Saudi Arabia continues to boost economic ties with the United Kingdom as the “Great Futures” growth drives deeper collaboration. Over 50 British companies recently chose to open their regional headquarters in the Kingdom. These firms joined more than 1,300 existing UK businesses operating successfully across Saudi Arabia.
Both nations aim to build strong cooperation under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan. This plan pushes for major growth beyond oil, focusing on new industries and sustainable development. The UK is aligning its expertise in areas such as clean energy, advanced manufacturing, biotech, finance, and digital innovation.
The “Great Futures” growth campaign has already led to major deals across key sectors. One successful deal involved a hydrogen mobility project, securing £750 million in investment and creating over 1,000 UK jobs. The UK-based company HYCAP worked closely with Saudi partners to bring this vision to life.
In addition, the UK and Saudi Arabia continue to host joint forums and exhibitions. These events promote partnerships in education, tourism, and innovation. UK universities, such as the University of Oxford, now collaborate with Saudi institutions to advance artificial intelligence in healthcare.
Many UK firms are taking part in Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects, including NEOM and the Red Sea Project. These projects require advanced technology, innovation, and sustainability, where the UK already leads. As part of the Great Futures growth Saudi Arabia initiative, a company from Manchester, Graphene Innovations, will build the first commercial plant for graphene carbon fiber in NEOM. This project brings £250 million into the UK and over 4,500 jobs to Saudi Arabia.
The “Great Futures” growth movement also supports clean energy development. For example, Carbon Clean now works with Aramco to develop carbon capture systems. Meanwhile, City Cement teams up with Next Generation SCM to produce sustainable building materials.
UK financial services play a key role as well. Saudi bond and sukuk issuances often happen through the London Stock Exchange. Last year, Saudi Arabia raised $41.8 billion using this platform. This trust helps Saudi companies connect with international investors.
The UK and Saudi Arabia also back a Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council. Experts believe this deal could grow trade by 16 percent, adding £8.6 billion yearly. However, some UK businesses still hesitate due to misunderstandings about the region.
Peter Ashby, a key UK trade figure, urges business leaders to visit Saudi Arabia and build relationships in person. He notes the Kingdom’s openness, ambition, and innovative leadership as vital advantages.
Future opportunities lie in creative industries, tourism, biotech, and smart infrastructure. These sectors match the goals of both countries. As Saudi Arabia delivers Vision 2030, the UK stands ready to support this exciting transformation.
