Saudi Industrial Development Centre, Airbus sign aviation localisation memorandum at World Defense Show
- SAUDI ARABIA BREAKING NEWS
- 22 hours ago
- 1 min read
Riyadh, February 9, 2026 (SABN) – Saudi Arabia’s National Industrial Development Center signed a memorandum of cooperation with Airbus to explore opportunities to develop and localise the aviation and helicopter industry in the Kingdom.
The signing took place on the sidelines of the World Defense Show in Riyadh under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef.
Under the memorandum, the two sides will examine steps to build an integrated aviation industrial base, including the possible establishment of an engineering centre to develop national capabilities in manufacturing, assembly, maintenance and repair, alongside a supporting logistics network.
The agreement also covers technology and knowledge transfer, encouraging global suppliers to invest in Saudi Arabia and developing Saudi talent through education and training partnerships with domestic institutions.
It includes coordination with relevant authorities to examine procurement options, support a shift toward exports and explore incentives and financing mechanisms to improve project readiness and competitiveness.