Ahead of its highly anticipated launch in the Saudi capital, the Global Logistics Forum 2024 has announced a series of strategic partnerships with leading organizations working in aviation, ports, and supply-chain and logistics management. The roster of partners includes major names such as Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) in aviation and the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) in port management and operations, alongside leading companies such as Agility and Aramex. The forum also enjoys academic backing from prominent institutions including Bain & Company, Accenture Saudi Arabia, and the PwC Academy Riyadh, reinforcing its weight and standing as a platform for researching and shaping the future of the logistics sector.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Dr. Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih said the forum is a "key milestone" in charting the future of the logistics sector, which he described as the backbone of the modern world given its reliance on an integrated logistics network. He pointed to current challenges facing the sector, such as shifting global trade routes, achieving sustainability, and developing infrastructure, noting that the forum's sessions will focus on addressing these challenges by adopting the latest technologies and innovations.

For his part, Engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, expressed his pride in the group's participation in this important event, describing it as an opportunity to collaborate with international leaders in the logistics sector and support the Kingdom's ambitious vision of becoming a global logistics hub. He stressed the importance of innovation and cooperation in strengthening Saudi Arabia's standing in this vital industry.

Steven Thomas, Chief Operating Officer at King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), affirmed the district's commitment to building an integrated and sustainable transport system, pointing to ambitious projects such as the construction of the Kingdom's largest metro station, reflecting KAFD's support for achieving the goals of Vision 2030.

Meanwhile, Othman Al-Jeda, CEO of Aramex, noted that the company opened a new regional center in Riyadh earlier this year, and said its partnership with the forum will contribute to achieving Vision 2030 goals by strengthening cooperation and sustainable growth in the logistics sector.

The forum, which will bring together more than 120 speakers including ministers, experts and international leaders, will feature dozens of panel discussions addressing vital topics such as sustainability, global trade resilience, and leveraging technological innovation to develop the logistics sector. A number of agreements and memoranda of understanding between leading entities will also be announced to strengthen integration and cooperation within this vital sector.

Holding the forum in Riyadh underscores the Kingdom's growing role in the logistics sector, which has seen a major surge thanks to improvements in infrastructure and the launch of logistics hubs, boosting its influence on global trade flows.

At a Glance

  • Location: Riyadh.
  • Speakers: more than 120, including ministers, experts and international leaders.
  • Key partners: Saudia, Mawani, Agility, Aramex, Bain & Company, Accenture Saudi Arabia, PwC Academy Riyadh, King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).