The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics Exhibition (WAM Saudi 2026) has officially commenced at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre. Running from February 15–17, 2026, this landmark event represents the pinnacle of Saudi Arabia’s industrial ambitions under Vision 2030. Organized by KAOUN International (the organizers of GITEX) in association with GITEX Global, WAM Saudi is not just a trade show, it is a strategic engine for the Kingdom’s $267 billion logistics expansion.
Strategic Overview: WAM Saudi 2026 and Vision 2030
WAM Saudi 2026 serves as the primary platform for the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP). Under the patronage of H.E. Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, the exhibition brings together over 20,000 trade professionals and 350+ world-class exhibitors from 45 countries.
Event Logistics at a Glance
- Dates: February 15–17, 2026
- Location: Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre (RFECC)
- Key Partners: MODON (Strategic Partner), GITEX Global (Tech Partner), and QBN (Quantum Technology Partner).
The Core Pillars of WAM Saudi 2026
The 2026 edition has expanded into several co-located “World” hubs, each targeting a specific sector of the industrial value chain:
1. World Advanced Logistics (WAL)
In 2026, logistics in Saudi Arabia is about Intelligence, not just movement. WAL focuses on the integration of AI-driven supply chains and predictive analytics.
- Key Tech: Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Cold Chain automation for pharmaceuticals, and blockchain-enabled inventory management.
- Market Insight: Saudi Arabia aims for the logistics sector to contribute 10% of the national GDP by 2030.
2. Industry 5.0 & Smart Manufacturing
The shift from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0 is the dominant theme of 2026. This focuses on human-centric automation, where robots and humans collaborate in high-precision environments.
- Exhibitor Spotlight: Global tech giants like AWS and Infor are showcasing AI-powered digital twins that optimize factory yield in real-time.
3. The Startup Revolution: Supernova Industry X
The WAM Startups Competition is the event’s heartbeat, featuring the Supernova Industry X Pitch. Over 150+ startups are competing for $10,000 in equity-free funding, presenting solutions in:
- LogTech: Digital platforms for last-mile delivery.
- Green Manufacturing: Carbon-capture industrial tech.
- IIoT: Edge computing for 3D printing and additive manufacturing.
Conference Highlights: Voices from the Summit
The WAM Saudi Summit features a lineup of over 100 influential speakers. On Day 1 and Day 2, discussions centered on the “Economics of Resilient Supply Chains” and “Quantum Technologies in Manufacturing.”
Notable Speakers Include:
- H.E. Dr. Margarete Schramboeck: Former Minister of Economy (Austria) and Board Member at Aramco Digital.
- Andreas Jahn: Head of Government Affairs at BVMW (Germany), discussing hyperconnected global trade.
- Eng. Bader Almady: VP of Business Development at MODON, focusing on the transformation of 4,000 Saudi factories into “Future Factories.”
Navigating WAM Saudi 2026: Tips for Attendees
To maximize your experience at the Riyadh Front, follow these industry-standard recommendations:
- Use the Matchmaking App: Utilize the official GITEX-powered networking tool to schedule 1-on-1 meetings with 100+ global investors on-site.
- Focus on the Demo Zones: Don’t just listen, watch. The Industry Stage features live demos of autonomous intelligence and next-gen robotics.
- Explore the World Industrial Materials (WIM) Hub: For those in construction and aerospace, this zone highlights the shift toward sustainable, high-efficiency smart materials.
Conclusion
WAM Saudi 2026 is the definitive launchpad for the next era of industrial leadership. By uniting public-private collaborations with cutting-edge AI and Quantum tech, the event ensures that Saudi Arabia remains the premier global hub for advanced manufacturing. Whether you are an investor looking for the next LogTech unicorn or a CEO seeking Industry 5.0 solutions, WAM Saudi is where the future is being built.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How do I get a visa for WAM Saudi 2026?
Exhibitors and visitors can apply for a specialized tourist or business eVisa through the official Saudi online portal. RFECC is conveniently located near King Khalid International Airport for easy transit.
Q2: What is the significance of Industry 5.0 at this event?
Industry 5.0 emphasizes the collaboration between humans and smart systems. At WAM Saudi 2026, this is showcased through wearable exoskeleton tech and AI that supports (rather than replaces) the workforce.
Q3: Which sectors are most prominent in the 2026 logs?
Automotive, Aerospace & Defense, and Food & Beverage are the top three sectors driving a 14.78% CAGR in Saudi smart manufacturing this year.
Q4: Can startups still apply for the pitch competition?
Applications for the 2026 Supernova pitch typically close weeks before the event, but “Start-Up Pods” are often available for late-stage networking on the floor.
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