The 28th World Investment Conference (WIC28), organized by Invest Saudi and the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA), concluded in Riyadh with a strong emphasis on international collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the event highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and sustainable economic growth.
Visionary Leadership Driving Success
HE Khalid A. Al-Falih, Minister of Investment of Saudi Arabia, expressed gratitude for the Crown Prince’s visionary leadership, which has played a pivotal role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s investment landscape. He stated:
“Over the past three days, we have addressed critical challenges in global investment and explored the opportunities it offers. From leveraging digital transformation to promoting sustainable growth, WIC28 has demonstrated the power of collaboration, innovation, and resilience.
“Guided by Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is cementing its position as a global economic leader, building partnerships that transcend borders and industries. This event has showcased how strategic alliances, localized value chains, and cutting-edge technologies can create significant economic impact. The knowledge and agreements from WIC28 will inspire transformative investments and drive sustainable growth worldwide.”
Conference Highlights
Under the theme “Harnessing Digital Transformation and Sustainable Growth,” WIC28 facilitated robust discussions on challenges and opportunities in digital transformation, sustainability, and local value chains. The conference also underscored Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 as a framework for global partnerships, technological advancement, and sustainable development.
HE Bandar Ibrahim Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, participated in a panel discussion titled “Strategic Alliances: Leveraging Partnerships for Investment Success.” He emphasized the Kingdom’s focus on designing activities to enhance international collaboration, stating:
“The question is not whether collaboration should happen, but how to implement it effectively and identify concepts that benefit all parties involved.”
He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s advanced digital and physical infrastructure, which supports manufacturing, supply chains, and logistics, enabling investors to reduce costs. “We have also approved three economic zones offering unique benefits, providing access to local and global markets,” he added.
Key Sessions and Initiatives
The conference featured diverse sessions, including:
- “Crossing Borders”: Discussions on transparent collaboration and regulatory cohesion.
- “To Get There First, Finish First”: A focus on operational excellence at Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs), emphasizing governance, efficiency, and technology for enhancing the investor experience.
- “Ready, Set, Go!”: Showcasing Saudi Arabia’s efforts to attract investments in advanced industries and renewable energy, highlighting competitive advantages such as innovative incentives and a strategic location.
Saudi Arabia’s Global Investment Strategy
With initiatives like the Global Supply Chain Resilience Initiative, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as an attractive investment destination. The country is leveraging its Vision 2030 blueprint to drive technological innovation and sustainable development while fostering strategic alliances across borders and industries.
WIC28 reaffirmed the Kingdom’s role as a leader in shaping the future of global investment, demonstrating its dedication to building an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economy.