From February 11 to 13, 2025, the Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers Association (VDMA) and the Delegation of German Industry & Commerce for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Yemen (GESALO) organized a business delegation trip to Riyadh and Dammam. The focus was on exploring Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing construction sector, fueled by Vision 2030 and major projects like NEOM, Roshn, and Red Sea Global. The trip provided German construction and engineering companies with direct market insights, networking opportunities, and the chance to explore potential partnerships.
Riyadh: Engaging with Key Players in the Construction Sector
The delegation kicked off the trip in Riyadh with a roundtable hosted at GESALO, where the Delegate Dr. Dalia Samra-Rohte welcomed German and Saudi industry representatives. Discussions focused on the latest developments in Saudi Arabia’s construction market, Vision 2030 initiatives, and key topics like green cement and sustainable concrete solutions.
One of the first company visits was to Albawani, a leading construction company in the Kingdom, where participants gained valuable insights into ongoing construction projects and explored possibilities for future collaboration on EPC ventures. The delegation then visited Riyadh Cement, where company executives presented current challenges and discussed opportunities for cost-effective and sustainable cement production.
Dammam & Ras Al Khair: Exploring Industrial and Infrastructure Hubs
The second day brought the delegation to Ras Al Khair Industrial City, guided by the Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu. Participants toured facilities under construction and in operation, gaining a deeper understanding of the massive investments being made in Saudi Arabia’s industrial sectors. The last day of the delegation trip was marked by a visit to the Asharqia Chamber, the Eastern Province Chamber of Commerce, and meetings with representatives of Al Rashed Cement and Saudi Cement.
Throughout the trip, German companies engaged in meaningful exchanges with Saudi construction firms, project developers, and decision-makers. Site visits, direct discussions, and industry briefings offered participants a comprehensive understanding of the market dynamics and potential entry strategies.
The delegation’s visit underscored the growing opportunities for German companies in Saudi Arabia’s booming construction sector and laid the groundwork for future collaborations.