Periodical Briefing: SAR33 Billion in Defense Deals, 5GW Solar Pact, New High-Speed Trains Define Early February
The first half of February has been defined by a decisive push toward industrial sovereignty and strategic regional economic integration, underpinned by record-breaking financial and operational metrics.
Defense Localization and Industrial Depth
Saudi Arabia took a massive leap in defense self-sufficiency at the World Defense Show 2026, where 60 deals worth SAR33 billion were signed. The event served as the launchpad for the HEET Program by SAMI Land Company, unveiling fully Saudi-designed and manufactured armored vehicles. This milestone was supported by the inauguration of the SAMI Land Industrial Complex, the region's largest integrated defense facility.
Simultaneously, Saudi Aramco achieved a critical supply chain target, reaching 70% local content through its iktva program, further securing the Kingdom's industrial resilience. CEER, the Kingdom's first electric vehicle brand, cemented its supply chain with SAR3.7 billion in new agreements, moving from planning to active manufacturing execution. This aligns with broader economic indicators, including a 4.5% GDP growth in 2025.
Diplomatic Rapprochement and Regional Stability
Diplomatically, Saudi Arabia reshaped regional dynamics through high-level engagements. A historic visit by the Turkish president resulted in agreements to develop 5,000 MW of solar power and deepen defense cooperation. In a significant move toward regional reintegration, a high-level Saudi delegation to Damascus signed major investment pacts in aviation and telecommunications, including the development of Aleppo International Airport and the establishment of a joint airline. These efforts, combined with continued aid to Yemen and Sudan, reinforce the Kingdom’s role as a pillar of regional stability and development.
The period by numbers:
220%: The surge in the number of mining exploitation licenses issued in 2025 compared to the previous year.
$4 Billion: The value of the international bond issuance completed by Saudi Aramco.
19.5 Million: The total number of pilgrims and Umrah performers received by the Kingdom in 2025.
65,603: The record-breaking number of visitors to the Saudi Media Forum, earning a Guinness World Record.
20: The number of new trains purchased for the Haramain High-Speed Railway from Talgo.
14 Million: The number of passengers transported by Saudi Arabia Railways in 2025.
11 Million: The number of mangrove trees planted to date in Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries.
SAR193 Billion: The annual increase in domestic liquidity (money supply) by the end of November 2025.
52,000 Tons: The volume of clinker exported to Egypt via the Port of Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries.
21,000: The record attendance at Madison Square Garden for the Riyadh Season "Ring 6" boxing event.
5.45 Million: The number of passengers handled by King Abdulaziz International Airport in January.
SAR44 Billion: The total investment value in the new mining exploitation licenses issued in 2025.
30 Million: The tons of freight transported by Saudi Arabia Railways in 2025, displacing two million truck journeys.
$50 Million: The value of the development loan signed by the Saudi Fund for Development to construct a cardiac center in Chad.
SAR591 Billion: The amount of local content spending by PIF and its portfolio companies between 2020 and 2024.
34%: The annual growth rate of the air cargo industry in Saudi Arabia last year, reaching 1.2 million tons.
100 Tons: The quantity of dates gifted by Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Indonesia.
3,000: The number of parcels per hour that the new UPS operations center in Riyadh can process.
76%: The survival rate for breast cancer in Saudi Arabia, contributing to its ranking among the top 10 G20 countries.
147: The number of architectural units discovered by the Heritage Commission at the ancient Ra’s Qurayyah Port.
$40 Million: The funding provided by Saudi Arabia for an industrial city project in Oman.
