for India-Saudi Arabia ties. And, I must say, the Saudi leadership has played a vital role in strengthening this partnership.

India and Saudi Arabia will keep moving forward together — for peace, progress and prosperity, not just for our people, but for the entire world.

Q. Given your previous seven meetings with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, how would you characterize the personal rapport between the leadership of both countries? Has his rapport influenced the bilateral relationship in any way? 

A. Every time I have met him, His Royal Highness has left a deep impression on me. His insights, his forward-thinking vision, and his passion for fulfilling the aspirations of his people are truly remarkable. 

Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia has undergone tremendous social and economic transformation. The reforms he has undertaken have not just inspired the region, but also caught the attention of the entire world.  One can see the transformational changes in the country under Vision 2030 in a very short period. 

I value the personal warmth and trust we share. And, yes, this personal rapport has naturally translated into how both countries give priority to our partnership. He is a strong advocate of our bilateral ties. He has been a great supporter of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia and our people living in Saudi Arabia deeply admire him. 

When we talk, we focus on making this partnership future-ready. Jeddah has had a special connection with India. For centuries, this famed city has been one of the principal arteries for our trade and people-to-people exchanges. As a gateway to Makkah, for ages, our pilgrims have walked the by-lanes of Jeddah on their holy journey for Hajj and Umrah.




Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seen on a screen as he attends the Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh. (Reuters/File Photo)

Q. Saudi Arabia is India’s fifth-largest trading partner. What initiatives are being considered to further diversify and expand this economic partnership so that both countries can better face challenges together?

A. Our economic ties are as old as the monsoon winds. Given the proximity of our nations and the complementarity of our economies, there is a natural connect. That is why even during global challenges, our trade ties have not just survived, but they have grown.

While sectors like energy, agriculture and fertilizers are the main areas of our trade, efforts at diversification have borne fruits. Indian businesses and Saudi industry are building stronger connections. 

Building stronger connect between our businesses and industry and enhancing investment partnership is adding resilience to this relationship. Saudi Arabia is a leading energy partner for India. Likewise, India is contributing to food security in Saudi Arabia. I am told people in Saudi Arabia prefer Indian rice! India too loves Saudi dates. 

I also see several complementarities between Saudi Vision 2030 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 (Developed India 2047 initiative). 

Bilateral investments between our countries have also been increasing. Today, the Indian growth story offers immense opportunities for Saudi majors to invest and partner, from space economy to global supply chain collaborations. 

Indian companies have also maintained a strong presence across various sectors in Saudi Arabia. They are playing a crucial role in the realization of Saudi Vision 2030.

Our goal is to enhance this connect. 

India and Saudi Arabia are working on a Bilateral Investment Treaty. The proposed Free Trade Agreement between India and GCC has immense potential to transform the economic relationship between India and Saudi Arabia, and the region in general.




During the interview, Deputy Editor-in-Chief Noor Nugali (L) presented Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a copy of the first edition of Arab News to mark the newspaper's 50th anniversary. (AN Photo)

Q. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizing infrastructure development, what opportunities do you see for Indian companies to contribute to and benefit from these projects, including Riyadh Expo 2030 and Saudi FIFA World Cup 2034?

A. As a close friend, India rejoices in Saudi Arabia’s stellar achievements. I would like to congratulate the people of Saudi Arabia and its leadership for being chosen as the host for World Expo in 2030 and FIFA World Cup in 2034. 

It is a matter of immense pride for any country to host two marquee global events within a span of four years. It speaks volumes of the leadership of His Royal Highness and his vision. 

These mega events will boost the local economy. They offer opportunities for Indian companies as well. Our companies, as you are aware, have built a global reputation for their quality, competitiveness and efficiency. 

I understand that the Indian companies already have a strong participation in Saudi infrastructure and technology sectors. They are also creating value in various mega and giga projects as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. 

I also invite Saudi companies to take advantage of the remarkable opportunities in India as part of our Viksit Bharat journey. They can participate in the growth of India’s next-generation infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy, healthcare, utilities, innovation, start-ups and “blue economy” sectors.

Deeper engagements and two-way collaborations between companies of both countries will go a long way in strengthening the bilateral economic partnership.




A handout picture provided by the Saudi Press Agency on April 3, 2016 shows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) looking at a portrait of King Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman al-Saud, first monarch and founder of Saudi Arabia, during his visit to the Al-Masmak Castle in Riyadh on April 2, 2016. (SPA/AFP/File Photo)

Q: Given Saudi Arabia’s role as a key supplier of crude oil and petroleum products to India, how do you envision the future of energy collaboration between the two nations, especially in the context of global energy transitions? 

A. Energy has been an important pillar of our economic partnership. Saudi Arabia has been a strong and reliable energy partner for us. It is one of our top suppliers of crude and other petroleum products. As India seeks to become a developed country, our energy demands will continue to grow. And Saudi Arabia will remain a close partner in our energy security. As strategic partners we agree that our energy cooperation is not limited to mere buyer-seller relationships. We are also exploring joint projects in refineries and petrochemicals. 

The world is also witnessing a gradual shift toward cleaner and more sustainable energy resources. India is moving ahead with an ambitious target for green transition. We are confident of achieving 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030. 

Even in this journey, there is an immense scope of collaboration with Saudi Arabia. This includes the areas of supply chains, circular economy, energy efficiency and green hydrogen. As partners in the International Solar Alliance, both countries can work toward innovative solutions for future energy needs. 

During the New Delhi G20 Summit in 2023, along with His Royal Highness, we launched the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) initiative. We are now working on feasibility studies for electricity grid interconnectivity between India and Saudi Arabia and the wider region. As you can see, we are moving ahead with the vision of a comprehensive energy partnership between our two countries.

Q. Saudi-India defense engagements and joint exercises have been steadily increasing. What are the key areas of focus for defense and security cooperation in the coming years?

A. We consider Saudi Arabia as a force of positivity and stability in the region. As maritime neighbors, India and Saudi Arabia share a natural interest in safeguarding peace and stability in the region. 

The growing defense and security engagement and collaboration between the two countries is a reflection of deep mutual trust. It is also a testament to our shared commitment to regional stability, and our mutual resolve to address the evolving challenges in our extended neighborhood. 

We have seen steady progress in security cooperation. This includes areas such as counterterrorism, combating extremism, disrupting terror financing and tackling drug trafficking. We are also exploring new frontiers of cooperation in cybersecurity, recognizing its growing importance in today’s interconnected world. 

Last year, we achieved an important milestone: the first-ever joint exercises between the two land forces. These were complemented by two successful rounds of the joint naval exercise Al-Mohed Al-Hindi, which were held in 2021 and 2023. 

Both of us support deeper defense-industry collaboration. Over the past decade, defense manufacturing has taken deeper roots in India. Today, there is a strong military industrial complex with the ability to manufacture quality ammunition, small arms, tanks, armored carriers. For the air force, we are building drones, advanced light helicopters and fighter jets.  For the navy, we have the capacity to build patrol boats, submarines, and even aircraft carriers. 

We are not just fulfilling our own needs. India has also emerged as an important supplier of defense equipment to more than 100 countries around the world. 

I am glad that we have been able to meet some needs of the armed forces in Saudi Arabia. We support deeper engagement between private-sector players from both countries. We would welcome Saudi investment into the defense manufacturing sector in India that has been opened for private investment.




This handout photograph released by India's Press Information Bureau (PIB) on October 29, 2019 shows India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman shaking hands in Riyadh. (PIB/AFP/File Photo)

Q. The IMEEC initiative that was announced in September 2023 in New Delhi is an ambitious project to connect India and Europe through the Middle East. What are the key elements of IMEEC, and how is India working with Saudi Arabia to achieve the goals envisioned under this initiative?

A. India and Saudi Arabia, along with European Union, the UAE, France, Germany, Italy and the US, jointly launched the India Middle East Europe Corridor initiative in New Delhi in September 2023. 

This corridor will define the future of connectivity in all forms for centuries to come. It will become the key catalyst of commerce, connectivity and growth in the entire region. The corridor will enhance connectivity in all its forms, be it physical or digital. 

It will facilitate development of resilient and dependable supply chains, increase trade accessibility and improve trade facilitation. The corridor will increase efficiencies, reduce costs, enhance economic unity, generate jobs and lower greenhouse gas emission, resulting in a transformative integration of Asia, Europe and the Middle East. 

Both India and Saudi Arabia have a key role to play in the success of this corridor. We are committed to working with our Saudi partners to realize the vision of connectivity, including multi-modal logistic connectivity, data connectivity and electrical grid connectivity. We are working on clean and green hydrogen and related supply chains under this initiative. 

I visualize this initiative has a transformational potential for humanity. It can be the new Silk Route of the 21st century that will bring benefit to the generations to come.

Q. The Indian community of 2.7 million in Saudi Arabia has been praised by you as a binding force in bilateral ties. How does your government plan to further support and engage with the Indian diaspora in the Kingdom? 

A. First of all, let me put it on record that we are deeply grateful to Their Royal Highnesses, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for the patronage they have provided to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia. We can never forget how they took care of the Indians as one of their own during the difficult times of the COVID pandemic. 

Indians have a very important character — whichever country they go, they make it their home. They are law abiding, dedicated and professional to the core. They carry with them the values of empathy, compassion and care. 

This very nature earns them respect of their host country. Saudi Arabia is no exception. Whenever I have met His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, he has praised the Indian community and appreciated their significant contribution to the economic growth of the Kingdom. He has even said that they are part of the Saudi family. These words of praise always fill my heart with pride and joy. 

For my government, the members of the Indian diaspora are the “rashtradoots” (national ambassadors). The 4Cs — Care, Connect, Celebrate and Contribute — is the motto of our engagement with our diaspora. Their safety, welfare and well-being is paramount for us. 

Over the past decade we have launched many initiatives, including insurance schemes, scholarships for their children, and skilling programs. We have established mechanisms for safe and legal migration. The 2.7 million vibrant Indian community in Saudi Arabia is a living bridge connecting our two countries. I commend them for not only preserving their values and traditions, but also promoting them. 

I eagerly look forward to reconnecting with the Indian diaspora during this visit.




Narendra Modi at FII 2019 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (X/File Photo)

Q: How do you see religious tourism, cultural and educational exchanges developing as a component of Saudi-India bilateral relations? Do you foresee India’s IITs and IIMs opening campuses in Saudi Arabia, along the lines of IIT Delhi, Abu Dhabi campus? 

A. Our people have interacted with each other since the days of “Kalila wa Dimna.” The growing cultural connect between our countries is indicative of the understanding and appreciation for each other. 

As far as religious tourism is concerned, as you know we have a large Muslim population and they visit your beautiful country each year for Umrah and Hajj pilgrimage. We are grateful to the Saudi leadership for the continued assistance provided to Indian pilgrims. Yoga has gained considerable popularity in Saudi Arabia over the recent years, thanks to the encouragement and support of the Saudi government. We are also noticing a growing interest in cricket. 

I am told that Arab broadcasters run dedicated channels with Indian content that are very popular in the Kingdom. There is also a wide following for Indian films and actors. India is hosting the first edition of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit in Mumbai during May 1-4. We look forward to a strong participation from Saudi Arabia at the summit so that we can give new wings to our cultural and entertainment collaboration. 

Educational cooperation is another promising area. Indian higher education institutions are recognized globally. They are ready to take up opportunities, as and when those arise in Saudi Arabia as well. 

Finally, let me congratulate Arab News as it completes 50 years of its publication this year. I know Arab News has a special connection with Indians living in the Kingdom. Your media outlet is a strong symbol of our people-to-people ties. My best wishes to you as you continue to nourish India-Saudi Arabia friendship.

 


Saudi heritage on display at Hail festival

Saudi heritage on display at Hail festival
Updated 05 July 2025
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Saudi heritage on display at Hail festival

Saudi heritage on display at Hail festival

RIYADH: A heritage festival in Hail is captivating visitors with a rich array of handicrafts that blend artistry and historical authenticity, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The 30-day festival offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the dedication behind creating everyday necessities and celebrating the success of local craftswomen.

More than 40 activities are on display, allowing visitors to explore traditional skills such as wickerwork, sadu weaving, crochet, hand-woven textiles, and distinctive Najdi and Hail door making.

Other highlights include traditional clothing, Thamudic embroidery, wood and leather beading, fiber arts, resin art, and soap making, the SPA added.

Visitors can also savor a variety of traditional folk foods. At the heart of the festival, an artistic theater hosts performances, including the Hail Samri and Saudi Ardah.

The festival supports local craftspeople by providing a platform to showcase their work directly to the public. It also celebrates the Kingdom’s national identity and cultural heritage, in line with the Year of Handicrafts 2025.


Saudi Arabia expands aid project for flood-affected families in Pakistan

Saudi Arabia expands aid project for flood-affected families in Pakistan
Updated 05 July 2025
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Saudi Arabia expands aid project for flood-affected families in Pakistan

Saudi Arabia expands aid project for flood-affected families in Pakistan
  • The project “reflects the directives of the Saudi leadership and its continued support for the people of Pakistan.”

Riyadh: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has launched the third phase of its food security support project in Pakistan, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The launch ceremony was held at the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad, attended by Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, and other officials.

Al-Malki said the project “reflects the directives of the Saudi leadership and its continued support for the people of Pakistan.”

He added that it is part of a series of KSrelief initiatives intended to help vulnerable families, particularly those affected by floods across the country.

The project will distribute more than 30,000 food baskets in various regions of Pakistan. Each basket contains essential food items sufficient for a family for one month, the SPA reported.

The project will assist a total of 210,000 people, Al-Malki added.

Hussain expressed the gratitude of the Pakistani government and people for Saudi Arabia’s ongoing humanitarian assistance.

Meanwhile, KSrelief concluded the Saudi Noor program to combat blindness and its causes in Settat, Morocco, on Saturday.

During the week-long campaign, medical volunteers examined 2,525 patients, performed 276 surgeries, and distributed 957 pairs of glasses.

In Yemen, a KSrelief team visited vocational training centers in Seiyun district, Hadramout governorate, to assess the Vocational Pathways project aimed at empowering young men and women.

The team reviewed training programs in motorcycle electrical maintenance and sewing and tailoring, which are benefiting 40 participants from both the host community and displaced populations.

The project is part of the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts to benefit Yemeni youth through vocational training and tools, contributing to sustainable development for the country.

In Sudan, KSrelief distributed 500 food baskets to displaced families in several towns in Blue Nile State, benefiting 3,266 people. The agency also distributed 1,550 food baskets in El-Gadarif State, benefiting 10,230 individuals.

-ENDS-


Kingdom arrests 17,863 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 17,863 illegals in one week
Updated 05 July 2025
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Kingdom arrests 17,863 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 17,863 illegals in one week
  • A total of 10,746 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,362 were held over illegal border crossing attempts

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 17,863 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 10,746 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,362 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 2,755 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,507 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 65 percent were Ethiopian, 33 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 99 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 26 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, the SPA reported.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($267,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


Japan, GCC conclude second round of FTA negotiations

Japan, GCC conclude second round of FTA negotiations
Updated 05 July 2025
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Japan, GCC conclude second round of FTA negotiations

Japan, GCC conclude second round of FTA negotiations
  • Proposals were reviewed by both sides, with a focus on strengthening trade relations, finding areas to cooperate and fostering partnerships

TOKYO: The second round of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement between the GCC countries and Japan ended in Tokyo on Friday.

Taking part in the discussions — which covered topics including goods, technical barriers, terms of services, financial and telecommunications services, and intellectual property — was a government delegation led by the General Authority for Foreign Trade.

Proposals were reviewed by both sides, with a focus on strengthening trade relations, finding areas to cooperate and fostering partnerships.

Farid bin Saeed Al-Asali, deputy governor of the General Authority for International Organizations and Agreements and head of the Saudi Negotiating Team, said he was looking forward to completing the remaining negotiation rounds and reaching an ambitious final agreement which would be beneficial to the volume of trade between both sides.

He added the negotiation rounds highlighted economic ties between the GCC and Japan and supported Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

During a meeting with the Saudi ambassador to Japan, Dr. Ghazi bin Faisal Binzagr, Al-Asali stressed the importance of free trade negotiations with Japan as they emphasized the commitment of both Saudi Arabia and the GCC countries to enhancing relations with Japan and achieving the goals of the Saudi-Japanese Vision 2030.

The Kingdom’s delegation included representatives from the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Ministry of Investment, Ministry of Economy and Planning, Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property, Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization, Saudi Export Development Authority, Communications, Space and Technology Commission, Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, and the Saudi Central Bank.

• This article also appeared on Arab News Japan


How Saudi Arabia is using innovation, research, and regulation to turn waste into a circular economy success

How Saudi Arabia is using innovation, research, and regulation to turn waste into a circular economy success
Updated 05 July 2025
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How Saudi Arabia is using innovation, research, and regulation to turn waste into a circular economy success

How Saudi Arabia is using innovation, research, and regulation to turn waste into a circular economy success
  • Engineering, AI and cross-sector partnerships are driving sustainable solutions to manage 110 million tons of waste annually
  • New laws, financial incentives and rising investor interest are reshaping the Kingdom’s waste management and recycling landscape

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia accelerates toward a circular economy under Vision 2030, experts say universities, research institutions, and business leaders are playing a crucial role in developing innovative waste management solutions that align with national sustainability goals.

In early 2024, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture announced a waste management plan aiming to recycle up to 95 percent of waste and add SR120 billion ($31.99 billion) to the Kingdom’s gross domestic product.

Saudi Arabia generates more than 110 million tons of waste each year, much of it originating from cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Its waste management market is projected to grow from $5.97 billion in 2025 to $8.72 billion by 2030, according to Mordor Intelligence.

To meet this challenge, academic partnerships, regulatory reforms and emerging technologies are coming together to reshape the sector, Sultan Al-Muaythir, chairman of the civil engineering department at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, told Arab News.

Forming knowledge-sharing agreements with leading countries in waste management, he said, is a strategic step toward building a sustainable, locally adapted system that draws on global best practices and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s circular economy ambitions.

To drive innovation in the sector, Al-Muaythir emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary support. Fields like civil engineering, landfill and waste management, geotechnical engineering, and soil sciences all contribute to the design and development of critical infrastructure.

Sultan Al-Muaythir, chairman of the civil engineering department at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University. (Supplied)

Mechanical engineering plays a key role in advancing collection and treatment equipment, while chemical, agricultural and biotechnology engineering disciplines help analyze waste composition and develop transformation processes.

Electrical engineering, he added, is essential for operating smart systems and managing energy generated through treatment.

Al-Muaythir also pointed to the Kingdom’s updated regulatory landscape, particularly the introduction of the Waste Management Law and its executive regulations, as a strong foundation for encouraging innovation and investment in sustainable practices.

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He explained that the next phase calls for faster plan implementation, broader international research collaboration and direct incentives for advanced processing technologies — steps that would speed up the Kingdom’s progress toward its environmental and development goals.

While government action is essential, Al-Muaythir said innovation in waste management is not a luxury, but a necessity for building a clean environment and a functioning circular economy.

He added that individual responsibility plays an equally important role. “Adopting conscious behaviors towards waste and committing to sorting and reuse/recycling constitute the first building blocks in creating a more sustainable future,” he said.

Expanding on this vision, Abdullah Alakel, chairman of the Saudi Scientific Research and Innovation Association, said waste management innovation is a cornerstone of Vision 2030’s broader goal to build a circular and sustainable economy.

Abdullah Alakel, chairman of the Saudi Scientific Research and Innovation Association. (Supplied)

He told Arab News that scientific research is a key driver in tackling environmental challenges — from recycling and waste-to-energy technologies to the use of artificial intelligence to improve sorting and collection processes — ultimately boosting operational efficiency and reducing environmental harm.

To support this ecosystem, the association provides business incubators and innovation accelerators, offering technical and financial assistance. It also facilitates connections between researchers, donors and investors to help turn ideas into market-ready solutions.

Alakel noted that several joint initiatives with academic and industrial partners are already underway, including efforts to convert organic waste into economic products such as fertilizers and biofuels.

DID YOU KNOW?

 

• Saudi Arabia aims to recycle up to 95 percent of its waste by 2040. Waste management sector is projected to contribute $32bn to GDP by 2040.

• Half of the Kingdom’s waste comes from Riyadh (21 percent), Jeddah (14 percent) and Dammam (8 percent).

(Sources: Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and the National Center for Waste Management)

Other projects aim to develop scalable recycling technologies and improve overall waste management efficiency.

Beyond research, the association works to foster a culture of sustainability across society. Alakel said it organizes public awareness campaigns, educational workshops in schools and universities, and national competitions that encourage creative, environmentally responsible solutions.

He added that the association plays a critical role in bridging academia and implementation by hosting scientific conferences, building strategic partnerships and supporting national innovation deployment in alignment with Vision 2030’s environmental goals.

Farah Al-Gharib, CEO of Precision & Choice Environmental Solutions, echoed those views, underscoring the opportunity to enhance coordination between stakeholders as Saudi Arabia moves toward a circular economy.

Farah Al-Gharib, CEO of Precision & Choice Environmental Solutions. (Supplied)

She told Arab News that aligning regulations, expanding infrastructure for sorting and collection, and stimulating private investment remain key challenges. Raising public awareness and promoting innovation are also essential to achieving sector-wide transformation.

To accelerate progress, Al-Gharib called for a more integrated and flexible system that encourages public-private partnerships. Activating source-level sorting and offering financial incentives to investors, she said, would help drive growth in the sector.

Clear metrics, such as waste reduction, cost savings and job creation, should be used to measure success.

KAUST's waste collection fleet is equipped with technology that supports efficient operations, from online vehicle tracking to waste bin management. (Photo courtesy of KAUST)

Looking ahead, she expects more companies to invest in smart technologies and expand their collection and treatment networks. Seamless integration across the entire waste value chain — from source to processing and redistribution — is essential, she said, to avoid bottlenecks and uphold the core principles of the circular economy.

“Based on our experience in the sector, we believe that unifying and updating regulations under a single, clear, and transparent regulatory framework would directly contribute to attracting investors, reducing the complexity of procedures and the classification of recyclable products, thereby accelerating regulatory processes and stimulating production,” said Al-Gharib.

She concluded that clear legislation and coordinated responsibilities across authorities are key to scaling up circular economy initiatives effectively and sustainably.