UAE and Saudi Arabia set to emerge as global trade ‘super-connector hubs’

This was told by experts on the WEF summit in Davos on Thursday

Saudi Arabia is poised to emerge as a «super-connector hub,» leveraging the ongoing global trade disruptions to its advantage, experts stated during the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday.

Henadi Al-Saleh, chair of the board of directors at Agility, a global leader in supply chain services, emphasized the pivotal role of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) substantial infrastructure investments in driving this transformation.

«In recent years, the level of activity, particularly in cargo, has grown exponentially,» Al-Saleh remarked.

She added, «When I look at the GCC, where we’ve invested in warehouses, and specifically at Saudi Arabia and the Emirates, two of our key platforms, they are well on their way to becoming super-connector hubs. These nations are doubling down on infrastructure investments, and the level of activity is only increasing.»

Al-Saleh also underscored the importance of digitalization in this evolution, stating, «In a time of significant uncertainty, having clarity and understanding—even amid change—provides visibility. With digital tools, I know the rules and how I need to adjust.»

She noted, «This is a critical factor enabling these super hubs to thrive.»

Although global trade has seen consistent growth since the end of the pandemic, industry disruptions caused by socioeconomic and political factors persist.

Experts warned that U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term could intensify these disruptions, with his administration potentially introducing trade tariffs on several exporting nations.

Chile’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alberto van Klaveren, acknowledged these challenges but also highlighted emerging opportunities.

«There are possibilities. Some economies are opening up. We’ve signed the CEPA Agreement (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) with the Emirates and are interested in Saudi Arabia,» he said.

Van Klaveren stressed that diversification is crucial not only in export markets but also in the range of goods and services traded, underscoring its importance in navigating the evolving global trade landscape.