Saudi businesses eager to invest in food, beverage, real estate sectors

Saudi Arabia's visiting business delegation has expressed strong interest in investing in Bangladesh's food, beverage and real estate sectors as the three-day Saudi Arabia-Bangladesh Business Summit 2025 ended yesterday.

The Saudi Arabia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SABCCI) confirmed the development at a press conference held in the capital.

Speaking at the press conference, SABCCI President Ashraful Haq Chowdhury said the Saudi delegation had visited various companies to assess the Bangladesh market for potential investments.

"Riyadh is seeking diversified investment areas, with priority in food and beverage, IT, healthcare and energy sectors," he said.

Dr Khalid Al Harbi, a professor and healthcare sector specialist from Saudi Arabia's Al-Tayyibah University who was part of the delegation, said they saw significant opportunities for enhancing cooperation and trade in various fields between Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh.

"Many Saudi businessmen work with Bangladeshi labourers and are interested in leveraging the work ethic and innovative strategies of the Bangladeshi people to contribute to the production sectors in both Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh," Al Harbi said.

He also emphasised that Saudi Arabia has a specific need for skilled manpower from Bangladesh, particularly in the healthcare sector, with a focus on nursing services.

The Saudi businesses also thanked Bangladeshi nationals for their continued contribution to the Saudi labour market and the development of the Kingdom.

SABCCI Vice President Ahmed Yusuf Walid and Pran-RFL Group Director Uzma Chowdhury also spoke.

The three-day business summit, which began on Monday at the Sheraton Dhaka in Banani, concluded yesterday.