Saudi Arabia’s Export Gains Puts Logistics at the Center of Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a diversified, export-driven economy is accelerating, with logistics emerging as a strategic enabler of this shift. The Kingdom’s non-oil exports, including re-exports, surged 5.5% year-on-year in August 2025 , supported by strong demand from its largest trading partners, led by China and the UAE. This momentum underscores the Kingdom’s evolution from a predominantly consumer market into a regional and global production and re-export powerhouse. It also reflects steady progress toward Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives of building a more resilient, trade-focused economy.
To sustain this momentum, the Kingdom needs logistics capabilities that can match the scale and speed of its economic ambitions. This is where global players like FedEx see significant opportunity to support Saudi Arabia’s next phase of growth.
Building the infrastructure for a trade-powered economy
FedEx recently expanded its direct presence and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, including the launch of a dedicated non-stop FedEx Boeing 777 flight from Europe to Riyadh with onward connections to Asia. This new service boosts air capacity and enhances transit times to support the Kingdom’s growing trade volumes. The expansion also included new operational stations and gateways across Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, as well as upcoming road corridors linking Riyadh with Jeddah, Dammam, and key GCC markets, which will further strengthen the integration of the FedEx air and Middle East Road Network.
In addition, as the Kingdom advances its position as a global logistics leader, FedEx infrastructure developments such as the planned hub at the upcoming King Salman International Airport, which will serve Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, will bolster regional connectivity, support rising trade flows, and provide Saudi businesses faster, more reliable access to global markets.
This physical network is supported by advanced digital tools that simplify shipping, improve visibility, and increase efficiency across the supply chain.
“Saudi businesses are scaling faster and reaching farther, and that demands a logistics network that moves with the same pace and certainty,” said Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak, managing director operations, FedEx Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa. “Our expanded operations in the Kingdom are designed to give exporters the confidence, and global access they need to compete internationally, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions to build a world-class logistics sector. As the Kingdom continues to strengthen its diversified economy, we are focusing on providing the network and digital intelligence that help make that growth possible.”
Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak, managing director of FedEx operations
Industrial growth is reshaping logistics demand
Saudi Arabia’s industrial and manufacturing sectors are gaining global competitiveness, reflected in the Kingdom’s export mix, where machinery and electrical equipment accounted for 25.4% of non-oil shipments, followed by chemical products at 22.7% . This direction of growth is increasing the need for digitally enabled, end-to-end, specialized freight solutions that support heavyweight and regulated goods ranging from 68 kg to 1,000 kg.
“As production and distribution activities expand across the Kingdom, industries need freight solutions that are customized, offer near real-time tracking, and strike the right balance between speed and cost,” said Al-Mubarak. “This includes time-sensitive express freight shipped internationally by air as well as deferred road services within the Gulf. Industries also require shipping solutions that can handle oversized, palletized, temperature-controlled, and dangerous goods in line with regulatory standard. These capabilities support the seamless movement of industrial shipments that underpin growth in key sectors such as energy and healthcare that are pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 diversification agenda.”
SMEs: the engine of export growth
As trade activity expands, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are well placed to unlock new opportunities. The Kingdom’s growing logistics infrastructure and connectivity are giving local entrepreneurs new ways to compete globally. SMEs, which represent approximately 1.7 million companies in Saudi Arabia , remain key drivers of economic diversification. Navigating customs procedures and regional shipping requirements remains a key consideration for many.
“Saudi SMEs are the backbone of trade. Through our SME Cluster program, we equip businesses with insights and practical tools to engage more effectively in regional and global trade.” Al-Mubarak said. “In addition, in collaboration with the Saudi Export Development Authority under the ‘Made in Saudi’ program, we are also supporting national products and services to reach new markets. Our goal is to give SMEs the right logistics infrastructure, access, and expertise to expand beyond borders and compete globally. By simplifying trade and strengthening connections, we are helping them turn potential into progress.”
Saudi Arabia’s growing export base, expanding industrial activity, and strengthening trade links are reshaping logistics needs across the Kingdom. As demand for reliable, technology-enabled transport continues to rise, the focus will be on building networks that keep pace with the country’s economic direction. With world-class infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and clearer pathways for businesses of all sizes, the Kingdom is putting in place the elements needed to support a more thriving economy in the years ahead.
