Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress Day 1Wednesday, 1 October 2025 - AT (Arabian Time, GMT+03:00)

Shipping is an industry increasingly under pressure to withstand and adapt to rapidly changing realities. Key chokepoints like the Suez and Panama Canals are increasingly vulnerable to geopolitical tensions, conflicts and climate change. These disruptions are extending shipping routes, straining supply chains and raising costs, with profound impacts on food security, energy supplies and the global economy, as over 80% of world trade volume is carried by sea.

What we have is the picture of the most dynamic and complex landscape for trade and global shipping industry.

We ask our panel to give their thoughts on five major issues, to set the scene for our two-day agenda:

1. Global Supply Chain Disruptions

2. Decarbonisation & Regulatory Pressure

3. Digitalization & Cybersecurity

4. Safety and Strategic Vulnerabilities

5. Opportunities in the GCC and in the Kingdom, specifically

The offshore energy sector in the GCC is evolving rapidly, with Saudi Arabia at the forefront of this transformation. Through strategic investments in key fields like Marjan, Safaniya, and Jafurah, the Kingdom is reinforcing its position as a global energy leader while integrating advanced technologies and infrastructure to boost long-term capacity and resilience. These projects are central to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, supporting energy security and economic growth both regionally and globally.

Beyond hydrocarbons, Saudi Arabia is redefining the offshore space through diversification efforts like “The Rig” — a world-first offshore tourism destination — and increased exploration of renewables and maritime innovation. As the Kingdom pushes the boundaries of offshore development, it sets a compelling example for the broader GCC. This session explores how Saudi Arabia’s offshore ambitions are reshaping the region’s energy landscape and creating new opportunities across industries.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly advancing its port infrastructure as a core pillar of Vision 2030, aiming to become a global logistics hub. Major projects like the expansion of Jeddah Islamic Port, upgrades at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, and the development of Oxagon Port in NEOM highlight the Kingdom’s focus on increasing capacity, efficiency, and technological integration. These initiatives support broader goals of economic diversification, supply chain resilience, and enhanced global trade connectivity.

Across the GCC, countries are making parallel investments to modernize ports and strengthen their positions in global maritime logistics. From the UAE’s Jebel Ali Port to Qatar’s Hamad Port and Oman’s Duqm, the region is building a highly connected and competitive port ecosystem. This session will examine how Saudi Arabia, and its neighbours are leveraging infrastructure, innovation, and strategic partnerships to lead the next wave of port development in the global South.

Saudi Arabia is driving a major energy transition aligned with Vision 2030, targeting 50% renewable electricity by 2030 and investing $270 billion in solar, wind, and green hydrogen projects. Flagship initiatives include the 1.5 GW Sudair Solar PV Project and the NEOM Green Hydrogen Project. The Saudi Green Initiative aims to cut carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually and plant 10 billion trees.

Across the GCC, countries are also ramping up renewables and clean energy efforts. The UAE leads with large-scale solar projects like the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, Qatar expands LNG while exploring solar, and Oman is advancing its green hydrogen roadmap. Collectively, the region plans to add about 66 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, reflecting a strong push toward sustainable energy and economic diversification.

Saudi Arabia is driving a major energy transition aligned with Vision 2030, targeting 50% renewable electricity by 2030 and investing $270 billion in solar, wind, and green hydrogen projects. Flagship initiatives include the 1.5 GW Sudair Solar PV Project and the NEOM Green Hydrogen Project. The Saudi Green Initiative aims to cut carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually and plant 10 billion trees.

Across the GCC, countries are also ramping up renewables and clean energy efforts. The UAE leads with large-scale solar projects like the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, Qatar expands LNG while exploring solar, and Oman is advancing its green hydrogen roadmap. Collectively, the region plans to add about 66 GW of renewable capacity by 2030, reflecting a strong push toward sustainable energy and economic diversification.