Logistics Unlocks New Opportunities for Saudi SMEs and Exporters

Saudi Arabia’s emergence as a regional logistics hub is a strategic goal under Vision 2030, and is increasingly a defining advantage in the face of global uncertainty. As disruptions continue to affect international trade routes, the Kingdom’s progress in building agile, technology-enabled supply chains is boosting investor confidence and reinforcing long-term competitiveness.

The 2024 National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) performance report showcases clear steps in this direction. The reduction of customs clearance to just two hours, the opening of 23 re-export centers across key economic zones, and the steady expansion of multimodal infrastructure, from ports to dry hubs, reflect a logistics environment that is evolving rapidly to meet global demands.

Yet, infrastructure is only part of the equation. Equally vital is the ability to maintain visibility, speed, and adaptability across every stage of the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to final delivery.

Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak, Managing Director of FedEx Operations in Saudi Arabia, emphasized, “The National Industrial Development and Logistics Program report reflects Saudi Arabia’s readiness for a new era of commerce, one where connectivity, adaptability, and innovation define success in the global economy. Logistics will remain central to advancing economic diversification and expanding the Kingdom’s role in global value chains.”

This readiness is already being tested and proven in practice. As global manufacturers seek reliable corridors for sourcing and distribution, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself not just as a logistics pass-through point, but as a value-adding platform with integrated services and regulatory support.

FedEx, with its global network and expertise in customs solutions, is one of the players supporting this transformation. Through its partnerships with national trade enablers and participation in programs like “Made in Saudi”, FedEx provides local businesses with tools to manage complex trade flows with confidence. Innovations in digital tracking, cost-effective service tiers, and documentation support have made cross-border operations more transparent and predictable for exporters of all sizes.

The NIDLP’s progress is a signal to international markets: Saudi Arabia is building a trade ecosystem that can absorb shocks, scale with demand, and remain agile under pressure. In a global economy that increasingly rewards stability and flexibility, the Kingdom’s focus on logistics modernization is helping to ensure that its future growth is not only ambitious—but sustainable.

Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak Managing Director  of FedEx Operations in Saudi Arabia