Saudi Arabia Emerges as Global Connector Amid Evolving Trade

Davos, Switzerland, 23 January 2026 – At the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026, Saudi Arabia showcased its evolving role in the global economy, emphasizing its potential as a strategic connector in trade, tourism, technology, and innovation.

Trade as a Connector Economy

His Excellency Majid A. Alkassabi, Saudi Minister of Commerce, highlighted the Kingdom’s ambition to become a “connector economy” amid shifting global supply chains. Speaking in the session ‘Many Shapes of Trade’, HE Alkassabi stated:
"Trade is moving from fair trade to a managed, rule-driven model. Saudi Arabia’s strategic location and abundant resources allow us to act as a bridge connecting Africa, Europe, and Asia, positioning the Kingdom as a global logistics hub."

Tourism’s Expanding Potential

His Excellency Ahmed A. Alkhateeb, Minister of Tourism, spoke in ‘The New Geography of Travel: Elevating Destinations, Expanding Opportunity’, noting:
"UN Tourism projects global visitors to reach 2 billion by 2030, adding 500 million more travelers. This presents enormous opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s hotels, investors, and technology providers, cementing tourism as a growth engine."

Strengthening Economic Confidence

His Excellency Mohammed A. Aljadaan, Minister of Finance, emphasized:
"Our role is to provide a predictable business environment. By enhancing economic resilience, we ensure the private sector has the confidence to invest and innovate in Saudi Arabia."

Driving AI and Technology

His Excellency Abdullah A. Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, addressed advancements in AI during ‘Converging Technologies to Win’:
"The Kingdom is tackling the energy wall and memory wall in AI. We invite global partners to accelerate and adopt AI with us, positioning Saudi Arabia as the partner of choice in the Intelligence Age."

Minerals and Global Cooperation

His Excellency Bandar I. Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, spoke in ‘A Collective Voice on the Future of Minerals’:
"Saudi Arabia takes a multilateral approach, creating platforms for dialogue and partnership. The Future Minerals Forum now serves as a global hub uniting governments, industry, finance, academia, and technology leaders."

Economic Partnerships and Future Opportunities

His Excellency Faisal F. Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning, shared insights in ‘Redefining Economic Partnerships: From Dialogue to Delivery’:
"Every country can unlock its economic potential while maintaining open dialogue. Today offers a blank canvas and unmatched opportunities to design the future of global cooperation."

Innovation Collaborations

On Thursday, the Global Innovation Platform, a partnership between Saudi HoldCo and GoldenPoint Global, launched the Saudi–U.S. Innovation Partnership. Anchored by Riyadh and Austin, this initiative accelerates collaboration in life sciences, AI, and advanced manufacturing, connecting two of the world’s leading innovation ecosystems.

Additionally, Amplifai Health was recognized as a winner of WEF’s second MINDS - AI Global Alliance cohort, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s leadership in pioneering technological solutions.