Jeddah Wraps Up First International Floating Franchise Exhibition with 24 Countries Taking Part and the Launch of a Digital Platform for Investors

Jeddah, 9 Dhul Qadah 1446 AH / May 7, 2025

The International Floating Exhibition for Commercial Franchising concluded today, held aboard the "Aroya Cruise" tourist ship in Jeddah, with the participation of investors and entrepreneurs from more than 24 countries, in an exceptional experience that combined tourism and investment within a framework reflecting the development aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030.

National Franchise Committee chairman Dr. Khalid Al-Ghamdi announced the launch of an interactive electronic platform aimed at connecting Saudi brands with international investors and providing technical-support, qualification and marketing services. He also revealed the establishment of a national company for a Saudi brand alliance aimed at collective expansion into foreign markets within a framework of comprehensive strategic partnerships.

Al-Ghamdi affirmed that the Saudi brand today represents an ambassador for national identity, carrying messages of partnership and globally competitive distinction, reflecting the evolution of the franchise concept in the Kingdom to keep pace with international standards.

The exhibition saw the participation of international organizations from countries including the United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Russia, Croatia and South Africa, with their representatives offering insights through accompanying workshops on global markets and franchise trends within them.

The event featured wide attendance from leading Saudi brands, which showcased successful business models targeting expansion into regional and global markets, within interactive pavilions embodying Saudi ambitions to export franchises locally and internationally.

The events also included the signing of several strategic cooperation agreements, most notably between the National Franchise Committee and the General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises (Monsha'at), the Social Development Bank, and the Saudi Restaurant and Cafe Owners Association.

The three-day exhibition helps strengthen investment opportunities, expand the network of business partnerships, and activate the franchise system as a key driver of sustainable economic growth in the Kingdom.