Smart Factories, AI, and Industrial Digitalisation: Empowering People at the Heart of Global Industrial Growth

Advanced manufacturing is transforming industries worldwide, not just through automation and robotics, but by placing people at the centre of innovation. By leveraging AI, digital twins, robotics, and advanced materials, organisations are enabling employees, engineers, and innovators to design, produce, and deliver goods with greater precision, efficiency, and impact. Technology is enhancing human capabilities, accelerating decision-making, and creating opportunities for skilled talent to thrive in a digitally driven industrial landscape.

Driving Growth Through Skills, Innovation, and Collaboration

The global advanced manufacturing market is projected to grow from USD 511.4 billion in 2025 to USD 1,550.6 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 14.9%. Beyond economic value, this growth fosters workforce development, cultivates engineering and digital skills, and strengthens collaboration across industries. Companies that invest in people alongside technology—through training, upskilling, and human-centric design—are unlocking new levels of productivity, innovation, and competitiveness.

Saudi Arabia: Leading a Human-Centric Industrial Revolution

Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global hub for advanced manufacturing, embedding human-centric practices within its industrial transformation strategy. Through initiatives such as the Advanced Manufacturing and Production Center and the Factories of the Future Program, over 4,000 facilities are being modernised into smart, connected plants. These projects are designed to empower the workforce, enhance skills development, and enable engineers and operators to work alongside cutting-edge technology, fostering a culture of innovation while driving Vision 2030 goals.

The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics (WAM) Saudi Summit & Expo 2026, held from 15–17 February 2026 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre, will convene global leaders, innovators, and policymakers to explore how advanced manufacturing can unlock human potential. With 100+ speakers, 50% international participation, and over 50 hours of content, the event will showcase how smart factories, AI, and industrial digitalisation are empowering people to lead, innovate, and shape the future of global industries.

Technology Empowering Human Potential

From additive manufacturing and robotics to AI-driven analytics and IIoT systems, technologies are enhancing human decision-making, enabling precision, safety, and creativity. Digital twins, predictive analytics, and smart automation allow engineers and operators to optimise workflows, reduce errors, and create higher-quality products. AR/VR and digital training platforms are upskilling teams faster, bridging the gap between human capability and technological potential.

The Way Forward: People and Technology in Partnership

Advanced manufacturing is at its most powerful when people and technology work in synergy. SMEs are leveraging accessible digital tools to expand skills and productivity, while large enterprises integrate AI, analytics, and automation to enhance workforce capability at scale. By keeping human expertise at the centre of industrial transformation, the global manufacturing ecosystem is evolving into a place where innovation, efficiency, and creativity thrive together.