In a landmark event that signals a new era of strategic partnership, the Saudi-French Investment Forum concluded in Riyadh, bringing together top-tier government officials, industry leaders, and visionary entrepreneurs from both nations. Under the compelling slogan “Saudi Vision 2030 – France’s Plan 2030: Mutual Investment across Visions,” the forum emerged as a powerful platform for cross-border economic collaboration.
A Symphony of Strategic Alignment
French President Emmanuel Macron’s keynote address set the tone for a transformative dialogue, emphasizing the profound synergy between France 2030 and Saudi Vision 2030. “Investing here is investing in the cornerstone of the whole region,” Macron declared, underscoring the strategic significance of this bilateral engagement.
Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unprecedented potential of this partnership. “We stand today at a new era of partnership,” he stated, pointing to the alignment of interests and complementary capabilities that are elevating Saudi-French relations to unprecedented heights
Investment Landscape: Beyond Boundaries
The forum showcased a remarkable spectrum of collaborative opportunities, with agreements spanning critical sectors including:
- Green Energy and Sustainability: Agreements were signed with EDF and TotalEnergies to develop solar power projects, reinforcing the Kingdom’s renewable energy ambitions.
- Circular Economy: A partnership between Suez and the Saudi Investment Recycling Company aims to promote sustainable waste solutions across Riyadh and AlUla.
- Aviation and Logistics: Air France KLM and Saudia inked a significant maintenance agreement, while other deals addressed transportation infrastructure development.
- Technology and Innovation: Discussions centered on harnessing digital transformation to foster mutual growth.
Numbers Tell the Story
The economic metrics are compelling. French foreign direct investment in Saudi Arabia reached an impressive SR11.2 billion in 2023, with French companies securing 503 investment licenses. Notably, 117 of these licenses were issued in 2024 alone, with 33 companies establishing regional headquarters in the Kingdom.
A Vision of Mutual Growth
The forum transcended traditional investment discussions, featuring panel sessions on knowledge transfer, green energy, cultural exchange, and urbanization trends. It represented more than a business event—it was a strategic blueprint for regional economic metamorphosis.
As Marc Ferracci, France’s Minister Delegate for Industry, articulated, these are not merely plans but “transformative blueprints designed to tackle the challenges of our time while creating sustainable growth for the future.”
The Larger Context
Saudi Arabia emerges as a dynamic global investment hub, strategically positioned at the crossroads of three continents. With groundbreaking reforms and a commitment to diversification, the Kingdom offers investors a unique combination of profitability, stability, and expansive market access.
The Saudi-French Investment Forum has not just facilitated transactions—it has laid the groundwork for a robust, forward-looking economic partnership that promises to reshape regional dynamics in the years to come.
