Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and China’s ZTT Group have entered into a strategic land lease agreement to establish a new state-of-the-art cable manufacturing plant at Ras Al-Khair Port. The signing took place during the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) conference in Riyadh. This collaboration represents a key milestone in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s industrial base and supporting its national vision to become a global logistics powerhouse.
The total investment for this project amounts to SAR375 million, reflecting both parties’ confidence in Saudi Arabia’s industrial and economic potential. The planned manufacturing facility will cover an area of approximately 80,000 square meters within the Ras Al-Khair Port industrial zone. It is designed to be a high-capacity production center capable of meeting both domestic and international demand for advanced cable technologies.
The new facility will boast an impressive annual production capacity, expected to reach 500 kilometers of submarine cables, 500 kilometers of terrestrial cables, and 12,500 kilometers of fiber optic cables. These products will play a crucial role in supporting global data connectivity, energy transmission, and digital transformation projects. By producing advanced cables locally, Saudi Arabia aims to reduce dependence on imports and enhance its self-sufficiency in critical technology sectors.
This partnership aligns directly with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS), a central pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. The NTLS aims to position the Kingdom as a leading global logistics hub by enhancing infrastructure, modernizing industrial ports, and attracting international investment. The new cable factory at Ras Al-Khair will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s manufacturing ecosystem, create high-value jobs, and support technological knowledge transfer from China’s ZTT Group to local industries.
The collaboration between Mawani and ZTT Group reflects the broader trend of industrial diversification that the Kingdom is pursuing. Beyond oil and petrochemicals, Saudi Arabia is increasingly focusing on advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure. The cable plant will not only support local projects but also export products to global markets, boosting Saudi Arabia’s position in international trade and manufacturing networks.
Ras Al-Khair Port, located on the eastern coast of the Kingdom, has emerged as one of Saudi Arabia’s most vital industrial gateways. It serves as a cornerstone for heavy industries, particularly in mining, energy, and maritime services. The addition of a high-tech cable manufacturing plant will further enhance the port’s role as a hub for industrial innovation and sustainable growth. This development also reinforces the port’s contribution to achieving the Kingdom’s goal of integrating its maritime and industrial capabilities.
This agreement is a testament to the growing economic partnership between Saudi Arabia and China. Over the past decade, the two countries have strengthened cooperation in trade, technology, and infrastructure. The ZTT Group, known globally for its expertise in cable manufacturing and energy transmission solutions, views Saudi Arabia as a strategic partner for expanding its presence in the Middle East. For Saudi Arabia, this collaboration represents an opportunity to benefit from China’s technological expertise and global manufacturing experience.
The demand for submarine and terrestrial cables has surged worldwide, driven by the expansion of renewable energy projects, data centers, and cross-border connectivity initiatives. The Ras Al-Khair facility will help meet this demand by producing high-performance cables for telecommunications and energy sectors. It will also support Saudi Arabia’s efforts to advance its digital infrastructure and renewable energy grid — both crucial components of Vision 2030.
Beyond infrastructure, the project is expected to create numerous direct and indirect job opportunities for Saudi nationals. Mawani and ZTT Group are expected to collaborate on training programs to enhance local expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and quality management. These initiatives will contribute to building a skilled workforce capable of sustaining the country’s long-term industrial ambitions.
The signing of this agreement signals the start of a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s industrial journey. By integrating advanced manufacturing technologies and fostering international partnerships, the Kingdom continues to accelerate its path toward economic diversification. The collaboration with ZTT Group not only strengthens the logistics and maritime sectors but also establishes Ras Al-Khair Port as a regional hub for innovation in cable and energy technology.
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