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How a deepening alliance is driving regional stability, technological progress, and sustainable development
Over the past year, the relationship between Italy and Saudi Arabia has not merely strengthened—it has blossomed into a dynamic alliance marked by ambition, vision, and transformative potential. What began as a solid friendship has evolved into a multidimensional partnership spanning politics, energy, infrastructure, innovation, culture, defence, and the remarkable modernization underway in the Kingdom.
Today, the two nations are working side by side with a shared aspiration: to help shape a future rooted in stability, prosperity, sustainable development, and technological excellence, while preserving the cultural identities that define them. This common outlook naturally extends into the broader international arena. From the Mediterranean to the wider Middle East, Italy and Saudi Arabia collaborate to promote a safer and more prosperous regional order—guided by trust, mutual respect, and a strong sense of responsibility.
A powerful illustration of this cooperation can be seen in the joint efforts addressing the crisis in Gaza. Both nations strongly believe that only credible progress toward a two-state solution can bring lasting peace. Italy firmly supports the Saudi-led Global Alliance for the Two-State Solution. In parallel, Rome has expanded its humanitarian engagement through initiatives such as Food for Gaza and medical evacuations for civilians in critical condition. Italy has welcomed more Palestinians than any other Western country—1,300 people, including over 200 children in urgent need of medical care—while expressing deep gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s decisive leadership in mobilizing regional and international support for Gaza’s reconstruction.
Beyond immediate crises, Italy and Saudi Arabia recognize the deep link between economic growth and regional stability. Ensuring the security of maritime routes and the broader Middle East is a shared priority—an essential condition for the prosperity and well-being of their peoples.
Within this dynamic context, bilateral cooperation has taken on unprecedented significance. Vision 2030 is steering Saudi Arabia toward a historic transformation, and Italy sees the Kingdom as a strategic reference point in its Export Plan for high-potential non-EU markets. The numbers speak clearly: Saudi Arabia is now Italy’s second-largest export market in the Middle East and North Africa. Over the past five years, bilateral trade has grown by 67%, with Italian exports increasing by nearly 20% annually since 2022. Italian companies are playing an expanding role in key Vision 2030 projects, offering world-class expertise in sustainable infrastructure, mobility, urban design, and advanced technologies. Collaboration in renewable energy, digital innovation, food security, sports, and the creative industries continues to grow, reflecting a remarkable synergy between the two economies.
It is within this spirit of ambition and optimism that the Italy–Saudi Arabia Business Forum in Riyadh is being co-organized. On 25 November, a delegation of around 500 Italian companies and institutions will travel to the Kingdom. Building on the AlUla roundtable held during Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit and her meeting with His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, the Forum will focus on five strategic sectors: sustainable infrastructure and mobility; health and life sciences; advanced technologies and digital solutions; agri-tech and water treatment; and the fast-growing arenas of culture and sports. The objective is clear: to connect business communities, foster new partnerships, and lay the foundation for joint ventures and long-term investment within the Kingdom’s largest development projects.
Energy and technological innovation form another cornerstone of the partnership. Italian companies are actively contributing to Saudi initiatives in renewables, hydrogen, smart grids, and clean fuels. In this context, preparations are underway for the first edition of the Italy–Saudi Energy Dialogues, scheduled for 2026—a milestone that will further reinforce cooperation on the energy systems of the future.
Defense and security have also become essential elements of the strategic partnership, with Italian and Saudi companies developing innovative collaborations that strengthen both nations.
Cultural cooperation—central to Vision 2030—offers vast opportunities to create something truly unique. Italy stands ready to support the Kingdom through its exceptional expertise in heritage preservation, museum development, creative industries, and cultural innovation. In this moment of extraordinary transformation, both nations understand that the future must be built with profound respect for the past, and that cultural identity is the foundation of meaningful progress.
At this historic juncture, the partnership between Italy and Saudi Arabia has reached a level of maturity, trust, and shared ambition that allows both nations to look to the future with confidence. Together, they can serve as a global model of cooperation, innovation, and prosperity—benefiting their people, the wider Euro-Mediterranean region, and the world.
Alessandro Fiorentino