Collaborative efforts between Saudi Arabia and Spain aim to strengthen industrial cooperation and diversify the economy through drone technology in line with Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia and Spain are taking significant steps toward collaboration in key technological and industrial sectors, particularly in drone technology, automotive components, and geological research. The Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, recently led high-level discussions with Spanish business leaders in Madrid, aiming to bolster industrial partnerships and advance Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

As part of this engagement, Alkhorayef highlighted the importance of localising production in heavy-duty drones, automotive parts, and shipbuilding supplies. These initiatives align with the Kingdom’s broader National Industrial Strategy, which seeks to reduce the country’s reliance on oil and increase industrial capacity. By encouraging investment in technology and diversifying its industrial base, Saudi Arabia hopes to enhance its gross domestic product (GDP) and non-oil exports.

During his visit, Alkhorayef met with several Spanish companies. This included Drone Hopper, a startup known for developing unmanned drones with multi-rotor systems, and Ferroglobe, a silicon metal supplier. He also held talks with Reinosa Forgings & Castings, which specialises in producing large-scale forgings, and IDIADA, a firm known for its expertise in the automotive industry. Alkhorayef emphasised the potential for Saudi Arabia to become a key partner for Spanish firms in these sectors, stressing the Kingdom’s strategic location and commitment to industrial growth.

In the realm of mining and geological research, Alkhorayef met with Ana Maria Alonso-Zarza, Director of the Spanish Geological and Mining Institute. The discussion centred around opportunities for geological research, with a particular focus on acquiring high-resolution technical data that could benefit both scientific and industrial projects. This engagement complements Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to enhance its mining sector, which is critical to achieving Vision 2030 objectives.

Alkhorayef’s meetings also extended to Spanish government officials, including Spain’s Industry and Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu and Economy, Trade, and Business Minister Carlos Cuerpo. The talks focused on strengthening economic ties between the two nations, with an emphasis on increasing Spanish investment in the Kingdom’s industrial and mining sectors. Alkhorayef outlined the incentives available to foreign investors and reiterated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering international partnerships that align with its economic diversification strategy.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia and Spain are exploring opportunities to collaborate in the energy and logistics sectors. Alkhorayef met with Spanish Minister of State for Energy, Sara Aagesen Munoz, to discuss enhancing mining cooperation. Mining is a key focus for Saudi Arabia, as the sector plays a vital role in the country’s economic transformation under Vision 2030.

These discussions reflect Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to engaging with global partners, reinforcing its position as a major player in industrial and technological sectors. By deepening ties with Spain, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself to leverage international expertise in pursuit of its ambitious Vision 2030 goals.