Saudi Advanced Manufacturing Center Powers Industrial Growth
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia has made a significant leap in its industrial strategy with the launch of the Advanced Manufacturing and Production Center—Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs, Eng. Khalil bin Ibrahim bin Salamah led the inauguration. The new center is a key enabler of Saudi advanced manufacturing, aiming to boost competitiveness and promote high-tech production across the Kingdom.
National Leaders Attend Launch Ceremony
The launch event brought together senior figures from both government and industry. Among the attendees were Dr. Munir Al-Desouki, President of KACST; Mohammed Al-Otaibi, Supervisor of the Research, Development and Innovation Authority; Eng. Majed Al-Argoubi, CEO of MODON; and Eng. Suliman Al-Mazroua, CEO of NIDLP. Additionally, executives from leading technology providers and industrial companies participated in the ceremony.
Aligning Innovation with Vision 2030
According to Eng. Salamah supports the goals of Vision 2030 and the National Industrial Strategy. It is designed to help Saudi Arabia become a leader in global manufacturing. Moreover, it will enhance supply chain security and strengthen export capacity in advanced sectors.
He noted that the global industry is rapidly shifting toward innovative systems. Therefore, Saudi Arabia must adopt robotics, 3D printing, simulation tools, and the Internet of Things to stay competitive.
Programs, Partnerships, and Recognition
The ceremony also recognized ten factories that met the standards of the “Industrial Lighthouses” initiative. This program, overseen by the new center, promotes the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.
In addition, officials announced the launch of IMEC, the Kingdom’s first factory for titanium powder and pure metals used in 3D printing. The facility is based at KACST and operates under the “Rafed” initiative. This program encourages the creation of innovation-based factories within academic institutions, thereby fostering a link between research and industry.
Furthermore, the center introduced the “Innovation Benchmarking Guide,” a tool for assessing industrial R&D performance. It also launched a national grant program to support technology-based manufacturing ventures.
Developing Industrial Talent
The event also marked the graduation of a new class from the National Academy for Industry. These professionals specialized in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor chip design. As a result, the center contributes to building a future-ready workforce that is aligned with the needs of Saudi Arabia’s advanced manufacturing.
Nationwide Network and Strategic Impact
The center brings all advanced manufacturing programs under one umbrella. It delivers services through a national network of capability centers that offer hands-on training, consulting, and technical support.
Moreover, the center provides industrial modernization tools, tailored services, and strategic incentives. Its primary objectives include increasing productivity, localizing sustainable technologies, and attracting advanced industry investment.
By driving innovation and supporting sector growth, the center plays a central role in the development of Saudi advanced manufacturing and the Kingdom’s long-term diversification strategy.
