Fatehelrahman Yousif

Saudi Arabia is seeking to move beyond importing advanced technologies and establish a domestic AI and data ecosystem supporting cloud computing, hyperscale data centers, satellites and space technologies. Experts say investments, international partnerships, workforce development, regulation and research institutions are helping advance Vision 2030’s goal of a diversified knowledge economy. The space economy was valued at about $8.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $31.6 billion by 2035, creating opportunities in satellite communications, remote sensing, geospatial services, space-data analytics and component manufacturing.

Saudi Arabia and Spain have established a comprehensive strategic partnership following the signing of a Strategic Partnership Agreement in Madrid, elevating bilateral relations and enabling high-level oversight of joint initiatives. Spanish Ambassador Javier Carbajosa highlighted new agreements in economy and transport and ongoing negotiations on additional cooperation frameworks under the partnership. Bilateral trade remains strong, supported by Spanish engineering and infrastructure firms playing a major role in Saudi Vision 2030 projects. Cooperation spans water management, smart cities, energy grids, transport networks and civil aviation, including plans for the region’s first virtual air traffic control tower. Defense collaboration has shifted toward technology transfer and localization, with projects such as the Avante 2200 corvettes and the HAZEM naval combat system. Space cooperation is set to expand as Spain’s advanced industry aligns with Saudi Arabia’s growing space economy. The partnership marks a strategic transition from project execution to long-term co-production and innovation across key sectors.