Global Logistics Forum announces key partners on eve of inaugural event

RIYADH: Shipping firm MAERSK, aviation conglomerate Saudia Group and delivery company Aramex have been confirmed as key partners of the Global Logistics Forum, set to take place in Riyadh from Oct. 12-14.

The event, hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services, will serve as a platform for uniting partners to enhance supply chain efficiency, resilience, sustainability, and profitability, according to a press release.

The inaugural forum will host 10,000 attendees and see more than 120 speakers, including world leaders, ministers, business chiefs, and experts in the logistics sector contributing to the event.

The event comes as Saudi Arabia places an increased focus on its logistics industry, in line with the Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy.

The sector is surging, with a 76 percent increase in new businesses registered in the second quarter of 2024, making logistics the fastest-growing sphere in the Kingdom. 

Rumaih bin Muhammad Al-Rumaih, the Kingdom’s vice minister of Transport and Logistic Services, said the forum marks a key waypoint on the journey of the global industry. 

“From the food we eat, to the gifts we give, and to everything in between, our modern world depends on the global logistics network. 

“At the Global Logistics Forum, we will set the future direction for this most critical industry.

“We are proud to share the many global and regional logistics leaders who are partnering with us for the inaugural GLF, recognizing the importance of this moment to share the future map of global logistics.”

Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of Saudia Group, said that being a Presenting Partner for the event in Riyadh is testament to his company’s commitment to Saudi Vision 2030. 

“This forum is a pivotal moment for Saudia Group to engage with global leaders and contribute to the Kingdom's ambition of becoming a leading logistics hub. Our participation underscores our dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration in the logistics sector," he added.

Group CEO of Aramex, Othman Aljeda, said that the company “was thrilled to embark on this collaborative journey with the Global Logistics Forum.”

He added: “Earlier this year, Aramex opened a new regional hub in Riyadh, and our partnership at GLF will ensure that we are contributing our expertise and supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by fostering greater collaboration, operational excellence, and sustainable growth in the region's logistics sector."

The Global Logistics Forum will also serve as a “launching pad” for MoUs between industry leaders in global logistics, formalizing a more connected sector, and in turn ensuring a more resilient and efficient network of global connectivity, according to a release.