General Information
Official Name: Italian Republic
Capital: Rome
Official Language: Italian
Population: approximately 60 million
Currency: Euro (€)
Form of Government: Parliamentary Republic
General Information
Official Name: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)
Capital: Riyadh
Population: ~36 million (2025)
Official Language: Arabic
Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Political System: Absolute monarchy ruled by the Al Saud family
Economic Context
Italy is the third-largest economy in the Eurozone and one of the leading advanced economies in Europe.
GDP (2024 estimate): approximately €2.5 trillion
GDP per capita: approximately €41,000
Services sector: around 70% of GDP, followed by industry and agriculture
Economic Context
Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the Middle East and one of the most significant globally, thanks to its vast oil and gas reserves.
As a G20 member and a leader within OPEC+, it plays a decisive role in international energy stability.
The Vision 2030 program, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to:
A.Diversified economy by reducing reliance on the oil sector.
B.Develop key industries such as tourism, infrastructure, fintech, logistics, and renewable energy.
C.Promote private sector participation and attract foreign investment.
Strategic Sectors
Industry and Manufacturing: automotive, mechanical engineering, chemicals, fashion, and design:
- Tourism: main source of foreign revenue; art, culture, seaside, and mountains
- Agriculture and Agri-food: wine, olive oil, typical products with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) / Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
- Technology and Innovation: growing digital sector, tech start-ups, and green economy
Strategic Sectors
Energy: Global leadership in oil and gas, with significant investments in renewable energy (solar and wind).
Tourism: Gradual opening to non-religious international tourism, with large-scale projects such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project.
Finance and Technology: Development of fintech hubs, digitalisation of services, and smart cities.
Infrastructure and Logistics: Targeted investments to establish the Kingdom as a central node in global trade.
General Information
Official Name: Italian Republic
Capital: Rome
Official Language: Italian
Population: approximately 60 million
Currency: Euro (€)
Form of Government: Parliamentary Republic
Economic Context
Italy is the third-largest economy in the Eurozone and one of the leading advanced economies in Europe.
GDP (2024 estimate): approximately €2.5 trillion
GDP per capita: approximately €41,000
Services sector: around 70% of GDP, followed by industry and agriculture
Strategic Sectors
Industry and Manufacturing: automotive, mechanical engineering, chemicals, fashion, and design:
- Tourism: main source of foreign revenue; art, culture, seaside, and mountains
- Agriculture and Agri-food: wine, olive oil, typical products with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) / Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
- Technology and Innovation: growing digital sector, tech start-ups, and green economy
General Information
Official Name: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)
Capital: Riyadh
Population: ~36 million (2025)
Official Language: Arabic
Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Political System: Absolute monarchy ruled by the Al Saud family
Economic Context
Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the Middle East and one of the most significant globally, thanks to its vast oil and gas reserves.
As a G20 member and a leader within OPEC+, it plays a decisive role in international energy stability.
The Vision 2030 program, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to:
A.Diversified economy by reducing reliance on the oil sector.
B.Develop key industries such as tourism, infrastructure, fintech, logistics, and renewable energy.
C.Promote private sector participation and attract foreign investment.
Strategic Sectors
Energy: Global leadership in oil and gas, with significant investments in renewable energy (solar and wind).
Tourism: Gradual opening to non-religious international tourism, with large-scale projects such as NEOM and the Red Sea Project.
Finance and Technology: Development of fintech hubs, digitalisation of services, and smart cities.
Infrastructure and Logistics: Targeted investments to establish the Kingdom as a central node in global trade.
In 2023, trade reached USD 10.8 billion, positioning Italy among the Kingdom’s top European partners.
Italian exports totalled USD 6–6.7 billion in 2024, up 28%, led by machinery, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, transport vehicles, and metals.
Imports from Saudi Arabia, worth USD 4.4 billion, mainly include fuels and petrochemical products, vital to Italy’s energy supply chain.
Beyond trade, coo-peration is expanding in investment and innovation. A €3 billion MoU signed in 2024 between PIF and SACE supports joint industrial and infra-structure projects.
Notably, Italian marble and stone technology exports rose 45% in 2024, exceeding €100 million, reflecting growing Saudi demand for Italian craftsmanship and advanced technology.
Despite strong progress, untapped potential remains — estimated at €830 million in additional export opportunities across machinery, consumer goods, and high-value manufacturing.
KPI – Italy–Saudi Arabia Trade
Growth in Italian exports to KSA
Italian exports to KSA
KSA exports to Italian
Industrial relations
Italian companies in KSA
In 2023, trade reached USD 10.8 billion, positioning Italy among the Kingdom’s top European partners.
Italian exports totalled USD 6–6.7 billion in 2024, up 28%, led by machinery, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, transport vehicles, and metals.
Imports from Saudi Arabia, worth USD 4.4 billion, mainly include fuels and petrochemical products, vital to Italy’s energy supply chain.
Beyond trade, coo-peration is expanding in investment and innovation. A €3 billion MoU signed in 2024 between PIF and SACE supports joint industrial and infra-structure projects.
Notably, Italian marble and stone technology exports rose 45% in 2024, exceeding €100 million, reflecting growing Saudi demand for Italian craftsmanship and advanced technology.
Despite strong progress, untapped potential remains — estimated at €830 million in additional export opportunities across machinery, consumer goods, and high-value manufacturing.
KPI – Italy–Saudi Arabia Trade
Growth in Italian exports to KSA
Italian exports to KSA
KSA exports from Italian
Industrial relations
Italian companies in KSA
Sectors of Interest for Saudi Investors in Italy
Sectors of Interest for Italian Investors in Saudi Arabia
1.Energy and Green Transition – investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green technologies.
2.Infrastructure and Construction – participation in major development and renovation projects.
3.Tourism and Hospitality – acquisition and development of hotels, resorts, cultural sites, and luxury accommodations.
4.Agri-food and Food Tech – production, processing, and distribution of high-quality food products.
5.Fashion and Luxury – high-end Italian brands, design, and lifestyle.
6.Healthcare and Biotech – private hospitals, research centers, and advanced medical technologies.
7.Advanced Industry and Manufacturing – strategic sectors such as machinery, mechanical engineering, automotive, and robotics.
1.Traditional and Renewable Energy – petroleum, gas, solar, and wind energy projects.
2.Infrastructure and Construction – roads, ports, airports, and smart city projects (e.g., NEOM, The Line).
3.Mechanical and Industrial Technologies – machinery, plants, and industrial automation.
4.Design, Fashion, and Luxury – furniture, fashion, jewellery, and
high-end products.
5.Food & Beverage – Italian speciality products, restaurants, and food distribution.
6.Transport and Logistics – mobility systems, port management, and supply chain solutions.
7.Services and Consulting – education, ICT, financial services, and complex project management.
Top 10 Reasons for Saudi Companies to Invest in Italy
Top 10 Reasons for Italian Companies to Invest in Saudi Arabia
Top 10 Reasons for Saudi Companies to Invest in Italy
Top 10 Reasons for Italian Companies to Invest in Saudi Arabia
1.Strategic Gateway to Europe
Italy offers direct access to the EU single market and serves as a logistics and industrial hub connecting Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
2.Advanced Industrial Ecosystem
A global leader in manufacturing, machinery, design, and innovation — ideal for partnerships and technology transfer.
3.Strong Sectors for Collaboration
High-potential fields include renewable
energy, agribusiness, tourism, luxury
goods, healthcare, automotive, and
infrastructure.
4.Excellence in Design and Engineering
Italian know-how in design, construction, and industrial technology complements Saudi development goals under Vision 2030.
5.Investment-Friendly Environment
Competitive incentives, regional support programs, and a pro-investment government strategy attract foreign capital.
6.Highly Skilled Workforce
Italy combines strong technical education with creativity, offering skilled professionals
across industrial and service sectors.
7.Innovation and R&D Leadership
Home to world-class research centres, startups, and innovation districts that welcome foreign partnerships and co-development projects.
8.Cultural and Lifestyle Appeal
Italy’s cultural prestige, quality of life
and global image enhance the visibility
and brand value of Saudi
investors.
9.Synergies with Saudi Vision 2030
Italian expertise supports diversification
goals in energy transition
smart cities, tourism, and cultural
industries.
10.Stable and Transparent Framework
As a founding member of the EU with a
strong legal system and mature
institutions, Italy ensures long-term
stability and investor protection
1.Strong Economic Growth
Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing G20 economies, driven by Vision 2030 diversification and major investment programs across multiple sectors.
2.Strategic Geographic Position
Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Kingdom offers access to more than 70% of global markets within an 8-hour flight.
3.Vision 2030 Opportunities
Government-backed reforms are opening up new sectors — including renewable energy, tourism, manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and technology — that are ideal for Italian expertise.
4.Attractive Investment Environment
The Saudi Investment Law guarantees 100% foreign ownership, simplified licensing procedures, and robust investor protection frameworks.
5.Large and Growing Market
With over 36 million people, a young population, and high purchasing power, KSA offers strong demand for quality products and services.
6.Major Infrastructure Projects
Mega-projects like NEOM, The Line, Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya present significant opportunities for Italian engineering, design, and construction firms.
7.Government Incentives and Support
Competitive tax policies, financing programs, and the support of institutions such as the Ministry of Investment (MISA) make entry easier for foreign businesses.
8.Gateway to the GCC and Middle East
Investing in Saudi Arabia provides a strategic base for regional expansion across the Gulf Cooperation Council and North Africa.
9.Cultural and Business Affinity
Italian design, technology, and lifestyle are highly appreciated in Saudi Arabia, creating a natural synergy for partnerships and joint ventures.
10.Stable and Predictable Environment
The Kingdom offers political stability, a robust banking system, and continuous legal reforms that enhance transparency and investor confidence.
1.Strategic Gateway to Europe
Italy offers direct access to the EU single market and serves as a logistics and industrial hub connecting Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
2.Advanced Industrial Ecosystem
A global leader in manufacturing, machinery, design, and innovation — ideal for partnerships and technology transfer.
3.Strong Sectors for Collaboration
High-potential fields include renewable
energy, agribusiness, tourism, luxury
goods, healthcare, automotive, and
infrastructure.
4.Excellence in Design and Engineering
Italian know-how in design, construction, and industrial technology complements Saudi development goals under Vision 2030.
5.Investment-Friendly Environment
Competitive incentives, regional support programs, and a pro-investment government strategy attract foreign capital.
6.Highly Skilled Workforce
Italy combines strong technical education with creativity, offering skilled professionals
across industrial and service sectors.
7.Innovation and R&D Leadership
Home to world-class research centres, startups, and innovation districts that welcome foreign partnerships and co-development projects.
8.Cultural and Lifestyle Appeal
Italy’s cultural prestige, quality of life
and global image enhance the visibility
and brand value of Saudi
investors.
9.Synergies with Saudi Vision 2030
Italian expertise supports diversification
goals in energy transition
smart cities, tourism, and cultural
industries.
10.Stable and Transparent Framework
As a founding member of the EU with a
strong legal system and mature
institutions, Italy ensures long-term
stability and investor protection
1.Strong Economic Growth
Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing G20 economies, driven by Vision 2030 diversification and major investment programs across multiple sectors.
2.Strategic Geographic Position
Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Kingdom offers access to more than 70% of global markets within an 8-hour flight.
3.Vision 2030 Opportunities
Government-backed reforms are opening up new sectors — including renewable energy, tourism, manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and technology — that are ideal for Italian expertise.
4.Attractive Investment Environment
The Saudi Investment Law guarantees 100% foreign ownership, simplified licensing procedures, and robust investor protection frameworks.
5.Large and Growing Market
With over 36 million people, a young population, and high purchasing power, KSA offers strong demand for quality products and services.
6.Major Infrastructure Projects
Mega-projects like NEOM, The Line, Red Sea Project, and Qiddiya present significant opportunities for Italian engineering, design, and construction firms.
7.Government Incentives and Support
Competitive tax policies, financing programs, and the support of institutions such as the Ministry of Investment (MISA) make entry easier for foreign businesses.
8.Gateway to the GCC and Middle East
Investing in Saudi Arabia provides a strategic base for regional expansion across the Gulf Cooperation Council and North Africa.
9.Cultural and Business Affinity
Italian design, technology, and lifestyle are highly appreciated in Saudi Arabia, creating a natural synergy for partnerships and joint ventures.
10.Stable and Predictable Environment
The Kingdom offers political stability, a robust banking system, and continuous legal reforms that enhance transparency and investor confidence.