Saudi Arabia will host two major international trade gatherings in Riyadh from 29 November to 1 December, 2026. Specifically, the Kingdom presents the second edition of the Global Logistics Forum (GLF) alongside the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum (GSCF). Both events will run under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center (KAICC).
Consequently, these co-located gatherings solidify Saudi Arabia’s growing influence across global logistics, maritime shipping, and international commerce.
Unifying Global Trade Leaders
Why it matters: Global supply chains face unprecedented operational disruptions, regulatory changes, and environmental challenges today. Therefore, Saudi Arabia offers an essential international platform for world leaders, trade ministers, and corporate executives to shape collaborative solutions.
The Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services organizes the Global Logistics Forum to drive digital sector innovation. Meanwhile, the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) partners with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development for the supply chain summit.
The big picture: Saudi Vision 2030 actively transforms the Kingdom into a premier global logistics hub connecting three continents. Furthermore, the country occupies a strategic geographic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa. This unique position enables Saudi Arabia to facilitate more than 13 percent of total global trade flows daily.
Additionally, major investments in port infrastructure, airport expansion, land crossings, and digital logistics platforms yield rapid progress across national supply networks. These comprehensive national initiatives establish the Kingdom as a reliable, highly influential partner in modern international commerce.
By the numbers:
- 13,000+ industry experts attended the inaugural Global Logistics Forum in Riyadh in October 2024.
- 140 global leaders spoke across diverse panel sessions during the initial gathering.
- 80 international exhibitors showcased cutting-edge solutions from over 30 participating nations.
- SAR16 billion ($4.3 billion) represented the total value across 67 signed strategic commercial agreements.
Expanding International Partnerships
What they’re saying: Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser previously announced the host selection during the sixteenth UNCTAD session in Geneva. “Hosting the forum reaffirms Saudi Arabia’s leading global position in supporting international trade,” Al-Jasser stated. He emphasized that the Kingdom proactively strengthens cooperation and logistical connectivity among all participating nations.
Furthermore, the 2026 UNCTAD forum builds directly upon outcomes from the first summit in Bridgetown, Barbados, to construct resilient global supply chains.
Between the lines: Saudi ports maintain exceptional operational efficiency rankings among global maritime terminals today. Moreover, pioneering green transition initiatives highlight Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to sustainable, environmentally responsible commercial expansion.
The upcoming forums will specifically focus on aiding disproportionately affected developing economies. Consequently, participants will address severe structural challenges in least developed countries, landlocked developing nations, and small island developing states.
What’s next: Delegations, institutional leaders, and corporate specialists will gather at the Riyadh event late in 2026. Together, participants will formulate action plans, launch joint digital initiatives, and sign strategic trade partnerships.
In addition, the co-located forums will advance key Sustainable Development Goals relating to economic growth, industrial innovation, and modern infrastructure. Saudi Arabia’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy continues to propel the sector toward international leadership. Through ongoing infrastructure projects and regulatory reforms, the Kingdom fosters seamless global connectivity.
Interested global trade organizations and official international representatives can register online through official government channels to participate in this transformative global event.
Ultimately, Saudi Arabia establishes vital commercial pathways that enhance global supply chain resilience, safety, and long-term prosperity for coming decades.
