Over 50 speakers confirmed for Automechanika Riyadh Academy

Over 50 industry experts will make presentations and lead conversations on localisation, sustainability and future mobility when Automechanika Riyadh returns to RICEC from 28-30 April 2025. 

With Saudi Arabia contributing 50% of GCC vehicle sales, the Academy will address the challenges and opportunities in this rapidly expanding aftermarket sector

Riyadh, KSA: Automechanika Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s leading regional trade show for the automotive aftermarket industry, has confirmed the event wll highlight and drive forward the event’s role in shaping the future of Saudi Arabia’s automotive aftermarket sector.

Automechanika Ritadh will be staged at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC) and ths seventh edition of the sold-out exhibition will showcase a range of sessions as part of its Conference, addressing how Saudi Arabia is taking strides to localise production and focusing on becoming a regional automotive manufacturing and aftermarket hub.

According to research by Statista, over 600,000 new vehicles registered annually in Saudi Arabia each year, resulting in an ongoing and booming aftermarket sector. With the automotive industry being crucial to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the country aims to produce 700,000 vehicles as part of its economic diversification strategy. 

Following the success of the 2024 edition, Automechanika Academy will deliver cutting-edge insights and facilitate knowledge exchanges across the automotive ecosystem. The three-day conference will bring together government stakeholders, aftermarket leaders, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Electric Vehicle (EV) innovators, and supply chain strategists to address the sector’s most pressing themes and future challenges.

Saudi Arabia’s push to localise vehicle production is fuelling massive growth in the aftermarket sector. With expanding demand driven by growing vehicle fleets, aging cars, an increasing number of female drivers, and technological advancements, the need for reliable, innovative, and sustainable aftermarket services is greater than ever.

Bilal Al Barmawi CEO & Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences

The opening day, held under the theme Localisation and Aftermarket Innovation, will highlight KSA’s vision to becoming a leading regional automotive player, with discussions including the King Salman Automotive Cluster, and its role in Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification. Whilst speakers will include Majid Abdullah Matbouly, Chief Industrial Valley Officer, Emaar, the Economic City, Dr Faisal Al-Kadi, CEO, Al-Kadi Commerce & Industry, and Eng. Aftab Ahmed, Chief Advisor - Automotive Cluster, National Industrial Development Centre, Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources.

Day two will see the focus shift to operational excellence and sustainability, addressing topics such as logistics optimisations, digital tools, ADAS technologies, and e-commerce in parts distribution. Key speakers include Sanel Hodzic, CEO, Cyber Automotive Solutions, and Salman Alsuhaibaney, Founder and CEO, Morni, who will share real-world insights into sustainable, customer-centric models.

The final day will incorporate workshops, from, amongst others, Rudy Shukri, Business Leader & Coach, Tiqani, who will address skills shortages, digital change and aligning business goals with workforce capabilities to ensure long-term industry growth. In addition, other workshops on the day will include Bridging hybrid automotive technology – preparing technicians for advanced hybrid vehicle servicing by Abdullah Ismail Badawi, Technical Instructor, Saudi Japanese Automobile High Institute (SJAHI), where he will take a hard look into hybrid technology and servicing.

The Automechanika Academy has become an important platform for driving forward the conversations surrounding the region’s automotive ecosystem. As Saudi Arabia accelerates its transformation into a manufacturing and mobility hub, the Academy offers a unique opportunity for industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to come together, exchange insights, and shape the future of the aftermarket sector in alignment with Vision 2030.

Aly Hefny, Show Manager, Automechanika Riyadh, Messe Frankfurt Middle East

Following the success of the record-breaking 2024 event, the 2025 edition will expand to five halls, with a total floor space increase of 70% year-over-year, and is expected to accommodate approximately 19,000 visitors.With product areas showcased at Automechanika Riyadh including Parts & Components, Electronics & Systems, Tires & Batteries, Oils & Lubricants, and Accessories & Customising, Diagnostics & Repairs, Body & Paint, and Car Wash & Care.