Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) hosted Malaysian King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar at its Alsalam Aerospace Industries facility in Riyadh, marking a significant milestone in defense cooperation between the two nations. The high-profile visit, which took place on November 5, 2025, showcased Saudi Arabia’s growing capabilities in the aerospace sector and highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to international defense partnerships.
Strategic Defense Partnership
The Malaysian monarch’s visit to SAMI, accompanied by Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb, underscores the deepening bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia in the defense sector. SAMI CEO Eng. Thamer Al-Muhid and senior company officials welcomed the delegation, providing comprehensive insights into the company’s advanced aerospace capabilities.
As a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), SAMI represents a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to develop its domestic defense industry and reduce reliance on foreign imports. The company’s Alsalam Aerospace Industries division has emerged as a regional leader in aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.
Advanced Aerospace Capabilities
During the tour, King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar received detailed briefings on SAMI’s state-of-the-art facilities and technological capabilities. The presentation highlighted the company’s comprehensive MRO services and its crucial role in localizing aerospace industries within the Kingdom. These capabilities demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s progress in developing a sophisticated domestic defense sector.
The facility visit showcased SAMI’s advanced manufacturing processes, quality control systems, and technical expertise that position it as a leading player in the regional aerospace industry. This expertise spans across various aviation sectors, including military aircraft maintenance and commercial aerospace services.
International Cooperation and Growth
The Malaysian King’s visit represents a significant opportunity for enhanced defense collaboration between the two Muslim-majority nations. Both countries share common interests in strengthening their defense capabilities and developing their respective aerospace sectors.
This high-level engagement also reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global defense industry and its ability to attract international partnerships. The visit has opened new avenues for potential collaboration in technology transfer, training programs, and joint aerospace initiatives.
Vision 2030 Alignment
SAMI’s development aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives of localizing 50% of military equipment spending and developing the Kingdom’s defense industrial base. The successful hosting of the Malaysian King demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s progress in establishing itself as a global defense industry hub, contributing to economic diversification and creating high-skilled employment opportunities for Saudi citizens. This visit reinforces the Kingdom’s position as an emerging leader in the global aerospace sector and highlights its commitment to fostering international partnerships that support its ambitious national development goals.