ACHEMA Middle East Launch Highlights Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Industrial Innovation

Riyadh Hosts Executive Launch

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia ACHEMA Middle East was officially launched in Riyadh, marking a bold step in transforming the Middle East into a global hub for industrial innovation. The executive-level ceremony emphasized Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in shaping the future of the global process industry.

Organized by Messe Frankfurt in partnership with DECHEMA, and supported by ASAS and ICOR (subsidiaries of the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources), the event unveiled the strategic direction for ACHEMA Middle East 2026, scheduled for October 26–28, 2026, at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC).

Accelerating Process Innovation

Held under the theme “Accelerating Process Innovation”, the launch event highlighted the strong alignment between Vision 2030 and ACHEMA’s global legacy. The initiative aims to:

  • Promote sustainable industrial development.
  • Localize critical supply chains.
  • Attract international investments.

This platform will position Saudi Arabia as a leader in global industrial transformation, while strengthening its knowledge-based economy.

Innovation Opportunities Across Key Sectors

The event spotlighted opportunities for innovation across several sectors, including:

  • Chemical processing.
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing.
  • Green energy and hydrogen.
  • Industrial digitalization.
  • Smart plants.

By bridging global expertise with Saudi ambitions, ACHEMA Middle East is set to become the key gateway between European technology ecosystems and the industrial needs of the Middle East.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Collaboration

Dr. Björn Mathes, CEO of DECHEMA Exhibitions, stated:

“ACHEMA Middle East is not just a regional extension; it’s a strategic evolution. By bringing ACHEMA to Riyadh, we’re creating a platform where world-class science, engineering, and innovation meet the demands and vision of one of the world’s most ambitious industrial economies.”

Adding to this, Azzan Mohammed, Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt Saudi Arabia, emphasized:

“Saudi Arabia is undergoing a once-in-a-generation industrial evolution. We are honored to play a role in shaping its exhibition landscape, and ACHEMA Middle East will be a flagship example of how international collaboration can empower regional progress.”

Looking Ahead to ACHEMA Middle East 2026

The upcoming ACHEMA Middle East 2026 is expected to feature:

  • More than 400 international exhibitors.
  • Six specialized innovation stages, covering topics such as process innovation, green innovation, and advanced industrial technologies.
  • A unique knowledge hub and procurement gateway for technology partnerships.

With Saudi Arabia investing heavily in special economic zones and next-generation infrastructure, the Kingdom provides fertile ground for businesses ready to lead in energy, chemicals, and manufacturing transformation.

Conclusion: A New Era for Industrial Development

The executive launch concluded with optimism, underscoring the belief that the Middle East is entering a new era of industrial growth. ACHEMA Middle East will not only attract global process industry leaders to Saudi Arabia but also amplify the Kingdom’s industrial ambitions on the world stage.