News DeskRiyadh, Saudi Arabia – The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics (WAM) Saudi Summit & Expo 2026 wrapped up this week after three days of dynamic discussions, deal-making and technology showcases that underscored Saudi Arabia’s accelerating industrial evolution under Vision 2030.
Hosted by KAOUN International in strategic collaboration with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON), the event brought together manufacturing and logistics leaders from more than 45 countries. Participants used the platform not only to exchange ideas but also to forge partnerships and explore concrete investment opportunities within one of the world’s fastest-growing industrial markets.
Speaking at the close of the exhibition, Alex Nicholl, Vice-President of KAOUN International, highlighted the breadth of participation this year. “We have successfully gathered the entire ecosystem under one roof,” he said. “Alongside visitors, we welcomed serious buyers — both international and local — reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a rapidly expanding hub for industrial growth.”
The final day spotlighted innovation and entrepreneurship, with the 1Tank Pitch Competition — organised by 1trepreneur — connecting emerging startups with investors, government representatives and industry enablers. The Supernova Pitch Competition Awards Ceremony also took place, where Digital Petroleum secured the top honour along with a USD 10,000 prize.
Fakhreddine Mrabet, Chief Technology Officer at Digital Petroleum, described the recognition as a milestone for the company. “Winning the Supernova Pitch Competition validates our mission to digitise and decarbonise industrial processes through AI-driven solutions across oil and gas, water utilities and manufacturing,” he said, while acknowledging the support of the WAM organising team.
Beyond innovation showcases, the summit served as a stage for strategic collaboration. Several memoranda of understanding were formalised during the event, including a partnership between BHAG Digital and AI-LOG Middle East aimed at accelerating AI adoption in smart manufacturing. BHAG Digital also entered into an agreement with Trust Angle to expand automation capabilities and strengthen IoT integration across industrial operations.
In another collaboration, TAKLEES EXPRO and PNT Certificate signed an agreement to streamline certification issuance and specialised testing services, a move expected to deliver added value for clients in the sector.
Entrepreneurship remained a central theme throughout the exhibition. The Investor Programme connected high-potential startups with senior executives and venture capital players, while flagship platforms such as the Supernova Industry X Pitch Competition, River Venture Studio Pitch Competition and 1Tank highlighted some of the region’s most promising innovators.
Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions, WAM Saudi 2026 also explored emerging industry trends, including human-centric automation, Industry 4.0 transformation, quantum technologies in manufacturing and the growing case for sustainable production. Expert-led sessions examined global best practices, the rise of digital twins in industrial decision-making and the expanding role of artificial intelligence in shaping next-generation manufacturing ecosystems.
With participation from international thought leaders, policymakers and sector specialists, the summit positioned itself as a key forum for shaping the future of advanced manufacturing. The event was delivered in partnership with INSME, CyberTech Acceleration, 1trepreneur and IQBN, supported by strategic partner MODON and major sponsors including SIDF, AWS and Infor.
As the curtains closed on WAM Saudi 2026, the exhibition left behind a clear message: Saudi Arabia’s industrial transformation is gathering momentum — and global stakeholders are keen to be part of the journey.
