By Fahad Al Salhi, Chief Solutions Officer, AJEX Logistics Services.

In a historic win for Saudi Arabia last year, the Kingdom secured the hosting rights for World Expo 2030. As Saudi Arabia prepares to host this groundbreaking event, it's apt to remember the nation's rich history and the significance of events like World Expo 2030 in shaping its future. Just as we celebrate Saudi Founding Day on 22 February, commemorating the establishment of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz in 1932, the hosting of World Expo 2030 represents another milestone in Saudi Arabia's journey towards progress and global prominence.

With a legacy spanning over 170 years, World Expos have served as essential platforms for nations to showcase their advancements in technology, culture, and commerce. From the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London in 1851 to more recent events like Dubai Expo 2020, these exhibitions have left an indelible mark on the world stage. One need only to think of the Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s most historic landmarks, which was the product of the 1889 Paris World Expo, to underscore the point.

Now, the Kingdom, thanks to its remarkable achievement, will have the chance to showcase the innovation, collaboration, and progress taking place across the country on a global stage, in its very own capital city, Riyadh. But with the event drawing in millions of visitors from around the world, organizing a World Expo is no easy feat. To provide some idea of the magnitude of the event, the last World Expo in the UAE was attended by 24 million plus visitors with 192 country pavilions spread across a 500-acre space.

Logistics, encompassing supply chains, transportation, and infrastructure, has a huge part to play in facilitating large-scale global events such as the Expo. An event of this magnitude requires expertise in handling mammoth operations. From orchestrating the seamless coordination of transportation networks to the precise management of goods, warehousing and supply chains, logistics serves as the backbone for ensuring the uninterrupted flow of exhibits, attendees, and resources essential for the Expo's success.

Meeting World Expo 2030 Logistics Requirements

Saudi Arabia is no stranger to large-scale events and exhibitions, having successfully hosted numerous international conferences, summits, and sporting events in recent years. From the Formula E races in Diriyah to the G20 Summit in Riyadh, the Kingdom has demonstrated its ability to orchestrate seamless logistics operations on a grand scale.

Combined with its logistical expertise and prowess, Saudi Arabia is certainly more than capable of handling the mammoth task that is putting together a successful World Expo event. The Kingdom boasts one of the world's most advanced logistics ecosystems, supported by its strategic geographic location and thriving industries. With a legacy of trade and commerce dating back centuries, it has cultivated expertise in logistics that spans across various sectors, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, and manufacturing. Today, the Kingdom's proficiency in managing complex supply chains and handling massive cargo shipments has earned it a reputation as a global logistics hub, attracting businesses and investors from around the world.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia continues its ongoing investments in expanding transportation networks and modernizing ports and airports. In 2021, the Kingdom committed to investing over 500 billion riyals ($133.34 billion) in airports, seaports, rail, and other infrastructure by the end of the decade in a bid to transform it into a global transportation and logistics hub. Projects such as the development of smart logistics hubs, and the implementation of advanced customs clearance systems are not only vital for Expo 2030 but will also leave a lasting legacy that will benefit Saudi Arabia's logistics sector for years to come.

As part of its bid to become a global logistics leader, Saudi Arabia's is also investing in innovation to further enhance its logistical capabilities. By integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI and blockchain into logistics processes, the Kingdom is working to ensure the transparency and optimization of its operations. For instance, King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam is embracing automation with automated container terminals and IoT-enabled tracking systems, while King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh adopts AI-powered baggage handling systems and biometric identification, streamlining passenger and cargo processing. These technologies not only enhance efficiency but also enable proactive problem-solving, anticipating and mitigating potential disruptions before they occur.

Long term impact for Saudi

The long-term impact of hosting World Expo 2030 will reverberate across the Kingdom for generations to come. Expo 2030 will fuel the tourism industry, provide a vital platform for attracting international investments, and fundamentally advance Saudi Arabia’s economic growth objectives. Research by Al-Rajhi Capital shows that Riyadh will enjoy a SR355 billion ($94.64 billion) boost to its economy. Moreover, a 0.75 percent annualized impact is expected over the next 25 years on account of the event, which is also projected to accelerate the development of government-led giga-projects. In the case of the Dubai World Expo, the industries to benefit most from local growth included events organisation and business services, construction, restaurants and hotels. All of this will demand a robust, reliable, secure and efficient logistics infrastructure and supply chains.

Logistics, the silent force driving the seamless orchestration of this grand event, will play a pivotal role in shaping Saudi Arabia's journey towards becoming a global logistics leader. Expo 2030 not only serves as a testament to Saudi Arabia's logistical prowess but also accelerates the development of its logistics industry and broader economic landscape. By showcasing its expertise in managing complex supply chains, handling massive cargo shipments, and integrating cutting-edge technology, the Kingdom reaffirms its position as a global logistics hub of unparalleled significance.

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2427021/business-economy

https://www.bie-paris.org/site/en/news-announcements/expo-dubai-2020-2/expo-2020-dubai-impact-drives-decades-long-growth-in-uae