The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) is taking part in the Third Saudi International Maritime Forum, held under the theme "Maritime Security in the Age of Artificial Intelligence – Trends and Threats" by the Royal Saudi Naval Forces under the patronage of Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, according to a GAMI press release.
The release said that the forum, taking place from November 19 to 21 in Dhahran, was inaugurated by Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant-General Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili; the opening ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, heads of delegations, and senior executives from local and international companies working in the maritime sector. It will address key developments and issues related to regional and international maritime security, while also highlighting local and global newest technologies, equipment, and maritime systems.
GAMI's Deputy Governor for Strategic Planning and Execution Eng. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Hammad inaugurated GAMI's pavilion at the exhibition accompanying the forum, deputizing for GAMI Governor Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali.
"The participation of GAMI as a diamond sponsor of the forum reflects its efforts to empower local manufacturing and achieve strategic objectives in the maritime industries sector. GAMI is engaged in programs aimed at localizing weapons, ammunition, and various types of launchers," the release said.
GAMI showcases its achievements in the field of maritime industries in its pavilion at the accompanying exhibition. These include the local manufacturing and maintenance of military ships and boats, the development of specialized capabilities for constructing hulls, and the integration of systems.
GAMI, said the release, is dedicated to advancing the maritime sector, recognized as a strategic component of the military and security industries of the Kingdom. This is achieved through legislation, policies, systems, and regulations designed to foster independence and sovereignty in this essential domain.
GAMI facilitates local manufacturing and maintenance of military vessels, while also promoting the transfer of manufacturing technologies in related areas.
The release also emphasized that GAMI is committed to developing supply chains and integrating both primary and secondary systems. It aims to qualify national personnel and create local employment opportunities, as well as to enhance export potential. As such, this sector serves as a crucial foundation for bolstering the national economy and advancing maritime industrial capabilities, ultimately contributing to the localization process.

Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali announced that the localization rate of military spending has reached 19.35%, compared to 4% in 2018. The goal is to achieve over 50% localization of government spending on military equipment and services by 2030. Additionally, the number of licensed and authorized establishments in the military industries sector has increased to 296 by the third quarter of 2024.
He highlighted the GAMI's efforts in establishing supply chains within the military industries sector and enhancing military procurement from local companies, amounting to SAR13 billion. This includes the production of locally manufactured drones for field operations, sustainability companies for various defence systems, and the manufacturing of fast interceptor boats.
‏This statement was made by Eng. Al-Ohali during the panel discussion titled "Integration of Government Efforts in Developing Local Content," which took place as part of the Local Content Forum 2024 held in Riyadh.
‏He also pointed out that local content development is one of the key priorities and objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. GAMI has been actively working towards this goal, achieving a local content percentage of 38% among companies operating in the military industries sector. This contribution is estimated to amount to SAR5 billion in total GDP.
Furthermore, 11 policies and regulations have been launched concerning the legislative framework of the military industries sector. These aim to enhance governance within the sector, boost investor confidence, increase local content rates, and build new capabilities in manufacturing and service provision. This initiative not only contributes to local content but also creates numerous high-quality job opportunities.
‏The governor emphasized the commitment to enhancing local content by signing over four framework agreements encompassing 70 categories. Additionally, approximately 80% of expenditures on military apparel, equipment, weapons, and ammunition are included, with the total value of contracts estimated at SAR1 billion, achieving a savings rate of 20%. The volume of these agreements is anticipated to grow to SAR1.6 billion, with the entire amount being spent within the local market.
He also highlighted the support for local manufacturers in facilitating the acquisition of licenses and creating an attractive investment environment that bolsters both national and international companies to enhance local content through various initiatives. These initiatives include implementing a zero VAT on locally manufactured military goods, financial incentives, and preparing industrial sites. He said GAMI is working on signing over 53 industrial participation programs valued at nearly SAR35 billion with both local and international companies, including approximately SAR13 billion in purchase orders for local firms.
‏Al-Ohali emphasized the importance of leveraging digital transformation technologies to develop local products that meet the needs of the military market. This initiative includes the launch of a unified platform for military industries, which serves as a consolidated framework for all services provided to beneficiaries. The platform aims to automate all services and utilize the latest technological advancements, data science, and artificial intelligence for various tasks, including forecasting demand for military products and services. This effort contributes to building local manufacturing capabilities.
Additionally, GAMI collaborates with the General Authority for Defense Development's (GADD) platform on research and development programs for defence products, taking advantage of the latest digital transformation technologies and reverse engineering.
The human resources strategy for the military industries sector was launched in 2022, alongside several national initiatives. The most notable was the establishment of the National Academy for Military Industries, which aims to accommodate 2,000 students annually in technical and engineering disciplines. This includes a scholarship and delegation program, as well as educational and training programs that have benefited over 850 employees in the private sector.

His Excellency Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz bin Al-Ohali, Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), confirmed that military spending in Saudi Arabia has witnessed an annual growth of 4.5% since 1960, reaching $75.8 billion in 2024, making it the fifth largest country in the world and the first in the Arab world in terms of military spending. These expenses constitute 3.1% of total global military spending, which amounts to $2.44 trillion. His Excellency pointed out that the Kingdom has allocated $78 billion to the military sector in the 2025 budget, which constitutes 21% of total government spending and 7.1% of Saudi Arabia’s GDP.

This statement was made during his speech at the 25th Global Defense and Aerospace Industry Strategies Conference held in Antalya, Turkey. The event is organized by the Defence and Aerospace Industry Exporters' Association (SSI) and the Turkish Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB), with the presence of Professor Haluk Gorgun, President of the Defence Industry Agency. The conference also featured participations from CEOs and business development managers representing major industrial and defense companies from around the globe.

His Excellency Al-Ohali stated that the localization rate of military industries in the Kingdom has steadily increased, reaching 19.35% by the end of 2023. This progress aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims for a prosperous, diversified, and sustainable economy driven by industry and innovation. The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on oil revenues, elevate the private sector's contribution to the Saudi economy from 40% to 65%, and enhance the non-oil GDP from 16% to 50%.

The Governor of GAMI emphasized the appealing and sustainable investment landscape present in Saudi Arabia's military industries sector. This landscape supports the investor's journey and generates various investment opportunities, enablers, incentives, and legislative frameworks. GAMI has implemented policies and regulations designed to foster the growth of the military industries sector. These include governance frameworks, regulations pertaining to military activities, policies for the control and monitoring of exports and imports, standards and specifications for testing and quality, intellectual property policies, data security and management policies, occupational safety and health policies, human capital development policies, and policies promoting industrial participation.

His Excellency called upon stakeholders in the military industries sector to take advantage of the significant opportunities available in the Kingdom. He clarified that the financial incentives and support extend not only to major companies operating in the sector but also to all small and medium-sized enterprises specializing in military industries, both locally and internationally. Mr. Al-Ohali emphasized the ongoing efforts of GAMI, in collaboration with sector partners, to enable beneficiary government entities and companies within the military industries sector. This initiative aims to serve as a vital contributor to localization efforts, thereby enhancing the growth and prosperity of the Saudi economy. The incentives developed by GAMI, in partnership with industry stakeholders, create a fertile environment for investment in Saudi military industries.

The Governor of GAMI concluded by highlighting that there are 74 opportunities within the supply chains for military industries, according to a comprehensive study of the Saudi market. This study was conducted to classify and identify supply chain opportunities established by GAMI in cooperation with partners from both the public and private sectors. Additionally, 30 priority investment opportunities have been classified, representing approximately 80% of the total future spending on supply chains.

It is worth noting that GAMI works in an integrated manner with the relevant government agencies to develop incentive packages for investors in the military industries sector, such as framework agreements, financial support incentives such as zero value-added tax, and other incentives that support the sector’s enablement to achieve the localization process.

The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) is organizing the Saudi pavilion participation in the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2025), held from February 17 to 21 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC). The event will witness the participation of several government agencies, authorities, major Saudi national institutions, and companies specialized in the field of military industries.
According to a GAMI press release, Saudi Arabia's participation in the exhibition underscores the unwavering support and special attention that the military and security industries in the Kingdom receive from the leadership. This initiative aims to realize the Kingdom's ambitious vision of enhancing strategic independence and developing national capabilities within the military sector. The goal is to localize over 50% of spending on military equipment and services by 2030, thereby becoming a significant contributor to the Saudi economy through technology transfer, supporting local investors, providing job opportunities for citizens, and maximizing its contribution to the national economy.
The Saudi pavilion will showcase GAMI's efforts in establishing policies, legislation, national priorities, and its core missions. It also highlights the latest advanced technologies and defense systems, reflecting the significant progress within the military industries sector in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, it presents various military products to illustrate the capabilities of the defense and military industries, as well as the investors' journey within a motivational investment environment and the promising opportunities available in the sector. This underscores the Kingdom's position as a strategic partner on the international stage.
The Saudi pavilion participating in the exhibition includes, in addition to GAMI, the General Authority for Defense Development (GADD), the World Defense Show (WDS), the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), the National Company for Mechanical Systems (NCMS), the Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC), the Saudi Chemical Company Holding (SCCH), AlKhorayef Group, Life Shield Military Industries (LIFE SHIELD), Emaan International, Qudra Industrial Company, and the Saudi Company for Aircraft Maintenance and Preparation (GDC).
GAMI said it works in an integrated manner with its partners from beneficiary and supportive government entities to enable national companies and major international firms operating in the military industries sector. This initiative aims to localize and enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, preparing the sector to serve as a significant contributor to the prosperity of the national economy. It also seeks to open new horizons for cooperation in military and defense industries, strengthen strategic partnerships, and support the Kingdom's defense and security independence, while highlighting Saudi Arabia's achievements in this promising and vital sector.

The activities of the Saudi pavilion, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), commenced today at the International Defense Exhibition and Conference "IDEX 2025," taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This event is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates.
Governor of GAMI Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali participated in the launch of the Saudi pavilion, in the presence of Lt.-Gen. Mohammad Bin Abdulrahman Bin Hamed Al-Gharibi, Chief of Staff of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, Sultan bin Abdullah Al-Angari, Saudi ambassador to the UAE , and a number of officials, international investors and decision-makers in the sector.
Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali emphasized the significance of the Kingdom's participation in IDEX 2025 as a leading global platform for showcasing the latest military technologies. He highlighted the importance of establishing international partnerships that enhance the Kingdom's defense and security capabilities. Furthermore, he noted that the Saudi pavilion serves as a strategic window that reaffirms the Kingdom's commitment to developing its defense sector and strengthening national competencies, contributing to the ambitious goal of localizing over 50% of military spending by 2030.
During the exhibition, GAMI signed a cooperation agreement in the field of government quality assurance with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration in Korea, in the presence of Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of GAMI, and the Minister of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration in Korea, Seok Jong-gun. The agreement aims to enhance the assurance and reliability of defense products and services carried out under purchasing and acquisition operations, in accordance with the local laws and regulations of both sides. This agreement reflects the mutual desire of both parties to enhance joint cooperation in the field of defense industry and technology, in a way that achieves the national interests of both countries. The two parties also intend to expand the scope of cooperation by exchanging experiences and best practices in the field of government quality assurance for defense products and services.
The Saudi pavilion has witnessed extensive participation from major national companies specializing in the military and defense sectors. It showcases the latest technologies and advanced systems, underscoring the significant progress the Kingdom has made in localizing military industries, in alignment with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
The Saudi pavilion participating in IDEX 2025 showcases the latest locally developed defense technologies across military, defense, and security industries. It features a variety of military products aimed at highlighting the capabilities of the defense and military sectors, which reflect the significant advancements occurring within the military industries in the Kingdom. Additionally, it presents the investor's journey within a conducive investment environment and the promising opportunities available in the sector.
The Saudi pavilion participating in the exhibition includes, in addition to GAMI and the General Authority for Defense Development (GADD), the World Defense Show (WDS), along with several national companies operating in the military industries sector. These companies include the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), the National Company for Mechanical Systems (NCMS), the Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC), the Saudi Chemical Company Holding (SCCH), AlKorayef Group, Life Shield Military Industries (LIFE SHIELD), Emaan International, QUDRA Industrial Company, and the Saudi Company for Aircraft Maintenance and Preparation (GDC).
The Saudi pavilion represents a significant opportunity to showcase the Kingdom's commitment to achieving sustainability and enhancing military industrial capabilities along with advanced defense technologies. It highlights the role of qualified and distinguished national competencies in this sector, while also allowing visitors to explore the latest advancements in national military industries.

The Saudi pavilion, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), concluded its participation at the International Defense Exhibition and Conference "IDEX 2025" with significant strategic gains. This event witnessed extensive participation from both Arab and international entities over the course of five days in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates.
Governor of GAMI Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali emphasized that "the significant success achieved by the Saudi pavilion at IDEX 2025 reflects the importance of global partnerships and strategic gains that will enhance the Kingdom's position as a leading industrial power in the sector." He added that "the Saudi pavilion witnessed numerous partnerships that will contribute to the development of national industrial capabilities and the exchange of expertise with a range of Arab and international companies in the field of military industries."
During the exhibition, the GAMI signed a cooperation agreement in the field of government quality assurance with the Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration, in the presence of Eng. Al-Ohali and Minister of the Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration Seok Jong-gun. The Saudi pavilion participating in IDEX 2025 also witnessed the signing of several agreements across various fields between a number of Saudi companies and major leading international firms in the sector. These agreements aim to support investment, facilitate technology transfer, and localize technology within the domestic market, thereby contributing to the strategic objectives of the military industries in the Kingdom and supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to localize 50% of military equipment and services expenditure by 2030.
The Saudi pavilion also experienced significant engagement from interested parties, researchers, specialists, and investors in the field of military industries and defense technologies. Visitors were introduced to the most notable developments and updates in the sector, highlighting the qualitative advancements and rapid progress made to support and enable the military industries sector.
The Saudi pavilion received wide attention from visitors and specialists in the military field who sought to learn about the latest developments in the Kingdom's defense industry, such as the regulatory and development work carried out by GAMI in the sector, policies and legislation, incentives and the investor's journey, and the sector's local capabilities that meet the operational needs of military equipment.
The Kingdom's pavilion welcomed delegations of high-ranking officials, dignitaries, and leaders in the military industries from around the globe during the exhibition days. Additionally, the participating governmental and private entities showcased their latest achievements in the field of military industries.
The Saudi pavilion participating in the exhibition includes, in addition to GAMI and the General Authority for Defense Development (GADD), the World Defense Show (WDS), along with several national companies operating in the military industries sector. These companies include the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), the National Company for Mechanical Systems (NCMS), the Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC), the Saudi Chemical Company Holding (SCCH), AlKorayef Group, Life Shield Military Industries (LIFE SHIELD), Emaan International, QUDRA Industrial Company, and the Saudi Company for Aircraft Maintenance and Preparation (GDC).
It is noteworthy that GAMI operates in cooperation with its partners from supportive governmental entities to enable national companies and enhance the presence of major international firms in the military industries sector. This initiative aims to localize military industries, strengthen local production capabilities, and prepare the sector to serve as a fundamental contributor to the national economy. Additionally, through international participation, GAMI seeks to open new avenues for cooperation in military and defense industries, fostering strategic partnerships that contribute to the Kingdom's defense and security independence while showcasing its achievements in this promising and vital sector.

During his regular tours of companies operating in the military industries sector, His Excellency Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), emphasized the importance of constructive cooperation with companies in the sector to support national projects that enhance local content, contribute to raising the efficiency of spending, and increase its global competitiveness, thus contributing to the localization of more than 50% of military spending by 2030. He praised the technical and technological capabilities and potential of the sector's companies and factories, which contribute to design and production. This came during his visit today to SAMI Alsalam Aerospace Industries and Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC), as part of His Excellency's tour program that includes companies, factories, and production lines operating in the Kingdom's military industries sector. During his visit to SAMI Alsalam Aviation Industries Company, which specializes in military and civil maintenance, repair and overhaul and the manufacture of key components for military and civil aircraft, His Excellency reviewed the company's facilities and discussed with its officials ways to enhance cooperation. He highlighted the company's role in competing with major international companies and emphasized his pride in the latest technical capabilities that Saudi competencies are working on in the maintenance and repair of military and civil aircraft engines. In a related context, His Excellency visited the Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC), where he discussed with company officials opportunities for cooperation and joint work that would contribute to achieving the Kingdom's strategy to develop its capabilities and achieve self-sufficiency in the field of maintenance and overhaul of military engines and aircraft, and to qualify national competencies. His Excellency the Governor of GAMI expressed his pride in the company's vital role in strengthening the Kingdom's defense and aviation system, along with its efforts to localize advanced technology and build national capabilities in this strategic sector.

The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) intends to organize the participation of the Saudi pavilion at the Athens International Defense and Security Exhibition (DEFEA), which will take place at the Metropolitan Expo exhibition center at Athens International Airport from May 6 to 8, 2025. Participating countries and international companies will showcase their latest systems in land, naval, and aerial defense, as well as cybersecurity. The Saudi pavilion, organized by GAMI, features participation from the General Authority for Defense Development (GADD) and the Saudi Arabian Military Industries Company (SAMI). It showcases the Kingdom's significant achievements, programs, and initiatives in the defense industry, along with the latest advanced defense technologies and systems that reflect the high level of development in the national military industries. Additionally, the pavilion highlights the policies and regulations adopted by GAMI to support both local and international investors, while promoting the promising investment environment in the Kingdom's defense sector. DEFEA is sponsored by the Greek Ministry of Defense and hosts over 346 exhibitors from 28 countries, attracting more than 23,000 visitors. The Saudi pavilion showcases the key achievements, programs, and initiatives led by the Kingdom in the defense industry sector, along with the latest advanced technologies and defense systems that reflect the advanced level attained by national military industries. It also highlights the framework of policies and regulations set by GAMI to support both local and international investors, while promoting the promising investment environment in the Kingdom's defense sector. GAMI's organization of the Saudi pavilion participating in DEFEA reflects its efforts to work in an integrated manner with the beneficiary and supporting government agencies. It also demonstrates GAMI's strong commitment to enabling national companies and enhancing partnerships with major international firms in the military industries sector. This initiative contributes to developing the Kingdom's defense and industrial capabilities, enhances the Kingdom's position as a leading strategic destination in this vital sector, and achieves the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which contributes to localizing more than 50% of military spending. The participation of the Saudi pavilion comes at a time when Saudi-Greek relations are experiencing significant development across various sectors in a short period, reflecting the strength of the strategic partnership between the two nations, particularly in defense, which shares common visions for maintaining regional security and stability, as well as advancing technological and industrial collaborations. Furthermore, the Saudi pavilion's participation in this event presents an opportunity to enhance cooperation channels with Greek and European entities, thereby opening new avenues for experience exchange and establishing strategic partnerships that serve mutual interests.

Today, the Saudi pavilion, participating for the first time in the Athens International Defense and Security Exhibition (DEFEA), was launched. The exhibition is organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) with the participation of the General Authority for Defense Development (GADD) and the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI). The inauguration of the pavilion was attended by His Excellency Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of GAMI, His Excellency Lt.-Gen. Fahd Bin Saud Al-Juhani, Chief of Staff of the Royal Saudi Land Forces, and Mr. Mohanad Nabil Al-Basrawi, Chargé d'Affaires at the Saudi Embassy in Greece. His Excellency the Governor and the attendees toured the Saudi pavilion, where they were briefed on the most prominent displays of advanced defense and security technologies and systems. These technologies reflect the development of Saudi military industries and the growing national capabilities in this vital sector, along with a number of strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing international cooperation and the transfer and localization of defense technologies. His Excellency Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of GAMI, emphasized that the Saudi pavilion's participation in this international event reflects the Kingdom's advanced strategic position in the field of military industries, its efforts to highlight the promising investment environment in the Kingdom's defense sector, attract international partners and investors, and enable national companies to achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and localize more than 50% of military spending. During the exhibition, the Saudi pavilion displays the country's policies and legislation, their mandates and national priorities, the incentives offered to investors, and the ease of doing business across the investor journey. It also showcases the achievements, programs, and initiatives led by the Kingdom in the military industries sector, as well as the latest technologies and advanced defense systems that reflect the advanced level achieved by the national military industries.

featuring extensive global participation. The Saudi participation achieved a remarkable presence that exemplified its leading role in the global military industries sector, aligning with its future aspirations both regionally and internationally. In addition to (GAMI), the Saudi pavilion also featured the General Authority for Defense Development (GADD) and the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI). During the Saudi pavilion participation at the exhibition, His Excellency Eng. Ahmad Abdulaziz Al-Ohali, Governor of GAMI, met with Major General Ioannis Bouras, General Director of the General Directorate for Defense Investments and Armaments in Greece. The meeting focused on exploring avenues for mutual cooperation and discussing promising opportunities to establish strategic partnerships that would benefit the shared interests of Saudi Arabia and Greece in the field of defense industries. His Excellency held several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the exhibition aimed at exploring avenues for cooperation and strengthening bilateral partnerships. He also met with senior executives and founding presidents of several major Greek and international companies specializing in defense and security industries. Through its participation in the exhibition, GAMI sought to strengthen international partnerships in the military industries sector within the Kingdom, while also opening new avenues for cooperation in this vital field. GAMI showcased the key national industrial capabilities across various military domains, including air, naval, and land sectors, as well as weapon systems and defense electronics. Additionally, GAMI provided a comprehensive overview of the attractive investment environment in the military industries sector, along with the latest developments in the Kingdom in this area, covering regulatory and developmental aspects, policies and legislation, incentives for investors, and the investor journey, all contributing to enhancing the Kingdom's strategic independence in military industries. In this context, the General Authority for Defense Development (GADD) highlighted through its participation its roles in building and localizing defense capabilities while showcasing research cooperation projects and available opportunities in the Kingdom. GADD also demonstrated the role of its incubators and accelerators in supporting innovation and defense technologies, and introduced visitors to the "JADD" innovation platform, which allows innovators to submit and develop groundbreaking concepts in the defense domain. The Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) showcased its latest innovations across its various sectors in the Saudi pavilion. SAMI Land Industrial Complex (SLIC) presented a model of an advanced facility dedicated to manufacturing and logistics services for land systems solutions. SAMI Advanced Electronics presented the HEMA surveillance system, which uses artificial intelligence technologies in military surveillance and reconnaissance applications. SAMI Aerospace showcased the wings and nose of the F-15SA aircraft, which were manufactured and assembled by SAMI Alsalam Aerospace Industries. It is noteworthy that the participation of the Saudi pavilion at DEFEA highlighted the advanced technologies that the Kingdom possesses in the field of military industries, aiming to localize 50% of military equipment and service spending by 2030.