Automechanika Riyadh, the premier trade event for Saudi Arabia’s automotive aftermarket sector, opened its doors at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The official inauguration was led by Mr. Ajlan Saad Al-Ajlan, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Riyadh Chamber.
This year’s edition features a notable 32% increase in exhibitors compared to last year, according to event organizers. Over 450 companies, including both new and returning Saudi businesses, are participating, highlighting the rapid growth of the local automotive aftermarket industry. Attendance is projected to exceed 19,000 visitors over three days, prompting the expansion of the exhibition space from three to five halls.
Event Highlights and Keynote Addresses
During the opening, Dr. Faisal Al-Kadi, Chief Executive Officer of Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry and a member of the Automechanika Riyadh Advisory Board, delivered a keynote address on current trends and advancements in the regional automotive aftermarket.
Bilal Al Barmawi, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of 1st Arabia, emphasized that this year’s show is the largest and most ambitious to date, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s transformation in line with Vision 2030. Aly Hefny, Show Manager for Automechanika Riyadh at Messe Frankfurt Middle East, noted the record participation from international and local companies, underlining the Kingdom’s growing influence and innovation in the sector.
Automechanika Riyadh Academy and Industry Insights
The Automechanika Riyadh Academy launched with the theme Localisation & Aftermarket Innovation
. Ulf Schulte, Chief Operating Officer of EVIQ, discussed the expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the importance of aftermarket solutions for network efficiency. Mohammed Alsuhaim, Managing Director of the National Automotive & Vehicles Academy, highlighted the significance of targeted training programs to address skill gaps in the evolving automotive industry.
A panel led by Emad Daghreri, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Autobia, and Alisdair Walton, Senior General Manager of Digital Transformation & IT at Abdul Latif Jameel Enterprises, explored ways to boost digital innovation and profitability for aftermarket distributors, focusing on e-commerce integration and data-driven pricing.
Exhibition Scope and Industry Impact
This year’s exhibition covers a wide range of product categories, including:
- Parts and components
- Electronics
- Tires and batteries
- Oils and lubricants
- Accessories
- Diagnostics
- Body and paint
- Car care solutions
Automechanika Riyadh continues to serve as a key platform for industry growth, collaboration, and innovation in Saudi Arabia’s automotive aftermarket sector.
