Jeddah, May 5, 2025 (7 Dhul Qadah 1446 AH)

In a pioneering step that is the first of its kind in the region, Jeddah governorate today saw the launch of the first international floating exhibition for commercial franchising, held aboard "Aroya Cruise," one of the Public Investment Fund's projects, with the participation of a select group of investors, entrepreneurs, and representatives of Saudi and international brands. The event aims to help Saudi brands expand locally and internationally and open new horizons for investment in the franchise sector, reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a regional hub for brands.

A Floating Platform Combining Business and Tourism

The three-day exhibition combines business and entertainment aboard the luxury ship, providing a vibrant space for connecting investors and brands in an inspiring environment that supports innovation and cross-border cooperation. Day one featured a visual presentation on the National Franchise Committee and its objectives, which include developing the regulatory and commercial environment and increasing the number of active Saudi brands operating under franchise systems.

Strategic Initiatives to Support Saudi Franchising Globally

Dr. Khalid Al-Ghamdi, chairman of the National Franchise Committee, announced three key initiatives launched during the exhibition: establishing a national company to support export franchises, launching an electronic platform to facilitate the international expansion of Saudi brands, and creating an investment fund to encourage the global spread of Saudi brands.

He also confirmed that more than 204 Saudi brands have been listed on the franchise platform, with franchise registrations growing by 866% over the past three years, reflecting global markets' confidence in the quality of Saudi products.

An Advanced Investment Environment Supporting Entrepreneurs

Ibrahim Al-Hussein, director of franchise services at "Monsha'at," noted that the number of brands operating under franchise systems reached more than 1,200 by the end of 2024, with more than 22,000 franchise opportunities made available to investors, reflecting the development of the support system for entrepreneurs in the Kingdom.

Eng. Mohammed Al-Owhali of the Ministry of Investment also affirmed that the Kingdom is going through a "golden age" for investment, supported by digital infrastructure, attractive incentives, and continuous efforts to boost transparency and governance.

Strategic Partnerships to Strengthen Integration

The exhibition saw the signing of several memoranda of understanding between the National Franchise Committee and the Social Development Bank, Monsha'at, and the Restaurant and Cafe Owners Association, part of a joint effort to strengthen integration between relevant bodies and expand the support network for the franchise sector.