Saudi Arabia is advancing its industrial sector through the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies.
The country is moving away from traditional manufacturing, embracing automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, and data-driven systems to boost efficiency and reduce costs.
The Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources is leading this transformation with the Advanced Manufacturing and Production Center (AMPC), designed as a comprehensive ecosystem to promote smart manufacturing nationwide.
This effort is supported by collaboration with key government entities, including the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program, and the Research, Development, and Innovation Authority.
Several strategic initiatives support the 4IR vision, including:
- Future Factories Program
- Capability Centers Network
- Industrial Lighthouse Program
- Operational Excellence Program
- Additive Manufacturing Program
The Future Factories Program, launched to upgrade 4,000 factories, is central to integrating AI and automation, helping companies increase productivity and move away from low-skilled labor. Financial support is available to ease the transition for manufacturers.
Success stories, such as City Cement Company and Maram Feed Mill Factory, demonstrate tangible benefits—Maram, for example, automated its packaging lines, cutting reliance on unskilled labor by 96% and boosting profits by 25%.
The Industrial Lighthouse Program aims to position Saudi factories among the world’s leaders by joining the WEF Global Lighthouse Network, with 10 local companies already committed to transformation plans.
International collaboration is also a priority. The Ministry recently partnered with Deutsche Messe and Riyadh Exhibitions Company to host Industrial Transformation Saudi Arabia, part of a global exhibition network showcasing advancements in manufacturing.
Through these combined efforts, Saudi Arabia seeks to accelerate Industry 4.0 adoption, improve manufacturing quality, and strengthen its position as a hub for advanced, sustainable technologies. The AMPC network also offers training and advisory services to upskill the workforce and support local industry growth.
Ultimately, Saudi Arabia aims to be at the forefront of global industrial transformation, driving sustainable development and digital economic growth.