Saudi Arabia Showcases Maritime Transport Achievements at International Exhibition in London

Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Transport General Authority, organized a high-profile international exhibition in London to highlight its key achievements and strategic initiatives in the maritime transport sector. The event witnessed the participation of senior officials and delegates from member states of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The exhibition was inaugurated by Prince Khalid bin Bandar, Saudi Ambassador to the United Kingdom, and Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services. Also in attendance were representatives of foreign embassies, government officials, and maritime attachés.

The event underscored Saudi Arabia’s status as an influential and active partner in the global maritime system and a leading contributor to the development of international maritime regulations and best practices. It further highlighted the Kingdom’s growing influence within the IMO and its ongoing efforts to promote sustainability, enhance supply chain efficiency, and advance maritime safety and innovation.

A key focus of the exhibition was the Kingdom’s investment in human capital through academies and specialized training centers dedicated to preparing seafarers, officers, and marine engineers. The event also showcased innovative projects aimed at automating maritime operations, thereby boosting environmental sustainability and operational excellence in the sector.

Speaking at the event, Prince Khalid bin Bandar emphasized that the exhibition reflects Saudi Arabia’s firm commitment to international cooperation and sustainable maritime development, aligned with the Kingdom’s reputation for hospitality and global engagement.

Minister Saleh Al-Jasser noted that the Kingdom is advancing steadily toward a leadership role in the maritime transport industry, guided by the ambitious goals of Vision 2030. He highlighted the Kingdom’s focus on talent development and technological innovation as central pillars of its strategy to transform Saudi Arabia into a global logistics hub.

Saudi Arabia’s maritime sector has experienced rapid growth in recent years. The number of Saudi-flagged vessels has reached 409, with a combined capacity exceeding 100,000 gross tons and over 16.5 million deadweight tons. The registered number of Saudi seafarers has increased to 3,000, supported by targeted training programs and regulatory frameworks aimed at strengthening national maritime competencies.

The SPA reported that these efforts form part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to contribute to the development of a forward-looking, advanced global maritime system. This approach goes beyond fleet expansion and regulatory modernization, encompassing operational excellence, investment in human resources, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies.

The exhibition in London reaffirmed the Kingdom’s position as a proactive and visionary player in the global maritime arena, committed to shaping a sustainable and resilient maritime future.