Global WoodShow Concludes Riyadh Edition with Focus on Saudi Industrial Growth

Global WoodShow, part of the Saudi Wood Forum, concluded its third edition at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center after three days of business meetings, technical showcases and industry discussions.

Held from September 1 to 3 under the patronage of the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, the exhibition brought together wood and furniture professionals from Saudi Arabia and international markets.

The event covered the full industry chain, from timber, panels and raw materials to woodworking machinery, industrial tools, technologies and finishing solutions.

Global WoodShow Brings Industry Leaders Together

The third edition attracted senior government and industry representatives, including Dr Ahmed bin Sami Al-Zawawi, Assistant Deputy Minister for Industrial Competitiveness and Advanced Manufacturing.

Other prominent attendees included Abdullah bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, First Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Riyadh Chamber; Saud bin Abdullah Alsheikh, Chief Executive Officer of Strategic Exhibitions and Conferences; and Adviser Abdullah bin Mohammed Alsheikh.

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Their participation highlighted the exhibition’s growing role in connecting government, industry, technology and international trade.

Technology Takes Centre Stage

This year’s program placed strong emphasis on technology-led transformation across the wood and furniture sector.

Artificial intelligence, automation, intelligent logistics and digital supply chains featured prominently. These technologies are increasingly changing manufacturing, sourcing and international trade.

Meanwhile, the conference examined the economic and design trends shaping the sector. Speakers discussed Saudi Vision 2030 and the role of major national development projects in creating new commercial demand.

The sessions also explored how artificial intelligence and three-dimensional printing could influence architecture, construction, design and advanced manufacturing.

Saudi Wood and Furniture Academy Announced

One of the edition’s key developments was a strategic partnership between Global WoodShow and the Portuguese Association of Wood and Furniture Industries (AIMMP).

The agreement will establish the Saudi Wood and Furniture Academy.

The academy aims to develop skilled talent and provide advanced technical training for Saudi Arabia’s wood and furniture industries. It will also support local manufacturing, improve production standards and strengthen the Kingdom’s competitiveness in regional and international markets.

IFAC Expands Commercial Opportunities

The International Furniture Accessories, Components and Semi-Finished Products Exhibition (IFAC) ran alongside the main event.

Its presence expanded the exhibition’s commercial reach by connecting visitors with materials, components, accessories, fittings and semi-finished products for furniture manufacturing and interior fit-outs.

As a result, visitors gained broader sourcing opportunities across wood processing and furniture production. The combined platform also encouraged cross-border cooperation and long-term commercial partnerships.

Saudi Arabia Strengthens Regional Industry Position

The third edition reinforced Riyadh’s growing importance as a destination for wood trade, manufacturing and investment.

By bringing international suppliers together with Saudi buyers and industry professionals, Global WoodShow created opportunities for sourcing, partnerships and skills development.

For now, the event continues to position Saudi Arabia as a growing regional hub for wood and furniture industries. It also connects local market demand with global technologies and advanced manufacturing solutions.

The organizers said the exhibition will continue supporting the Kingdom’s ambitions in advanced manufacturing, investment and international trade.