Saudi Arabia and Italy are exploring ways to enhance new economic partnerships across several different sectors. Notably, the Kingdom represents a substantial market with a population of 36 million and estimated annual growth rate of 3%. Currently, the value of Italian exports to Saudi Arabia stands is valued at SAR 31.05 billion (USD 8.28 billion). As a result, there are increasing opportunities across a variety of sectors available to start a business in Saudi Arabia.
Opportunities Available In Saudi Arabia`s Construction Market
There are considerable opportunites for Italian companies to start a business in Saudi Arabia in the Kingdoms construction market. The Big 5 Construct Saudi 2026 January exhibition in Riyadh attracted 90 Italian companies who enjoyed a prominent presence. Now in its 14th edition, the event hosted over 1,100 exhibitors from more than 50 countries. Building on the success of previous editions, the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) organised an Italian Pavilion covering 500 square metres. It incorporated two strategic areas – windows, doors and facades and marble and stone. Both pavilions featured an OpportunItaly information point and a business acceleration programme promoted by the ITA and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. These programmes are available to advise and support investors looking to start a business in Saudi Arabia.
Increased Ties Between Saudi And Italian Education And Beauty Sectors
In associated news, the recent ‘Italian Beauty Day’ event was organised by the ITA in cooperation with Cosmetica Italia, Cosmoprof and the Italian Embassy in Riyadh. It brought together an elite group of Italian companies, Saudi distributors and retailers along with sector leaders and key stakeholders. Last year, Italian cosmetic exports to the Kingdom increased, surpassing the level of SAR 1.61 billion (USD 430 million) recorded in 2024. Accordingly, considering the additional interest in the sector, there are outstanding opportunities to start a business in Saudi Arabia.
In education, Saudi`s Centre for Space Futures and Italy`s University of Bologna recently announced the signing of an MoU. The agreement will strengthen the institutions cooperation in the fields of space law, regulation and related policies. It establishes a framework for joint research, professional training, internship programmes and capacity-building initiatives.
Looking To Start A Business In Saudi Arabia? Contact Soutien Group For Support!
Soutien Group is part of a network of consultants, partners and investors. Our clients are corporate, private and international with an interest in exploring new markets. We can offer expertise in Market Research and Assessment Saudi, Saudi Business Case, Saudi Business Model Development, Feasibility Study and Business Plan Saudi, Organizational and Operational Structuring Saudi, Saudi Sponsorship and Partnership, Company Formation Saudi among others.
Please click on the link to learn more about opportunities to start a business in Saudi Arabia as well as the initiatives of Soutien Group.
