Saudi Arabia considers increasing its investments in food security projects

18/11/2025 03:09 AST

The Arab Authority for Agricultural Investment and Development is studying new investment opportunities in the agricultural and food sectors in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on food security and food manufacturing projects.

According to a statement made by Obaid Al-Zaabi, chairman of the authority, to Al-Eqtisadiah, the organization has reached preliminary understandings with several Saudi companies and investment entities in this regard.

The Arab Authority for Agricultural Investment and Development is an independent Arab financial institution established in 1976 under an agreement among Arab states, with the mandate to develop agricultural resources across the region.

AAAID contributes to 44 companies and projects, including 39 existing companies and five under establishment or implementation. Its portfolio spans 12 Arab countries.

Expanding investment presence
The authority is moving to expand its investment presence in the Kingdom by forming new partnerships with Saudi companies and entities in agriculture, livestock production and the food industries, as part of its plan to increase its investments in Saudi Arabia.

Al-Zaabi noted that a delegation from the authority, which he headed, recently visited the Kingdom and held extensive discussions with sector companies. These included SALIC, Almarai, Jadaya, AlFahad Co. in the Qassim region, and the Najran Cooperative Poultry Production Association.

Focus on agriculture and food manufacturing
He explained that discussions centered on developing qualitative projects in agricultural production and food manufacturing, as well as enhancing production efficiency in the poultry, meat and veterinary services sectors. These efforts aim to create added value and support economic development in Saudi Arabia.

The delegation also explored prospects for joint cooperation on projects that strengthen Arab food security and promote integration between Arab countries in this critical sector.

Al-Zaabi said the delegation reviewed promising investment opportunities in the Qassim region, where an agreement was reached with the Qassim Chamber to sign a cooperation memorandum. The memorandum will provide the authority with a list of available investment projects in agriculture and livestock production for a feasibility study.

The delegation also met with the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa to discuss opportunities for cooperation in financing and supporting joint agricultural and development projects in the region.

The chairman affirmed that Saudi Arabia is one of the most attractive markets for investment in the agricultural and food sectors, thanks to its supportive regulations, advanced infrastructure and strong investment environment.

He added that the Kingdom represents a strategic partner in the authority's plan for regional expansion in agricultural and food investments.