Saudi Arabia is participating in the 48th edition of the Baghdad International Fair with a pavilion featuring 55 national companies, organized by the Saudi Export Development Authority (Saudi Exports) in partnership with the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council. The exhibition, held in the Iraqi capital from February 1 to 7, 2025, brings together Saudi manufacturers, food producers, and industrial firms under the slogan “Jeerah and Deerah,” a phrase that evokes the deep historical and fraternal bonds between the two neighboring nations. The Saudi presence at the fair underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to expanding non-oil exports and building durable trade partnerships across the region.
Why does this participation matter so much at this particular moment? Because it reflects a broader strategic push by the Kingdom to diversify its economy and strengthen ties with regional partners. Saudi non-oil exports to Iraq have reached nearly SAR 20 billion over the past five years (2020 through October 2024), with metals and their products, food industries, and electrical machinery and equipment ranking as the top export sectors. The Baghdad International Fair provides a direct platform for Saudi companies to showcase their products, meet potential buyers, and negotiate agreements that can translate into long-term commercial relationships.
Context and Background
What makes the Baghdad International Fair such a significant venue for Saudi exporters? The annual exhibition, now in its 48th edition, is one of Iraq’s largest and most established trade events, drawing participants from across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. For Saudi Arabia, it represents a natural extension of its economic diplomacy, particularly given the geographic proximity and cultural affinity between the two countries. The Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council, which co-organized the Kingdom’s participation, was established to deepen bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and security domains. This year’s fair is therefore not just a commercial exhibition but a symbol of steadily warming relations.
The Saudi Export Development Authority has been at the forefront of efforts to elevate the Kingdom’s non-oil export profile. Saudi Exports works with national companies to identify promising foreign markets, provide export financing and insurance solutions, and facilitate participation in international trade fairs. The Baghdad fair is a key stop on that calendar. In recent years, Saudi Exports has led delegations to Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, and beyond, all part of a deliberate strategy to reduce reliance on hydrocarbon revenues and build a more resilient, diversified economy in line with Vision 2030. The 55 companies present in Baghdad span sectors from construction materials and processed foods to electrical equipment and logistics services.
How have Saudi-Iraqi trade relations evolved in recent years? They have expanded markedly, driven by high-level political engagement and a shared interest in regional stability. The reopening of the Arar border crossing in 2020 after decades of closure marked a turning point, enabling the resumption of direct overland trade. Since then, bilateral trade volumes have grown steadily, and Saudi companies have increasingly viewed Iraq as a promising market for goods ranging from packaged foods to steel products. The Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council has held multiple rounds of talks, producing agreements on energy, investment, and infrastructure. The Baghdad fair builds on that momentum.
Key Details of the Saudi Participation
What exactly does the Saudi pavilion offer to visitors and potential partners? The 55 participating companies represent a cross-section of the Kingdom’s industrial and commercial base. Metals and metal products, food industries, and electrical machinery and equipment are the leading export categories to Iraq over the past five years. Visitors to the pavilion can expect to see displays of steel and aluminum products, processed foods and beverages, cables and electrical components, and a range of consumer goods. The pavilion also serves as a networking hub, with Saudi Exports facilitating business-to-business meetings between Saudi exporters and Iraqi importers, distributors, and government buyers.
Eng. Abdulrahman Althukair, CEO of Saudi Exports, emphasized that the Kingdom’s involvement reflects its dedication to deepening trade relations with neighboring countries, particularly Iraq. He described Iraq as a promising market for Saudi goods and noted that the slogan “Jeerah and Deerah” symbolizes the strong historical and fraternal ties between the two nations while reinforcing the spirit of neighborliness. That phrase, which translates roughly to “neighbor and vicinity,” captures the essence of a relationship rooted in geography, kinship, and shared heritage. Althukair’s remarks signal that Saudi Arabia views Iraq not merely as an export destination but as a strategic partner in regional economic integration.
Why is the slogan “Jeerah and Deerah” so resonant? It speaks to a sense of community and mutual responsibility that transcends commercial transactions. In Arabic, the words evoke the idea of a neighbor who is also a close relative, someone with whom one shares both space and destiny. By adopting this slogan, Saudi Exports is framing its trade mission in cultural and historical terms, not just economic ones. That framing matters because it aligns with the Kingdom’s broader approach to regional diplomacy, which emphasizes fraternity, stability, and shared prosperity. For Iraqi audiences, the message is one of respect and long-term commitment.
International and Regional Impact
How does Saudi Arabia’s participation in the Baghdad fair fit into the wider regional trade landscape? The Middle East is witnessing a gradual shift toward greater economic interdependence, with countries seeking to diversify partners and reduce exposure to external shocks. Saudi Arabia’s outreach to Iraq is part of that trend. By strengthening trade ties with its northern neighbor, the Kingdom is helping to build a more integrated regional economy that can withstand global volatility. The fair also brings together companies from other countries, creating opportunities for trilateral and multilateral cooperation. A stronger Saudi-Iraqi trade corridor could eventually link Gulf ports to Iraqi markets and beyond, enhancing connectivity across the region.
What are the implications for Iraq’s economy? Iraq stands to benefit from access to high-quality Saudi products at competitive prices, as well as from the transfer of expertise and investment that often accompanies trade delegations. Saudi companies have expressed interest in sectors such as construction, food processing, and renewable energy, all of which are priorities for Iraq’s reconstruction and development plans. The presence of 55 Saudi firms in Baghdad signals that the private sector sees real opportunity in the Iraqi market. Over time, this could lead to joint ventures, technology transfer, and job creation in both countries. The Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council is expected to continue supporting such initiatives.
Does this fair have significance beyond bilateral trade? Yes, it does. It reflects a broader realignment in regional politics, where economic cooperation is increasingly seen as a foundation for stability. Saudi Arabia’s engagement with Iraq complements its efforts to build bridges with other neighbors and to position itself as a hub for trade, investment, and logistics. The Kingdom’s participation in the Baghdad fair also aligns with its support for Iraq’s sovereignty and prosperity, a stance that has been welcomed by Iraqi officials. By showing up in force, Saudi Arabia is demonstrating that it is serious about being a constructive partner in the region’s economic future.
Economic and Strategic Significance
Why are non-oil exports so central to Saudi Arabia’s economic strategy? The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reform agenda aims to reduce dependence on oil revenues by expanding the private sector and boosting non-oil exports. Saudi Exports has set ambitious targets for increasing the value and diversity of national exports, and Iraq is a key market in that effort. The nearly SAR 20 billion in non-oil exports to Iraq over the past five years represents a solid foundation, but officials see potential for much more. The Baghdad fair is a practical tool for unlocking that potential, giving Saudi companies a direct line to Iraqi buyers and decision-makers. Success at the fair can lead to contracts, distribution agreements, and long-term supply relationships.
What strategic advantages does Iraq offer as an export market? Iraq has a population of over 40 million and a growing demand for consumer goods, building materials, and industrial equipment. Its proximity to Saudi Arabia means lower transportation costs and faster delivery times compared to more distant markets. The Arar border crossing provides a direct overland route, and both governments have invested in improving infrastructure and customs procedures. Iraqi consumers are familiar with Saudi brands, and cultural ties make it easier for Saudi companies to build trust. For these reasons, Saudi Exports has identified Iraq as a priority market in its export promotion strategy. The Baghdad fair is one of several initiatives designed to capitalize on that advantage.
How does this participation support Saudi Arabia’s long-term economic goals? It contributes to the diversification of export destinations, reducing reliance on any single market. It also encourages Saudi companies to upgrade their products and services to meet international standards, which in turn makes them more competitive globally. The experience gained in Iraq can be applied to other markets in the region and beyond. Moreover, the fair reinforces the Kingdom’s reputation as a reliable supplier and a responsible economic partner. That reputation is an asset that supports Vision 2030’s aim of positioning Saudi Arabia as a global investment and trade hub. The 55 companies in Baghdad are ambassadors for that vision.
Vision 2030 Alignment
How does the Baghdad International Fair participation connect to Vision 2030? Vision 2030 seeks to transform Saudi Arabia into a diversified, innovation-driven economy with a strong private sector and expanded non-oil exports. The Saudi Export Development Authority is a key instrument of that transformation, and its work in Iraq directly supports the goal of increasing non-oil exports as a share of GDP. By facilitating the entry of Saudi companies into the Iraqi market, Saudi Exports is helping to create jobs, generate revenue, and build international business experience. The partnership with the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council further aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on regional cooperation and economic diplomacy.
What does the future hold for Saudi-Iraqi trade? The trajectory is positive. Both governments have expressed commitment to deepening ties, and the private sector is responding. The Baghdad fair is likely to produce new agreements and contacts that will sustain trade growth in the coming years. Saudi Exports plans to continue supporting Saudi companies in Iraq through trade missions, market intelligence, and financing solutions. As Iraq rebuilds and develops, demand for Saudi goods and services should rise. The Kingdom’s participation in the 48th Baghdad International Fair is therefore not an isolated event but part of a sustained strategy to build a prosperous, interconnected region. It is a clear example of how Saudi Arabia is using trade to strengthen friendships and advance its Vision 2030 goals.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Baghdad International Fair?
A1. The Baghdad International Fair is an annual trade exhibition held in Iraq’s capital, now in its 48th edition, that brings together companies from various countries to showcase products and services. It is one of Iraq’s largest and most established commercial events.
Q2. How many Saudi companies are participating in the 48th Baghdad International Fair?
A2. The Saudi pavilion features 55 national companies representing various export sectors, organized by the Saudi Export Development Authority in partnership with the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council.
Q3. When and where is the fair taking place?
A3. The fair is being held from February 1 to 7, 2025, in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. It is the 48th edition of the event.
Q4. Which Saudi agency is leading the participation?
A4. The Saudi Export Development Authority, known as Saudi Exports, is leading the participation in partnership with the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council. Saudi Exports works to promote national products in international markets.
Q5. What is the slogan of the Saudi pavilion and what does it mean?
A5. The slogan is “Jeerah and Deerah,” which translates roughly to “neighbor and vicinity.” It symbolizes the strong historical and fraternal ties between Saudi Arabia and Iraq and reinforces the spirit of neighborliness.
Q6. Who is the CEO of Saudi Exports?
A6. Eng. Abdulrahman Althukair is the CEO of Saudi Exports. He emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s involvement reflects its dedication to deepening trade relations with neighboring countries, particularly Iraq.
Q7. What are the top Saudi export sectors to Iraq?
A7. The top export sectors are metals and their products, food industries, and electrical machinery and equipment. These categories have ranked highest over the past five years.
Q8. How much have Saudi non-oil exports to Iraq reached in the past five years?
A8. Saudi non-oil exports to Iraq have reached nearly SAR 20 billion over the past five years, from 2020 through October 2024, according to official Saudi sources.
Q9. Why is Iraq considered a promising market for Saudi goods?
A9. Iraq has a large population, growing demand for consumer and industrial goods, and geographic proximity to Saudi Arabia. Cultural and historical ties also make it easier for Saudi companies to build trust with Iraqi buyers.
Q10. What is the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council?
A10. The Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council is a bilateral body established to deepen cooperation between the two countries across political, economic, and security domains. It co-organized the Saudi participation in the fair.
Q11. How does this participation support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?
A11. It supports Vision 2030 by expanding non-oil exports, diversifying export destinations, and strengthening regional economic ties. These are key objectives of the Kingdom’s economic reform agenda.
Q12. What benefits does the fair offer to Saudi companies?
A12. The fair provides a platform for Saudi companies to showcase products, meet potential buyers, negotiate agreements, and gain international business experience. It also helps them build long-term commercial relationships.
Q13. What benefits does the fair offer to Iraq?
A13. Iraq benefits from access to high-quality Saudi products, potential investment, and expertise transfer. The presence of Saudi firms can also support reconstruction and development efforts in various sectors.
Q14. How has the Arar border crossing affected Saudi-Iraqi trade?
A14. The reopening of the Arar border crossing in 2020 enabled the resumption of direct overland trade, reducing transportation costs and delivery times. It has been a key factor in growing bilateral trade volumes.
Q15. What types of products are showcased at the Saudi pavilion?
A15. The pavilion features displays of metals and metal products, processed foods and beverages, electrical machinery and equipment, and various consumer goods. These reflect the leading export categories to Iraq.
Q16. How does Saudi Exports support national companies in international markets?
A16. Saudi Exports provides export financing, insurance solutions, market intelligence, and facilitates participation in trade fairs. It works to boost the competitiveness, quality, and efficiency of Saudi exports.
Q17. What is the significance of the slogan for regional diplomacy?
A17. The slogan frames trade in cultural and historical terms, emphasizing fraternity and shared heritage. It aligns with Saudi Arabia’s approach to regional diplomacy, which prioritizes stability and mutual prosperity.
Q18. Are there opportunities for joint ventures between Saudi and Iraqi companies?
A18. Yes, the fair facilitates business-to-business meetings that can lead to joint ventures, technology transfer, and partnerships in sectors such as construction, food processing, and renewable energy.
Q19. How does this fair fit into broader regional economic trends?
A19. It reflects a regional shift toward greater economic interdependence and diversification. Saudi Arabia’s engagement with Iraq contributes to building a more integrated regional economy that can withstand global volatility.
Q20. What is the expected outcome of Saudi Arabia’s participation in the fair?
A20. The participation is expected to produce new trade agreements, strengthen business ties, and increase Saudi non-oil exports to Iraq. It also reinforces the Kingdom’s reputation as a reliable economic partner in the region.
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