Saudi Arabia Highlights Key Maritime Transport Initiatives At London Exhibition

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through the Transport General Authority (TGA), recently hosted an international exhibition in London. This event highlighted Saudi Arabia's significant initiatives and achievements in the maritime transport sector. Senior officials and representatives from International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states attended the exhibition.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Ambassador to the United Kingdom, alongside Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and TGA Chairman. Various government entities, embassy representatives, and maritime attachés were also present. The event emphasized Saudi Arabia's role as a key player in global maritime regulations and practices.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia's maritime sector has experienced substantial growth. The number of Saudi-flagged vessels has reached 409, with a total gross tonnage surpassing 100,000 tons. The deadweight tonnage (DWT) stands at 16,583,171. These developments reflect the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities.

The exhibition provided a platform to showcase Saudi Arabia's academies and specialized centers dedicated to training seafarers, officers, and marine engineers. Initiatives aimed at localizing talent were also highlighted. Smart projects supporting automation in the sector were featured, focusing on improving operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Prince Khalid bin Bandar emphasized that the exhibition demonstrated Saudi Arabia’s dedication to international cooperation. He noted that it highlights the Kingdom’s hospitality and commitment to sustainable maritime partnerships. This high-level presence reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s active participation in international forums.

Minister Al-Jasser stated that Vision 2030 is driving Saudi Arabia towards leadership in maritime transport. Investment in talent and technology is strengthening its position as a global logistics hub. The Kingdom aims to enhance its influence within the IMO while promoting sustainability in maritime supply chains.

Focus on Human Capital and Technology

The number of registered Saudi seafarers has increased to 3,000 due to specialized programs and regulatory initiatives aimed at empowering national maritime capabilities. These efforts are part of a broader vision that includes fleet development and regulatory modernization.

Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive vision extends beyond these aspects to create an advanced global maritime system grounded in operational excellence, human capital investment, and innovative technology for a sustainable future.

This exhibition underscored Saudi Arabia's influential role within the IMO and its efforts to promote sustainability while enhancing efficiency in maritime supply chains. It reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to being an active partner in the international maritime system.

With inputs from SPA