WAM Saudi 2026 Positions the Kingdom at the Heart of Global Manufacturing Transformation

As Saudi Arabia strengthens its position as a global hub for advanced manufacturing and industrial innovation, WAM Saudi 2026 is set to bring together leading international companies, policymakers, and technology pioneers. In this interview, Alex Nicholl, Vice President of New Industries at Kaoun International, shares insights into the key sectors, global participation, and strategic conversations shaping this year’s edition.

1. Which industrial sectors will be spotlighted at the WAM Saudi 2026 exhibition floor?

We have identified eight key sectors that are closely aligned with technology, advanced manufacturing and logistics for this year’s WAM Saudi. Based on in-depth market research and industrial consultation, we are highlighting automotive and construction markets along with food and beverage, aerospace, defense, pharmaceutical and biotech, oil and gas, mining, and petrochemicals. In addition, supply chain and logistics sectors are being featured, which serve as key enablers that support and connect all these sectors. Through this year’s exhibition, we aim to attract top buyers and industry decision-makers from around the globe, creating an environment where they can explore advanced technologies and discuss potential collaboration opportunities. 

2. How does the support of top international companies elevate the event’s global appeal and strategic impact?

WAM Saudi 2026 features a strong lineup of first-time exhibitors showcasing advanced industrial technologies and Industry 4.0 solutions. It includes 44 startups and 37 different companies from the USA, the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Canada, the UAE, Türkiye, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Egypt, Pakistan, Russia, and Uzbekistan. The exhibition is designed with aim to spotlight international innovations, while promoting companies from the Kingdom. Top companies include Metalinvest Remko, Aconity 3D, InPro Electric GmbH, QuantiCor Security GmbH, Bison Italia SRL, Helical Fusion Co., Ltd., Telenet Co., Ltd., Saturn Pyro Sdn. Bhd., CyberX, TREX, NCC Operations, WorkNomads, and Sigma Engineering. The event reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a global manufacturing hub. Adding to this momentum are the first-ever international startup pavilions from Singapore and India, spotlighting next-generation manufacturing innovation. Furthermore, a competitive pitch program is being held, which awards USD 10,000, along with an opportunity to connect with investors, supports participating startups in expanding their business. The competition offers participants an opportunity to pitch their ideas and build strong ties with investors through the connection lounge. This positions WAM Saudi as a synergetic platform for facilitating high-level deals and partnerships. 

3. Who are the leading speakers taking the stage at the WAM Saudi Conference, and what are the key topics of discussion? 

This year’s edition welcomes a distinguished group of first-time speakers to Saudi Arabia, bringing influential perspectives on global policy, energy, digital innovation and advanced manufacturing. These participants include Andreas Jahn, Member of the Executive Board and Head of Government Affairs and Foreign Trade at BVMW in Germany; Victor Gao, Chairman of the China Energy Security Institute; Dr Sami Ben Jamaa, Digital Innovations Officer at Japan’s JERA Co. Inc.; Rt. Hon. Michelle Donelan, former UK Secretary of State across multiple portfolios including Science, Innovation and Technology; Chris Courtney, CEO of the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland; and Eman Martin Vignerte, Director of External Affairs and Government Relations at Bosch UK.